CHIKAGO CBS: November 2016

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Bulls’ Bench Providing Plenty Of Reason For Worry

By Cody Westerlund–

CHICAGO (CBS) — Amid a strong 4-2 road trip recently, a weakness of the Bulls was largely masked amid the good vibes and general success.

That vulnerability revealed itself Wednesday night.

In a 96-90 loss to the Lakers at the United Center, the Bulls saw their bench get outplayed again, this time in spectacular fashion. The five Chicago reserves who saw action — Nikola Mirotic, Isaiah Canaan, Denzel Valentine, Bobby Portis and Jerian Grant — combined to score 16 points on 7-of-25 shooting on a night Los Angeles’ bench scored 56 points. Most noticeably, the bench played the leading role in the Bulls squandering a 14-point lead late in the first quarter.

That continued a recent trend that’s seen Chicago bleed points late in first quarters and/or early in second quarters when the reserves take over. In a recent loss at Denver, the Bulls’ second unit was the primary culprit in a 24-0 run by the Nuggets. Even in a blowout win at Philadelphia last Friday, the lone slump of significance for Chicago came with a reserve-laden group in early.

So there’s reason for worry, even if the Bulls (10-7) won’t admit it.

“Nope, not at all,” Jimmy Butler said when asked if the starters felt an extra burden. “This is a team. They’re going to go through slumps, we’re going to go through slumps. And that’s fine. We just have to find ways to win games, whether our bench is outscoring everybody or whatever it may be. We got to figure out a way to win.”

Added Dwyane Wade: “No, we’re fine. We have enough. We just got to win games like this.”

The bench’s recent struggles have come with two key players out for long stretches. Guard Michael Carter-Williams hasn’t played since Oct. 31, when he suffered a bone bruise in his knee and a bone chip in his left wrist that’s still plaguing him. Forward Doug McDermott — the team’s de facto sixth man — has also now missed seven straight games with a concussion, his second of the season.

So reinforcements could be on the way in a few more weeks. The catch is, Carter-Williams and McDermott may not be suited to fix perhaps the biggest issue: the second unit’s rim protection. When coach Fred Hoiberg has paired big men Bobby Portis and Nikola Mirotic together, the results have usually ranged from poor to disastrous, with opponents constantly getting favorable looks on forays to the hoop.

Entering Tuesday’s game, the two most-used five-man Bulls units that were anchored by the Portis-Mirotic pairing down low had defensive ratings of 111.9 and 145.4. The Lakers then went out and exploited that weakness, outscoring the Bulls, 19-7, in the approximately 5 1/2 minutes Portis and Mirotic played together Wednesday.

Hoiberg has tinkered a bit lately — notably taking Taj Gibson out earlier in the first quarter and getting him in sooner in the second — but disaster has struck so swiftly that the minor adjustments have mattered little. And Hoiberg has been unwilling to turn to big man Cristiano Felicio, a more nimble defender than Portis, who the organization has more of an investment in after taking him in the first round of the 2015 draft.

“I’ve tried to get a couple starters out a little earlier and get them back in there with our second unit,” Hoiberg said. “Again, we’ve gotten some solid minutes from the bench in this early portion of the season. Tonight, obviously we struggled in that area – keep battling, keep fighting.”

In such a team game, there’s more context to this than just the Portis-Mirotic pairing. But with Wade preferring the mid-quarter breaks, his minutes management plan going well and Butler traditionally playing the entire first quarter, the easiest change would seem to come in the big man rotation, not in the backcourt.

For now, as they could directly trace their last two losses to poor bench play, the Bulls are refusing to acknowledge that line of thinking.

“Like I tell everybody each and every day, just do what you do best, just play hard and everything will fall into line, will fall into place,” Butler said. “They’re still getting their rhythm, which is fine. I just want those guys to stay confident, because we need them. It’s a long season, and they’re on this team for a reason.”

Cody Westerlund is a sports editor for CBSChicago.com and covers the Bulls. He’s also the co-host of the @LockedOnBulls podcast, which you can subscribe to on iTunes and Stitcher. Follow him on Twitter @CodyWesterlund.

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DePaul Edges Drake 77-75

CHICAGO (AP) — Eli Cain scored 19 points and DePaul came back from a nine-point halftime deficit to beat Drake 77-75 on Wednesday night.

The Blue Demons (4-1) have won three straight since dropping their second game of the season to Rutgers.

Drake led 38-29 at the half but DePaul chipped away and trailed just 75-73 entering the final minute following a Darrick Wood layup. After a turnover by Drake’s Reed Timmer, Cain hit the game-tying layup and drew the foul on the Bulldogs’ Ore Arogundade. He dispatched the free throw for a 76-75 Blue Demons lead.

Timmer had a final shot to win it for Drake, but his 3-pointer missed at the buzzer.

Brandon Cyrus finished with 14 points and eight boards for DePaul. Wood added 12 points.

Timmer led Drake (1-6) with 18 points. Billy Wampler had 17 for the Bulldogs, who have lost four consecutive games.

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Lakers Come Back To Beat Bulls 96-90

CHICAGO (AP) — Julius Randle made a strong move against Nikola Mirotic for a tiebreaking layup with 45.1 seconds left, and the Los Angeles Lakers held off the Chicago Bulls for a gritty 96-90 victory on Wednesday night.

Randle had 13 points and matched a career high with 20 rebounds as Los Angeles bounced back from an ugly 105-88 loss at New Orleans on Tuesday night. Lou Williams and Jordan Clarkson scored 18 points apiece, and Larry Nance Jr. finished with 12 points and 11 boards.

Randle’s drive and layup gave Los Angeles a 92-90 lead. After Jimmy Butler missed on the other side for Chicago, Williams went 1 for 2 at the line with 20 seconds to go.

Butler then missed another 3 and Randle and Nance combined for three foul shots to help Los Angeles hold on.

Butler went 13 of 15 at the line and finished with 22 points for the Bulls, who were hoping to build on a 4-2 road trip. Dwyane Wade, who was listed as doubtful after getting some dental work on Tuesday, scored 17 points, and Robin Lopez finished with 10 points, nine rebounds and eight blocked shots.

The Bulls used 40 points from Butler to beat the Lakers 118-110 in Los Angeles on Nov. 20. But the Lakers held the Bulls to 35.2 percent shooting in the rematch and enjoyed a 60-46 rebounding advantage.

It was an impressive response from Los Angeles after the team announced before the game that Nick Young was expected to miss two to four weeks would a strained right calf muscle, adding another injury to an already depleted backcourt.

Young was hurt in the first quarter Tuesday night. He had an MRI on Wednesday in Chicago.

“He’s been playing great, such a huge part of what we’ve done so far,” first-year coach Luke Walton said. “Obviously, it’s a big blow to our team and what we’re trying to do, but that’s part of life in the NBA. So we’ll figure it out and keep going forward.”

Los Angeles also was without guard D’Angelo Russell, who missed his sixth straight game due to left knee soreness.

TIP-INS

Lakers: Randle leads the team with five double-doubles this season. He has 39 double-doubles in 99 career games.

Bulls: F Doug McDermott (concussion protocol) missed his seventh consecutive game. “He’s going to see our team doctor tonight and then have a session with our physical therapist tomorrow and we’ll see how he’s doing,” coach Fred Hoiberg said before the game. … Butler has scored 20 or more points in his last 11 games, setting a career high. His previous best was six in a row.

UP NEXT

Lakers: Play another back-to-back when they visit Toronto on Friday night and Memphis on Saturday night.

Bulls: Host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night, and LeBron James pays up after he lost his bet with buddy Wade over the World Series. James is expected to wear a Chicago Cubs uniform before the game.

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Artist Pays Off Debt Of Tragedy, One Painting At A Time

(CBS) — It was as perfect as artist Marjorie Jean Geist imagined.

First came love, then came marriage. And then pregnancy — twins.

But everything changed when she felt what she thought was a nudge, in September. Believing it to be contractions, she hailed an Uber to the hospital. The driver was incredulous.

“He’s like, ‘Okay, you’re having baby? Is this really happening?’” Geist says about the driver. “And I said, ‘I hope not.’”

She hoped not because she was only 19 weeks pregnant.

The twins, Edward and Kevin, didn’t survive. Geist has paid for the losses ever since.

Her sons’ deaths came shortly after she lost her job. Her unpaid medical bills total almost $10,000.

“Sometimes when I look at my husband when he’s sleeping, he looks like Edward,” she says, referring to one of the babies. “His heart was beating for 47 minutes.”

Geist is paying off her debt one ornament at a time. She posted her plan on Facebook – creating individualized ornaments for $55. Your pet. Your home.

The response, she says, has been overwhelming.

Her plan to pay for her loss has blossomed – similar to when she finally got around to planting a rose bush in late October.

“As soon as I plant them four roses bloomed,” Geist says.

Four buds. She had two miscarriages prior to the twins.

“We held your hand for only a short time, a precious gift from God,” Geist says, reading from a poem she penned. “Until we meet again, so brief your stay.”

A friend has set up a Go Fund Me account for Majorie. To inquire about an ornament, she can be reached at artistMJ@yahoo.com.

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Trump To Deliver Good News To Indianapolis: Nearly 1,000 Industrial Jobs Won’t Leave

(CBS) — President-elect Donald Trump was scheduled Thursday to appear at the Carrier furnace plant in Indianapolis for a kind of victory lap — not for winning the White House, but for saving nearly 1,000 factory jobs that were headed to Mexico.

Carrier announced nine months ago that it would relocate these good-paying union jobs to Monterey, Mexico by 2019 — saving millions in the process.

Carrier workers in Indiana can earn up to $26 an hour, while the company would have paid Mexican workers just $3 an hour in Mexico.

During the campaign, Trump promised to force Carrier to remain in Indianapolis or punish the company if they defied him.

The threats may have worked. Trump reached out directly to the CEO of Carrier’s parent firm, United Technology.

Vice president-elect Mike Pence, who’s still governor of Indiana, offered what’s being called modest state subsidies.

The Obama White House acknowledged it’s a clear-cut victory for Trump before he’s even taken office.

The overall financial details are yet to be released, and the deal doesn’t save all the jobs. Around 400 will be eliminated, but it’s still quite a holiday present for the beleaguered workers.

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Advocates Plead For Leniency As War Veteran With Drug Conviction Faces Deportation

(CBS) – A war veteran from Chicago who served two tours in Afghanistan is now facing deportation.

On Thursday, a judge will decide his fate.

CBS 2’s Audrina Bigos reports on the fight for him to stay here — and the criminal record that’s getting in the way.

After 9/11, Miguel Perez embraced the Army’s ideals: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and courage. But because he was born in Mexico and brought to the U.S. as a child, his commitment came with a catch: If ever convicted of a felony, he would be deported.

“He made the mistake of selling some cocaine on one occasion to an undercover officer. He was convicted, served his time,” Perez attorney Chris Bergin says.

Perez self-medicated while suffering from PTSD, he says. Perez served his seven-year sentence, and his advocates say he is rehabilitated and ready to come home.

“This war veteran should not be deported to a country that he knows little about. He is, for all practical purposes, an American who has served with distinction,” Cook County Commissioner Jesus “Chuy” Garcia says.

This last minute plea to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement also comes with a prayer for the Army veteran who served two tours in Afghanistan.

“If they deport him,” retired Sgt. Maj. John Adams says, “My valor’s coming off. I’m never putting the uniform on again.”

Perez will face a judge here in Chicago Thursday for a final decision on his deportation to Mexico.

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Two Chicago Medical Professionals Return From Syrian Refugee Camp

(CBS) – Two Chicago area women — Arshia Wajid and Tracy Ibgui — have been back from their work in a Syrian refugee camp for less than a week.

It has changed them, CBS 2’s Dana Kozlov reports.

The two medical professionals went to the Jordan camp for different reasons but with one goal: to help the tens of thousands of men, women and children living inside those barbed wires. The children, in particular, touched them.

“They wanted to be lifted up, they wanted to be hugged, then kissed, literally carried in your arms,” Wajib, a hospital administrator, says.

Both worked in the camp’s medical clinic. Ibgui, a nurse at Loyola University Medical Center, recalls one woman:

“I’d asked her if she’d ever had a stroke. Her answer was, ‘No, that was when my face was damaged in the bomb.’”

Both say the Zaatari camp is one of the better ones. It’s a refuge from the crisis across the border, but not an escape.

“I’m glad they are away from the bombing but they also have to find hope in each day to keep moving on and right now there doesn’t seem to be an end to this war,” Ibgui says.

Both women are also members of the social media campaign #standwithaleppo. The group’s message has already reached more than 40 million people around the world.

They hope the world starts paying more attention.

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Organization Helps Veterans Furnish Their Homes

(CBS) — A Downers Grove organization, celebrating its 30th anniversary, is helping struggling families and veterans in Illinois make their houses feel like homes.

Through partnerships with several furniture companies, Sharing Connections provides things like beds, kitchen tables and sofas to those in need.

Deb Rickert, the organization’s CEO and the mother of two veterans, says many of the people they serve have just returned from service and struggle to adjust.

“I’ve watched it,” Rickert says. “I’ve watched it with the veterans I’ve worked with, I’ve watched it with my own sons. It’s a different world these days.”

Rickert says providing them with proper furnishings is just a small way of saying thank you.

“There’s just never enough we can do for our veterans,” Rickert says. “I love the fact that when they come to us, we’re able to really, fully support them and give them what they need.”

The organization provided furniture and other items to nearly 7,000 Illinois residents last year — a number Rickert says they hope to increase by the end of this year.

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Bears’ Braverman, Wilson Want Their Potential To Show

By Chris Emma–

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) — Once upon a time, the Bears’ future at receiver seemed so clear — at least on paper.

Bears general manager Ryan Pace believed that Alshon Jeffery and Kevin White could form a dynamic duo, and that Eddie Royal would become the sure hands in the slot. Football isn’t played on paper, and none of Pace’s plans at receiver have come to fruition. Jeffery’s status is unknown, White’s abilities after two surgeries unclear and Royal not living up to his contract.

Searching for answers in this difficult season, the Bears are looking to a pair of seventh-round picks in whom they hold belief. While four drafts separate Marquess Wilson, 24, and Daniel Braverman, 23, the two targets are one in the same, looking to prove worthy of an NFL future.

“To be allowed to really join them on game day, it’s a blessing,” said Braverman, who was promoted from the practice squad on Tuesday.

Braverman was selected in the seventh round of this past April’s draft. He came to Chicago from Western Michigan as a small-school standout with plenty to prove. At just 5-foot-10, he would have to find a way to stand out.

Work is routine for Braverman, who is the very last player off the practice field nearly ever day. He’s constantly working the Jugs machine, catching passes. Upon returning to the locker room, Braverman grabs his iPad and studies the film from practice.

“He works his tail off, he works hard,” said Bears offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains, who feels Braverman fits the mold of a Wes Welker or Danny Amendola. “There’s something to the kid.

Why does he do it? What drives Braverman to go the extra mile?

“Just to not let any stones go unturned,” he answered. “When I’m done with all of this, I want to have no regrets.”

Preparing is just the beginning of the challenge. Braverman must go out and prove himself, beginning with opportunities on Sunday at Soldier Field. He expects to get a chance in the Bears’ offense.

Wilson knows well to appreciate such a chance. He’s missed 30 games in four NFL seasons — nearly two full seasons of work due to various injuries. Wilson broke his foot this offseason and was forced to the PUP list, activated for Week 11 against the Giants.

Wilson was selected in the seventh round of the 2013 NFL Draft, that after his stock dropped following a controversial premature departure from Washington State that stemmed from claims of “physical, emotional and verbal abuse” from head coach Mike Leach. He entered the NFL as an unknown. Four years later, that remains the case.

Confidence for Wilson is high after a career-best contest on Sunday, an eight-catch performance that brought 125 yards and a touchdown. When the Bears attempted to cap their comeback late in the fourth quarter, quarterback Matt Barkley was looking Wilson’s way.

“You’re a receiver — every receiver wants the ball,” Wilson said. “It’s kind of like a race, who gets open faster. We all have to be ready for that ball at any time.”

Wilson wants the ball. It brings the chance to show his potential in the NFL.

Curiosity still looms for Wilson’s future. Perhaps he was a steal in the seventh round. That was Phil Emery’s pick. Pace is the one who must make the evaluations as to whether Wilson is part of his team’s future. As for Wilson, there’s no looking back.

“I’m here now,” he said. “That’s four years ago. I just play the game. I play it angry, I play it happy — whatever it takes just to do what I can on the field.”

Ideally, the Bears would have a winning record entering Week 13, and the arsenal of Jeffery, White and Royal would be producing eye-popping numbers. That’s what Pace envisioned when he constructed this roster.

However, the Bears haven’t experienced much ideal during this season. Now, they are forced to look for their future. At receiver, that means identifying the potential of two seventh-round picks that could stick on the roster.

It’s plenty clear to Braverman and Wilson what’s at stake.

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.

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2 Brothers Found Dead In Lockport Were Shot: Autopsies

(STMW) — Two brothers who were found dead at the site of a townhouse under construction Tuesday morning in southwest suburban Lockport were shot, autopsies have found.

David Ceja-Sanchez, 35, and Marco Ceja-Sanchez, 37, each suffered a single fatal gunshot wound, the Will County coroner’s office announced Wednesday evening.

The Aurora residents were discovered when their coworkers showed up at the work site about 6:30 a.m. in the 16100 block of Coneflower Drive, according to Lockport police and the coroner’s office.

Their deaths are being investigated as a double homicide, authorities said. No one was in custody.

The Will-Grundy Major Crimes Task Force is assisting with the investigation.

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Hatchimals, The Hot Toy This Holiday Season, But Hard To Find

CHICAGO (CBS) — If you have not heard of them, it is probably too late to get one for the holidays

Hatchimals are the hot toy this holiday season, but finding one will be a challenge. WBBM’s Nancy Harty reports.

“It’s sort of like a robotics pet, or artificial intelligence little pet that you hatch out of an egg shell,” said Katherine McHenry, Building Blocks Toy Store.

She knew this spring Hatchimals would be big sellers, but did not realize how big. She said her Building Blocks toy stores in Lakeview and Wicker Park sold out within days of what, so far, was her only shipment. She said that was almost a month ago, but customers keep asking for them.

“People telling us that they should be at the top of the list because they are good customers and what not,” McHenry said. “Our issue is not that our list is too long, it’s just that we don’t have the product.”

McHenry said she thinks kids interest in the interactive toy is genuine, and not just because the toy is so difficult to find.

CBS 2’s Marissa Bailey shopped around to see if any local stores had stock of the Hatchimals and how much it will cost one to successful find one.

Online, Target said the Rosemont location has some in stock. CBS 2 checked out their stock and the shelves were empty. The store was sold out.

Hatchimals retail for $55-99, but retailers and resellers have been listing them for a lot more.

“It’s a good value for the $60, if you can find it for $60,” said “I think they are selling for $200, $300, $400, $500, $600, if you can find it,” said Mary Couzin, Chicago toy expert.

Walmart had them online for almost $300. Montgomery Ward had them for less than $100, if you wanted it in time for Easter.

So what is the big deal with these eggs?

“The children grow with it,” Couzin said. “Learn how to nuture. You want to hatch this little baby bird out of its egg, but then you can teach it, you can train it, to teach and dance and move and play games. It’s a lot of fun.”

CBS 2 asked our toy expert about shopping at smaller toy stores to find them.

When asked if shopping at certain stores on certain dates and maybe getting to know personnel at the store would better one’s odds in finding a Hatchimal, Couzin responded, “I do know the owners of some stores want to get to know their customers and will set aside things for their customers.”

CBS 2 spoke to one Target location who said to call every morning around 7 a.m. to see if there are any on the truck that day.

Toys “R” Us told CBS 2 they get multiple shipments in each week and have Hatchimals on each load.

K-Mart is sold out and said they do not plan to restock them.

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Former School Choir Director Resigns After Arrest

(CBS) — An investigation into possible misconduct by a Crystal Lake Central High School choir director leads to charges — and his resignation.

CBS 2’s Suzanne Le Mignot reports.

Justin Hubly, 35, was arrested and charged with two counts of battery and one count of unlawful delivery of alcohol to a minor. Crystal Lake Police say some of the incidents, involving former students, happened inside his Crystal Lake home.

“That’s real disturbing to find out that that’s my neighbor,” Nicole Boyer said Wednesday.

Hubley is also the president of the Community High School District 155 teachers union. In a statement, school district officials say they are cooperating with authorities.

Crystal Lake Police say a number of former students are still being interviewed. Some, who are out of state, are being interviewed by other agencies, assisting in the investigation.

Police say as the investigation continues and more charges could be coming. Right now, Hubly is out on bond.

His next court date is Dec. 27.

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Ready For Chicago, 49ers’ Colin Kaepernick Stands Hopeful In Goal For Social Change

By Chris Emma–

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) — By simply taking a knee during the national anthem as a form of protest, 49ers quarterback Colin Kapernick inspired a movement.

Reactions to Kaepernick’s action have ranged, but that was his intention — to raise awareness for social injustices. Speaking to Bears beat reporters through teleconference on Wednesday, Kaepernick outlined his goal.

“For me, I want to try to help create change and also help empower other people, other organizations that are doing the work to continue to do the work, and people who aren’t to get involved and help create that change, because this isn’t something that’s going to be changed by one person or a couple people,” Kaepernick said. “It’s going to take communities coming together creating the change that needs to be made and the country coming together and creating the change.

“There’s always going to be backlash when you fight for different ideologies and different beliefs and different rights. That has been proven throughout history. For me, it’s not something I’m concerned with. I knew that backlash was going to come when I initially took this stance, and I know it will continue to come.”

Kaepernick and the 49ers, who are 1-10, travel to Chicago this weekend to face the 2-9 Bears. Subplots for this contest will focus on two of the NFL’s worst records and the likely high draft picks to come. The Bears could use their top pick to draft a quarterback. Meanwhile, Kaepernick has re-emerged as the 49ers’ starter after beginning the season on the bench.

Strong recent play from Kaepernick has come during a season that will be remembered for him sparking a call for change. Kaepernick first began taking a knee during a national anthem in the preseason, which led other players around the league to join him.

49ers coach Chip Kelly admires Kaepernick’s ability to compartmentalize football with his fight for social change.

“Colin’s done a really good job of just understanding that when he comes to work, it’s work,” Kelly said. “He keeps that separate from what we do here. It’s not an issue in the locker room, it’s not an issue with the team. I think he’s been very professional with his approach of everything we’ve asked him to do since he’s been here.”

Added Kaepernick: “For me, there’s a time and a place for everything. When the focus is football, that’s what I’m focused on. When I’m asked questions on social justice or human rights, that’s the topic I’m talking about in that moment. It’s really being able to live in the moment and being able to know when it’s appropriate to talk about these things and go to work on these things.”

Last Sunday, Kaepernick faced his most hostile atmosphere in Miami, in light of comments made of Fidel Castro, the former Cuban dictator who died late Friday night. Miami boasts a large Cuban population, much of which defected to South Florida shores from the country.

Soldier Field on Sunday could perhaps offer many emotions, especially given Chicago’s violence issues and the relationship with local police. Kaepernick’s activism extends to Chicago, which included a donation to the local Black Youth Project. He also plans to become further educated on ways in which he can make a difference in Chicago.

Kaepernick’s movement has drawn many emotions this season. His hope is that taking a knee can lead to making a difference.

“Ultimately,” he said, “it’s going to take a lot of people, a lot of effort, a lot of time to create the true change that needs to happen.”

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.

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Bulls’ Dwyane Wade (Tooth) Will Play Against Lakers

By Cody Westerlund–

CHICAGO (CBS) — After being deemed questionable, Bulls guard Dwyane Wade said he will play Tuesday evening’s game against the Lakers, a day after he had root work done on a tooth.

Wade called it an “emergency” tooth procedure after a cap busted on one of his teeth.

Wade has only missed one game this season, resting on the latter end of a back-to-back when Chicago won at Los Angeles on Nov. 20.

Wade is averaging 18.9 points on 44.7 percent shooting this season.

Bulls wing Doug McDermott will sit out Tuesday night, missing his seventh straight game with a concussion.

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Cubs Co-Owner Is Trump Pick For Deputy Commerce Secretary

What a month it’s been for Todd Ricketts.

Just weeks after his cubs win the World Series, President-elect Donald Trump taps him to be the deputy commerce secretary.

CBS 2’s Jim Williams takes a closer look at the second in command of the Trump Administration’s business team.

Back when Trump appeared to be a long shot for the presidency, Ricketts was a Trump delegate at the Republican Convention and a Trump fundraiser.

The President-elect’s nominee for deputy commerce department secretary, co-owner of the Cubs, was featured in the CBS television show “Undercover Boss.”

Todd Ricketts is the son TD Ameritrade founder Joe Ricketts. The younger Ricketts is himself an entrepreneur, an owner of North Shore bike shops, among other business interests.

On Wednesday, Mayor Emanuel says he has policy disagreements with the conservative Ricketts but hopes a Chicagoan in the Trump Administration will be good for the city.

“I will worry, no matter what. That said, it’s always good to have people you know who have a relationship, and some link to either your city, project or they know of your work,” the mayor said.

This latest development is a change from when, early this year, family patriarch Joe Ricketts contributed to an anti-Trump political action committee and Trump threatened retaliation.

“I’ll start taking ads telling them what a rotten job they’re doing with the Chicago Cubs,” Trump said previously.

Quite a change since then: The Cubs won the World Series and Todd Ricketts will be in the Trump Administration.

Ricketts’ brother is the Republican governor of Nebraska. Sister Laura was enthusiastic Hillary Clinton supporter.

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Growing Power Launches A Fresh Market On Wheels For South And West Sides

CHICAGO (CBS) — A retired CTA bus has been given new life as it brings much needed access to quality food into Chicago’s food deserts. CBS 2’s Vince Gerasole hopped on board.

Making its way around the bend is a produce market on wheels. From its plentiful supply of locally grown greens and other vegetables, to its recipe demonstrations, it’s a welcome site in the food deserts it serves.

“There is so much lack of nutrition in the neighborhood because they just don’t have access to fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Napolian Harding from the South Side.

It is a converted CTA bus, making its debut on the road Wednesday, as the second market on wheels for the non-profit growing power.

“There are people in the city who don’t really get how inaccessible food is in some parts,” said Fresh Roberson from Growing Power.

“All the greens are coming from our operations here in Chicago,” said Erika Allen, Growing Power.

On seven small urban farms inside the city, Growing Power plants and harvests the fresh foods it sells to people who need it most.

“We are real urban farmers trying to create a food system that doesn’t exist yet,” Allen said.

Growing Power’s mission caught the attention of Chicago newcomer, the upscale salad chain Sweet Greens, which helped finance the purchase of the bus, and whose employees worked on the farm for a few days.

“There isn’t one silver bullet that will change the food system it’s a combination of everyone’s efforts,” said Nicolas Jammet, Sweet Greens.

And the people on the bus can tell you, bringing healthy food to neglected neighborhoods can nourish the body and the soul.

Growing Power calls its mobile markets, Fresh Moves.

Operating since last year, they currently make 28 stops in ten of the city’s food deserts on the south and west sides. This latest addition to its fleet will increase the number of stops and how long they can remain in each neighborhood.

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Karen Lewis Not Pleased With Trump’s Pick For Education Secretary

CHICAGO (CBS) — The head of Chicago’s Teachers Union is far from pleased about president-elect Trump’s pick for education secretary.

Trump plans to add charter school advocate, Betsy Devos to his administration.

Teachers Union President, Karen Lewis is concerned Devos might try to override union contract agreements that put a cap on the number of charter schools.

“Don’t ask me why they picked her,” Lewis said. “I know know who put her name on the list, but she’s a nightmare.”

Lewis said the Obama Administration’s Department of Education was far from a walk in the park and vowed to fight against bad policies.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fMOZOv

Couple Suspected In Puppy Theft Hit Beauty Shop A Day Earlier: Joliet Police

(CBS) — Last week, we told you about a puppy stolen from a Joliet pet shop.

Police in the southwest suburbs now believe those responsible are behind a series of robberies in the area.

CBS 2’s Sandra Torres explains.

Caught on camera — twice. Joliet police believe these two individuals are behind a series of robberies in the area.

One picture, taken last Tuesday, comes from surveillance cameras inside a beauty store in Joliet. Some $1,400 worth of makeup was stolen, police say.

The next day, the same two individuals were caught on camera stealing an 11-week-old Shih Tzu puppy from the Furry Babies store at Louis Joliet Mall.

This surveillance image shows a couple Joliet police believe may be responsible for a series of thefts. (Surveillance Image/Joliet Police)

The latest news is a relief to pet store owner Ana Soskic, who has been blasting the surveillance images on social media, hoping someone will recognize the suspects. The dog is worth an estimated $3,000, but Soskic says she’s worried about the puppy’s welfare.

“It’s very sad, stressful. We are really worried about the puppy and just want to make sure we get her back safe,” she says.

The owner of the pet shop is offering a cash reward for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible.

The couple in the surveillance picture may have been involved in as many as four robberies in the span of a week, Joliet police say. They are working with neighboring police departments.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gHpxhS

More Illinois Residents Sign Up For ‘Obamacare’ Plans

CHICAGO (AP) — Officials say more than 68,000 Illinoisans have selected health plans using the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace, up nearly 1,400 compared to the same time last year.

The sign-ups are happening as President-elect Donald Trump and Republican leaders in Congress discuss repealing the law known as “Obamacare.” It’s unclear what might replace the law if they do repeal it.

Meanwhile, open enrollment for HealthCare.gov began Nov. 1 and continues through Jan. 31. People must enroll by Dec. 15 if they want their coverage to start Jan. 1.

The marketplace policies are the only way some people who aren’t insured through their jobs can get government tax credits to help bring down the cost.

Officials say many Illinois enrollees can find plans with a monthly premium of less than $75.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fSBwrF

Suspect ID’d In Fatal Shooting Of Railroad Security Guard In Harvey

(CBS) — Police in south suburban Harvey are identifying the suspect they say is responsible for the death of a security officer over the weekend.

A Harvey spokesperson says the suspect is Rashad Williams, 24, of East Hazel Crest. Police were expected to hold a news conference this evening, to ask the public’s help.

Prosecutors approved an arrest warrant Wednesday afternoon.

Security guard Tyrone Hardin, 38, of Riverdale was fatally shot Saturday evening when a suspect in a stolen-car investigation crashed a vehicle near 159th and Park. The suspect encountered Hardin, who was working as a Canadian National Railroad security guard, and shot him in the abdomen before stealing his vehicle, authorities say.

Hardin later died at the hospital.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fSsjQ1

Lawmakers Ask Illinois Governor To Resume Contract Talks

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Nearly three dozen Illinois legislators of both political stripes are asking Gov. Bruce Rauner to resume contract negotiations with the state’s largest public-employee union.

The lawmakers said Wednesday the issue is crucial to the struggling state.

Decatur Democratic Rep. Sue Scherer says “nothing happens if you’re not at the table.”

Republican Rauner ended talks last winter with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees state council. A state labor board sided with Rauner this month that talks were at “impasse.”
That means the governor can impose his terms.

He did that a second time Wednesday in announcing an employee drug and alcohol testing plan.

AFSCME says in a statement it will talk. Rauner spokeswoman Catherine Kelly says the two sides should cooperate on implementing the governor’s provisions.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gm8dyy

NFL Picks Week 13: Lions Spring Upset On Saints While Steelers Stop Giants’ Streak

Bryan Altman

A wise man once said “two out of three ain’t bad.”

Ok, it was definitely Meatloaf who said it, but the sentiment totally still works.

On Thanksgiving (hopefully yours was lovely) we were treated to three football games, two of which were very good. One was very bad.

Sure, the Colts and the Steelers ruined our turkey day trifecta, but, thankfully we still had some great Sunday football games to get the charred taste of the final Thanksgiving Day game out of our mouths.

Let’s look back at last week’s results.

Week 12’s results

ATS (Against The Spread) Record – 9-6 (Season Record – 85-88-4)

Straight Up – 9-6 (Season Record – 98-76-2)

Locks of the Week – 4-3 (Season Record – 36-29-1)

Again, we’re trending in a positive direction and the .500 mark against the spread is in sight. Let’s get it.

As always, here’s how we’ll break all of the games down.

No way we can lose – locks of the week: As you can guess, these will be the stone-cold locks of the week. The games that I’m so confident about that I’d put my life’s savings on them if I had a life’s savings to wager.

Feeling pretty… pretty good: Not quite willing to bet the farm on this batch, but as Mr. Larry David would say, I’m feeling pretty… pretty good about these games.

Heads or Tails: These are your true toss ups: they can go one way or another and you should pick with caution even after heeding my expert advice.

All spreads courtesy of CBS Sports

(10-1) Dallas Cowboys @ (6-5) Minnesota Vikings (+3.5) – Thursday, 8:25 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Vikings

Level Of Confidence – Feeling pretty… pretty good

As hard as it is to bet against the Cowboys the way they’re rolling right now, I think it’s a must on Thursday night.

First of all, the home dog on Thursday night is always a good play, and in this case you have a desperate home dog with a dominant defense that has a history of keeping games close.

On top of that, if you’re looking for one trouble spot for the Cowboys in 2016 it’s in the QB pressures/sacks department. One of the downfalls of the Vikings since their 5-0 start has been the relentless pressure teams have been able to put on Sam Bradford, which the Cowboys may well be able to do with some blitz packages throughout the game. But, the Cowboys are tied for 25th in the league with just 20 sacks on the year, so Bradford may have more time to dissect the Cowboys’ secondary — especially if they can find some semblance of a run game with Jerick McKinnon and Matt Asiata.

I like the Vikings to spring the upset and keep their playoff hopes alive while subsequently keeping the NFC East playoff race somewhat intriguing as we head down the home stretch of the 2016 regular season.

No Way We Can Lose — Locks Of The Week

(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

(4-7) Los Angeles Rams @ (9-2) New England Patriots (-13) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Patriots

Sure, things change from week to week in the NFL. A team that wasn’t competitive a week prior against an inferior foe, could, in theory, come out the next week and give a superior one a run for its money.

We’ve seen it many, many times before.

You will not see it this week.

The Rams’ defense was absolutely abused by the Saints’ offense and I can’t see any way the Patriots don’t grab copy Sean Payton’s playbook from that game to a ‘T’ in order to easily dispatch St. Louis.

This should be a laugher.

(5-6) Philadelphia Eagles @ (3-7-1-) Cincinnati Bengals (+1) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Eagles

It didn’t look like it on Monday night, but the Eagles actually do have a good defense. They’ve been a good unit for most of the year and one bad outing — albeit, at the worst possible time — against one of the best to ever do it in Aaron Rodgers and a desperate Packers team, doesn’t change that.

I’m expecting a big bounce-back performance from Philly on the defensive side of the ball and think that the Eagles can find some success running the ball against the Bengals, who rank 28th in yards allowed on the ground this year. That should help take some pressure off of Carson Wentz and allow him to get back on track.

Eagles by a touchdown.

(6-4-1) Washington Redskins @ (4-6-1) Arizona Cardinals (-2.5) – Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Redskins

It’s been a maddening season for the Arizona Cardinals and head coach Bruce Arians, who came into the year as NFC Super Bowl favorites and now are on the cusp of falling three games under .500 with a loss to the Redskins.

Unfortunately for the Cards, I think that’s exactly what happens this week.

First of all, the -2.5 line feels more like a legacy line than anything else; one that’s based more on who the Cardinals should be rather than who they are.

The Redskins are a good team and I don’t think you can say the same about the Cardinals in 2016.

(4-7) Carolina Panthers @ (7-3-1-) Seattle Seahawks (-7) – Sunday, 8:30 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Seahawks

Just when you think the Panthers have finally found their footing, they go and pull something like they did in Oakland last weekend.

Yeah, Cam Newton getting a TD against anybody is a tempting play, but the Seahawks are going to be out for blood after a humiliating road defeat to the Tampa Bay Bucs last week.

The Panthers’ struggles continue and the Seahawks take care of business at home.

(5-6) Indianapolis Colts @ (3-8) New York Jets (+1.5) – Monday, 8:30 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Jets

I can’t believe I’m picking the Jets.

I. Can’t. Believe. I’m. Picking. The. Jets.

Andrew Luck or not, the Colts are bad. The Jets are bad too, but I think they’ll win here for two reasons:

1. God forbid they attempt to get a good draft pick in a lost season.

2. To validate Todd Bowles’ decision to start Ryan Fitzpatrick so we never get to see whether Bryce Petty can actually play quarterback or not.

Reasons they might actually lose:

1. Because I picked them.

LOCK IT IN! (ducks).

Feeling Pretty… Pretty Good

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

(7-4) Denver Broncos @ (2-9) Jacksonville Jaguars (+5) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS – Jaguars

Straight Up – Broncos

I said it last week (and I was right) the Jaguars don’t know how to win games yet, but they sure know how to keep them close.

I don’t exactly have a preponderance of evidence at my disposal to back this claim up, but this feels like a game that’s going to be decided in the last minute one way or the other.

I feel like I’ve been pretty good to you guys in terms of providing at least some form of logic or reasoning behind my picks in 2016, but I’m going with my gut here (which is still protruding from Thanksgiving a week ago, if you must know).

Broncos pull it out, but Jags keep it close.

(1-10) San Francisco 49ers @ (2-9) Chicago Bears (-2.5) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up –

Nothing to see here. Please, disperse. I repeat, nothing to see here.

Matt Barkley showed some poise and promise that I don’t think many expected to see against a tough Titans team, so maybe he’s worth seeing against a decent 49ers pass defense, but that’s about it.

Ok, if you’re twisting my arm for another 100 words, here you go: both coaches have actually done admirable jobs with their respective teams, believe it or not. John Fox and Chip Kelly have both gotten their clubs to play hard week in and week out despite vastly inadequate rosters by most NFL standards and deserve praise for it.

Otherwise, this is a battle for the basement.

I think the Bears get the job done at home and Barkley notches his first career victory as a starter.

(6-5) Houston Texans @ (5-6) Green Bay Packers (-4.5) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Packers

Brock Osweiler said all of the right things after his abysmal, three interception performance last Sunday against the San Diego Chargers, but that doesn’t change the fact that he’s been largely unable to do all of the right things on the field when it counts in 2016.

I’ve made a living picking against the Packers the last few weeks and I still think they’re a middle of the road team this year, but I think they get the win here.

Osweiler and the Texans’ offense has been awful and there’s no reason to believe they can come into Lambeau Field and take advantage of a Packers defense that’s ripe for the picking.

I think Rodgers finds a way to put up some points against the Texans’ defense and Green Bay gets back to .500 with a big win over the Texans.

(6-5) Buffalo Bills @ (9-2) Oakland Raiders (-3) – Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Bills

My theory last week stands: I still think the Raiders — as good of a team as they might very well be — have gotten away with wins more often than they should have the last few weeks.

Eventually, it’s going to cost them, and I think it’ll happen this week.

While the Cowboys rake in all of the accolades for their stellar offensive line and running game, it’s actually the Bills who have the best rushing attack in the league. Sure, they only lead the Cowboys in yards per game on the ground by .1 — 157.4 to Dallas’ 157.3, but they do it on far fewer rushing attempts and at a much higher clip per carry (5.3 yards per carry compared to 4.8 yards per carry).

They also lead the league in rushing TDs with 20 and all of that bodes extremely well when facing off against a team that has one of the worst rushing defenses in the NFL.

The Bills, unfathomably, haven’t won in Oakland since 1966, but that changes this weekend.

(8-3) New York Giants @ (6-5) Pittsburgh Steelers (-6) – Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Steelers

When the Rooneys and the Maras get together it’s always a good time. Same with the creme de la creme of the ’04 draft class in Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger (honorable mention: Philip Rivers, of course).

The Giants hold a 44-29-3 edge over the Steelers in the lifetime series between these two great NFL franchises, but the Steelers are 2-1 against the Giants with Roethlisberger and Manning at the helm.

However, the Giants’ last win over the Steelers did come in the unfriendly confines of Heinz Field back in 2008.

So, what does that all mean here and now in Week 13 of 2016?

Nothing, probably. But hey, it’s interesting stuff.

Anyway, I think the Giants struggle this time around in Pittsburgh. Big Blue has gotten away with some mediocre play over the course of their six-game win streak and every team they’ve beaten in that stretch (aside from the 6-5 Ravens) currently has a losing record.

Steelers win by a TD-plus.

Heads or Tails

(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

(7-4) Miami Dolphins @ (6-5) Baltimore Ravens (-3.5) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS – Dolphins

Straight Up – Ravens

The Dolphins struggle to stop the run and rank 30th in yards allowed in 2016.

The Ravens struggle to run the ball and are 29th in the league in total yards on the ground this year.

The Ravens’ aerial attack is slightly better, but the Dolphins are a top 10 defense against the pass.

The Ravens’ defense, meanwhile, is one of the best all around units in the game this year.

So in summation, if you’re a fan of hard-nosed, low-scoring, “ugly” football games, this might just be the one for you.

As a result, I’m taking the points and I’m taking the home team to pull out what is a crucial game for both teams and the AFC Wild Card picture as a whole.

(8-3) Kansas City Chiefs @ (7-4) Atlanta Falcons (-3.5) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Falcons

This game should be fascinating to watch on so many levels. Julio Jones vs. Marcus Peters, the Chiefs “death by 1,000 cuts” offense vs. the Falcons “death by atomic bomb” style of attack.

The Falcons’ suspect defense, especially without Desmond Trufant for the rest of the year, vs. Tyreek Hill and maybe Jeremy Maclin.

Wow this one’s hard to pick.

I’m going out on a limb and taking the home team in spite of the spread, but this one should be a blast to watch and can really go either way.

(7-4) Detroit Lions @ (5-6) New Orleans Saints (-5.5) – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Lions

Aside from a loss to the Giants back in Week 2, the Saints have allowed at least 20 points in every game this season. Sure, they haven’t allowed more than 30 points in a game since Week 6 against the Panthers, but don’t get too excited.

Since then, they’ve played the Chiefs, Seahawks, 49ers, Broncos, Panthers and Rams — not exactly NFL powerhouses from an offensive standpoint.

Neither are the Lions, but I like Detroit and Matt Stafford to keep this one close. I’m expecting a 30-plus point effort from both offenses and a dramatic finish from what should be one of the best games of the week.

(6-5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ (5-6) San Diego Chargers (-4) – Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET

ATS/Straight Up – Chargers

Yet another toss up in Week 13. The Bucs and Chargers feel like such similar teams in many ways. Both, in different ways, seem like they’re overachieving

This one comes down to two game-changing players on either side of the ball and how the other team fares in stopping them.

If the Bucs stop Melvin Gordon, they have a great chance at a victory.

If the Chargers stop Mike Evans, they’ll win.

I’m giving the edge to the Chargers

Bryan Altman is, for some reason, an unabashed fan of the Rangers, Jets and Mets. If he absolutely had to pick a basketball team it would be the Knicks, but he’d gladly trade them for a championship for any of his other three teams.

Questions or comments? Feel free to follow Bryan on Twitter or send him an email.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fMGpiG

Caretakers Of Disabled Illinois Residents Could Get OT Pay

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois General Assembly approved a measure allowing home health care workers to get overtime pay for work over 40 hours a week.

The 68-42 vote in the House Wednesday would allow disabled people aided by visiting workers to keep familiar faces helping them even if work exceeds 40 hours in a week.

The bill now goes to Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner. But Rauner cited cost in severely limiting overtime pay this year after a federal rule qualified the workers for time-and-a-half overtime pay.

Advocates say it’s meant that disabled people had to find newcomers to finish up a few hours each week — people who are unfamiliar to the clients and hard to find for minimal hours.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2g85828

Report: Chicago Restaurants Not Getting Proper Inspections

CHICAGO (AP) — A new report shows that more than half of the high-risk food establishments in Chicago haven’t received proper inspections as required by state law.

The information comes from an audit the city’s Office of Inspector General released Tuesday. It found that less than 44 percent of establishments, including restaurants, weren’t inspected the minimum of two times that the law requires. The category also includes hospital kitchens, day care centers and schools. The office says that puts public safety and continued state funding at risk.

Officials with the Chicago Department of Public Health say in response that they’re doing what they can with insufficient resources. They say more money and help are needed but they’ve made strides in recent years and prioritize businesses considered to be most at risk for violations.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fSi3Yi

Cigarette Maker Moving Toward End Of Smokes As We Know Them?

(CBS) – Philip Morris International has signaled it may one day phase out traditional cigarettes as it develops an alternative that heats tobacco but doesn’t burn it.

Consumers still ingest nicotine with the test-marketed “heated tobacco” products, but supposedly they get less toxins.

The head of Switzerland-based PMI, Andre Calantzopolous, talked with the BBC in a story published this week. He is quoted as saying he’d like to work with governments to phase out conventional smokes in favor of products that are less harmful.

Consumers load tobacco sticks into charged holders that heat up the tobacco. It’s a different system than e-cigarette “vaping” systems, the BBC reports.

PMI is a spin-off from the American company Altria, parent of Philip Morris USA.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fMySR4

Aurora Man Gets 48 Years For Murder Of Ex-Girlfriend

CHICAGO (CBS) — A west suburban man has been sentenced to 48 years in prison for beating his his ex-girlfriend to death more than two years ago in Aurora.

Jose Loera, 38, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder Sept. 20 before Judge George Bakalis, according to the DuPage County state’s attorney’s office. He has been held at the DuPage County Jail on $5 million bond since his arrest.

On the evening of March 28, 2014, Loera went to his ex-girlfriend Heather Jacobi’s home in the 100 block of Gregory Lane in Aurora and an argument between the two turned violent, prosecutors said. Loera beat and strangled Jacobi with a scarf, then returned home.

About 1:30 a.m. March 29, police received a call requesting a well-being check at Loera’s home in the 3800 block of Gabrielle Lane in Aurora and found him unconscious, prosecutors said. He was taken to a hospital, where he was treated and released to authorities.

About six hours later, police discovered Jacobi, 32, dead inside her home after conducting a well-being check, prosecutors said.

Judge Bakalis sentenced Loera to 48 years in prison Wednesday, according to the state’s attorney’s office. He will be required to serve 100 percent of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

“I would like to thank the Court for imposing an appropriate sentence in this very tragic case. Forty-eight years behind bars is a long time and for Mr. Loera, at thirty eight years old, a forty-eight year sentence is essentially a life sentence. Our thoughts and prayers are with Heather’s family and friends, particularly her children, as they close this horrible chapter in their lives,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gHfnhb

Person Shot In University Village

CHICAGO (CBS) — A person was shot in the forehead Wednesday afternoon in the University Village neighborhood.

It happened at 12:36 p.m. in the 600 block of South Ashland, according to Chicago Police.

The male, whose age wasn’t immediately available, was shot in the forehead but his condition was stabilized, police said.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gJQP4E

Police Warn Of North Side Grocery, Drug Store Armed Robberies

CHICAGO (CBS) — Police are warning North Side residents of three recent grocery and drug store armed robberies in the Edgewater, Lakeview and North Center neighborhoods.

The suspect entered the stores, approached the cashier with a gun and demanded money from the register, Chicago Police said.

The robberies happened:
– between 4:19 a.m. and 7:40 p.m. Nov. 26 in the 6100 block of North Broadway Avenue;
– around 1:28 a.m. Nov. 27 in the 3200 block of North Broadway Avenue; and
– about 1:50 a.m. Nov. 27 in the 3400 block of North Western Avenue.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic man between 25 and 45 years old, weighing 180 to 230 pounds, between 5-foot-8 and 5-foot-11 with brown hair and brown eyes, police said. He was wearing a tan Carhartt-style jacket, a black hooded sweatshirt and cargo-style pants.

Anyone with information about these robberies should contact Area North detectives at (312) 745-6110.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gWwSL6

Package Delivery Truck Stolen From Greater Grand Crossing

CHICAGO (CBS) — A package delivery truck that was stolen Wednesday morning from the Greater Grand Crossing neighborhood on the South Side was later found.

The truck was stolen at 11:34 a.m. from the 7400 block of South Vernon, according to Chicago Police.

Officers found the truck a short time later nearby in the 7200 block of South Evans, police said.

Police were investigating whether any packages were stolen from the truck.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gWkfQ2

Two Washington Park Robberies In Same Day Prompt Community Alert

CHICAGO (CBS) — Police have issued a community alert about two armed robberies in the Washington Park neighborhood on the South Side.

Two to six suspects armed with handguns approached victims on the sidewalk and demanded property before fleeing the area, according to the alert from Chicago Police.

The first robbery occurred at 6:40 p.m. on Nov. 27 at the 300 block of East Garfield Boulevard and the second took place 10 minutes later on the 5600 block of South King Drive.

Anyone with information should contact Area Central detectives at (312) 747-8382.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gJLgDn

CEO And CFO Of Schaumburg Firm Facing Federal Fraud Charges

CHICAGO (CBS) — The CEO and CFO of a consulting firm based in northwest suburban Schaumburg are facing federal fraud charges for misrepresenting the company’s financial condition and lying to regulators.

Nandu Thondavadi, 62, the CEO of Quadrant 4 System Corp., and the firm’s CFO, 55-year-old Dhru Desai, were each charged with one count of wire fraud and one count of willfully certifying false reports, according to the U.S. Attorney’s office. Thondavadi also faces a charge of making false statements to the SEC.

The investigation was launched earlier this year based on indications the firm’s recent annual reports to the SEC contained false information, prosecutors said. Thondavadi allegedly lied under oath when questioned in May by the SEC about some of the falsehoods.

Prosecutors allege Thondavadi intentionally misrepresented the firm’s cash flow and concealed its liabilities in filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. He certified filings that misrepresented and concealed from the company’s auditors and shareholders the terms of certain acquisitions and the amount of liability stemming from a lawsuit.

The misrepresentations and concealments were intended to artificially inflate the company’s share price, according to prosecutors.

Quadrant 4, a publicly traded company, has offices in seven U.S. states and India, and provides software products, platforms and consulting services to customers in the healthcare and education sectors.

Authorities executed a search warrant Wednesday morning at Quadrant 4’s corporate headquarters in the 1500 block of East Woodfield Road in Schaumburg, prosecutors said.

Thondavadi, of Barrington, and Desai, of Barrington, were arrested Wednesday morning, according to prosecutors. Both were scheduled to have their initial appearances at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael T. Mason.

The wire fraud and willfully certifying false financial report charges are each punishable by up to 20 years in prison, prosecutors said. Making false statements to the SEC is punishable by up to five years.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gWkdHU

59-Year-Old Man Fatally Struck By Truck In Loop

CHICAGO (CBS) — A pedestrian died after he was struck by a truck Wednesday morning in the Loop.

The driver of the tractor trailer truck was stopped at a red light and heading west in the 100 block of West Congress at 10:26 a.m. when the light turned green, he pulled forward and struck the man, according to Chicago Police.

The 59-year-old man was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said. His name was not released Wednesday afternoon.

Police initially said the crash may have been a hit-and-run, but the driver stopped. The 50-year-old man was cited for not taking due care to avoid a pedestrian in the roadway and is scheduled to appear in traffic court at 9 a.m. on Jan. 30.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gJLt9N

2016 Toy Guide For All Ages

With tons of toy options, finding the perfect gift for your little ones can seem overwhelming during the holidays. Many of us can recall an early childhood memory of a favorite toy or game. The best toys are the ones we play with for years or the games that bring you closer to those special people in your life. Make great memories this holiday season with the best toys of 2016. You’ll be giving Santa a run for his money this year!

Disney Baby Finding Nemo Sea Of Activities Jumper
Up to 25 lbs
Find it here

Treat the newest member of the family to an activity jumper that provides endless stimulation with over thirteen engaging toys and activities. Four height adjustment settings allow the jumper to grow with your baby and the 360 degree rotating seat ensures that your baby won’t miss out on anything. Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!

Fisher-Price Bright Beats Learnin’ Lights Dance Mat
Ages 9-36 months
Find it here

Fisher Price has created an interactive dance mat that encourages your babies to sit, crawl, walk and dance in a fun and exciting way. Bright Beats leads the way with interactive motion censored lights, 4 light up buttons, music, games and more. The ABCs just became a whole lot more fun.

Big Waffle Block Set
Ages 2+
Find it here

Encourage young kids to climb and build with the Big Waffle Block Set. Let the creative juices flow as you bond with your kids and create all sorts of castles, cities and houses together. Since the set breaks down, it’s easier to store than most sets and can be used indoors or outdoors. Rainy days just became a whole lot more fun.

Fisher Price Think & Learn Code-a-Pillar
Ages 3+
Find it here

The new Fisher Price Code-A-Pillar is the perfect toy for your little Einstein. The eight different segments can be connected in various different patterns that make the caterpillar move. This encourages problem solving skills and critical thinking. Not to mention all the fun your little one will be having. Ready, set, code!

Magna-Tiles
Ages 3+
Find it here

Science doesn’t have to be boring. Magnets are a great way to learn, build and create. Young kids will have endless opportunities to create 3D shapes and buildings with these magnetic shapes. Even the grown ups will be asking, “Is it my turn yet?”

Frozen Kinetic Sand
Ages 4+
Find it here

Make Olaf’s dreams come true by making him a “sandman” in summer with kinetic sand. If you haven’t heard of kinetic sand, it’s the world’s first no mess sand that’s easy to clean up and never dries out. Sand is a great tool for sensory play where kids can build and squish sand without making your house look like you just got back from the beach. Fun times will surely be had even on the days when outside seems “Frozen.”

Hot Wheels Super 6 Lane Raceway Playset
Ages 5+
Find it here

If you have a car lover in your family, surprise them with the ultimate car racing experience. Now everyone in the family can race to the finish lane with this new six lane raceway. Even the neighbors will want to come over and play!

Pokemon Trading Cards
Ages 6+
Find it here

Pokemon is back! This time they’ve turned things up a notch with EX and Mega cards. These cards add additional damage and combat power to your Pokemon. Catch em’ all and trade them with friends or in the new online trading game. Let the battle begin!

Bloxels
Ages 7+
Find it here

Elon Musk, the inventor of America’s first battery powered car and Space X, made his first video game at the age of 12. Bloxels is an easy and fun way for your kids to create their own video game. The physical Bloxels are used to create your own world and store that work with the free app. The options are as endless as the fun you’ll have with your new creations. You might even say it’s out of this world!

3Doodler Start 3D Printing Pen Set
Ages 8+
Find it here

Your creative kids can finally build their own world with the new 3Doodler Printing Pen. Create 3D drawings that you can actually hold and play with. The possibilities are endless. All you have to do is turn it on, insert a color strand and start doodling. Picasso himself would envy your creations.

Singing Machine Bluetooth Karaoke System
Recommended Ages 9+
Find it here

Impress your tweens with endless fun Friday nights with this karaoke machine. Invite family and friends over to help you belt out the classics or the newest Bruno Mars song. The bluetooth feature allows you to easily find your karaoke songs on Youtube and stream them right to the machine. Next stop, Broadway!

Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Film Camera
Recommended Ages 10+
Find it here

If you have older kids let them explore their creative side with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Film Camera! Just like when you were younger, this camera allows you to take a photo and instantly prints out the picture. Even if they don’t discover a passion for photography they’ll be sure to have memories that will last them all the way to next Christmas!

Merissa Principe is a teacher and a freelance travel blogger from NYC. Teaching early childhood education has provided Merissa an opportunity to travel all over the world and live in new places. Be sure to follow her at Citygirlriss.wordpress.com for all things travel, beauty, fashion and New York City.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gLE4pb

3 Chicago Doctors Honored For Work In War-Torn Aleppo

CHICAGO (CBS) — Chicago Magazine has honored three doctors as “Chicagoans of the Year,” after they traveled to Aleppo – one of the world’s most dangerous places – to highlight the civil war in Syria.

John Kahler, Zaher Sahloul, and Samer Attar said they believe most of the world has chosen to ignore the besieged city in the midst of a civil war that has raged on for nearly six years, with more than 400,000 Syrians killed.

Rebel-held eastern Aleppo was home to 1.5 million people when the war began, but now just a couple hundred thousand remain.

“At least 40 percent of them are children. These will die,” said Kahler, a pediatrician with Access Community Health Network, who spent four days in Aleppo this summer.

Among the thousands of children killed during the war was 2-year-old Doaa, who clutched a surgeon’s finger as he succumbed to bombing-related injuries.

Seven-year-old Bana Alabed stood in front of her window weeks ago, trying to block out the sounds of dropping bombs by plugging her ears with her fingers. Now her house is no more. She took to Twitter on Wednesday to highlight what’s happening in her besieged city writing, “I saw deaths and I almost died.”

“This is humans bombing other humans into submission,” Kahler said.

He saw the largest humanitarian crisis since World War II first-hand. Kahler spent days working there earlier this summer as part of the Syrian American Medical Society, and still can’t believe the choices doctors are forced to make in Aleppo.

“Of five people, what two does it look like I could save?” Kahler said.

The underground hospital where Kahler worked in June has since been reduced to rubble, after the last hospital in the city was destroyed.

Still doctors in Aleppo are working to save lives one stich and one cut at a time.

Kahler, Sahloul, and Attar will be honored by Chicago Magazine at a luncheon next week at the Four Seasons.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2g7r8Ki

Watch: Andrew Shaw’s Temper Still Burns Hot

(CBS) The temper of Canadiens forward Andrew Shaw still runs hot, in case anyone here locally was wondering about the former Blackhawk.

We were reminded of that again Tuesday night, when Shaw was called for a hooking penalty late in Montreal’s 2-1 loss to Anaheim as the Canadiens pushed for the tying goal. Shaw didn’t agree with the call. He let the referee know about it. He busted his stick. He received a game misconduct. He also manhandled a stick rack.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gGyS9I

Creator Of McDonald’s Flagship Sandwich, The Big Mac, Dies

PITTSBURGH (AP) — You probably don’t know his name, but you’ve almost certainly devoured his creation: two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, on a sesame seed bun.

Michael James “Jim” Delligatti, the McDonald’s franchisee who created the Big Mac nearly 50 years ago and saw it become perhaps the best-known fast-food sandwich in the world, died Monday at home in Pittsburgh. Delligatti, who according to his son ate at least one 540-calorie Big Mac a week for decades, was 98.

Delligatti’s franchise was based in Uniontown, not far from Pittsburgh, when he invented the chain’s signature burger in 1967 after deciding customers wanted a bigger sandwich. Demand exploded as Delligatti’s sandwich spread to the rest of his 47 stores in Pennsylvania and was added to the chain’s national menu in 1968.

“He was often asked why he named it the Big Mac, and he said because Big Mc sounded too funny,” his son Michael Delligatti said.

Jim Delligatti told The Associated Press in 2006 that McDonald’s resisted the idea at first because its simple lineup of hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fries and shakes was selling well.

“They figured, why go to something else if (the original menu) was working so well?” Delligatti said then.

McDonald’s has sold billions of Big Macs since then, in more than 100 countries. When the burger turned 40, McDonald’s estimated it was selling 550 million Big Macs a year, or roughly 17 every second.

A McDonald’s Big Mac and French Fries (PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images)

“Delligatti was a legendary franchisee within McDonald’s system who made a lasting impression on our brand,” the Oak Brook, Illinois-based company said Wednesday in a statement. The Big Mac “has become an iconic sandwich enjoyed by many around the world.”

Ann Dugan, a former assistant dean of the University of Pittsburgh’s Katz School of Business and an expert on business franchises, said Jim Delligatti’s genius was simple: He listened to customers who wanted a bigger burger.

“In franchising, there’s always this set playbook and you have to follow it. Jim saw an opportunity to go outside the playbook because he knew the customer,” Dugan said. “He persevered and (McDonald’s) listened, and the rest is history.”

Delligatti headed M&J Management, a four-generation family business and McDonald’s franchise organization, for more than 60 years. He opened his first McDonald’s in Pittsburgh’s North Hills suburbs in 1957. In 1979, he co-founded Pittsburgh’s Ronald McDonald House, then the seventh such facility in the country, where families can stay when children travel to Pittsburgh for life-saving medical care, and he was involved in several other charities.

Delligatti also helped introduce breakfast service at McDonald’s, developing the hotcakes and sausage meal to feed hungry steelworkers on their way home from overnight shifts in the mills, his family said.

In addition to his two sons, Jim Delligatti is survived by his wife, Ellie, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

The Devlin Funeral Home near Pittsburgh is handling visitation Thursday and Friday. Delligatti’s funeral will be held Saturday at St. Joseph’s Parish in O’Hara Township.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fLWHIA

State Income Tax Increase Can Lead To Repeat Of 2011

CHICAGO (CBS) — Will 2017 be a rerun of 2011?

We’re talking about a state income tax increase, outgoing lawmakers helped pass on their last day of service. WBBM’s Dave Dahl reports.

“Didn’t (then-Gov.) Pat Quinn teach us the failure of an income tax increase, also the failure of an income tax increase at the last minute?” State Rep. David McSweeney (R-Barrington Hills) asked.

The state’s income tax went from three percent to five, partly with the help of lame ducks who waddled into the Quinn administration.

Not wanting a repeat, McSweeney has a resolution urging lawmakers to oppose a lame-duck tax increase.

Another lawmaker, State Rep. Jack Franks (D-Marengo), appearing with McSweeney at a statehouse news conference, said the answer is a constitutional amendment making such an increase pass by a three fifths super-majority, not a simple majority.

“Lame duck sessions should not be used for eleventh-hour tax increases – period,” said Franks.

The next General Assembly is sworn in Jan. 11, 2017.

As it stands now, a bill needs only a simple majority to pass if the vote is between Jan. 1 and the inauguration.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fRxoIg

Mayor Emanuel Stays Calm Through Ongoing Illinois Budget Showdown

CHICAGO (CBS) — Mayor Emanuel seems unfazed by the ongoing budget showdown between Governor Rauner and Democratic State lawmakers.

WBBM Political Editor Craig Dellimore has that story from City Hall.

Mayor Emanuel verbally shrugs when asked about the continuing budget stalemate in Springfield. After all, he points out, the Chicago City Council unanimously passed a budget that moves the city forward.

He said the problem for the state in not having a budget is that, it creates uncertainty. Businesses and investors don’t want uncertainty. They have enough of that in their lives, especially these days.

When you create certainty, Emanuel said, you attract business.

In other words, having a state budget would be better than not.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2gyagwY

Forbes: Blackhawks Are 4th-Most Valuable NHL Franchise

(CBS) The Blackhawks are estimated to be worth $925 million, the fourth-most valuable franchise in the NHL, according to Forbes.

The New York Rangers are the most valuable franchise, checking in at $1.25 billion, per Forbes. The Canadiens ($1.12 billion) and Maple Leafs ($1.1 billion) followed before the Blackhawks checked in at fourth.

The Blackhawks have won three Stanley Cups in the past seven seasons and have led the NHL in attendance in each of the past eight seasons, per ESPN.com.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fEec2c

4,000 Properties Available For $1 With Expansion Of Large Lots Program

CHICAGO (CBS) — Major Emanuel announced Tuesday a major expansion of the city’s Large Lots land sale program, that will expand into more than 30 communities across Chicago.

The program sells vacant city-owned land for $1, is set to expand with approximately 4,000 lots in the South and West sides. WBBM’s political ediot Craig Dellimore reports from City Hall.

“The Large Lots program turns vacant lots into neighborhood assets that benefit neighbors and communities,” Mayor Emanuel said. “This program’s success is driven by people who are committed to strengthening their communities block by block, and this expansion will create opportunities to strengthen neighborhoods throughout the entire city of Chicago.”

The Chicago Department of Planning and Development have begun accepting application from existing property owners. People can purchase up to two city-owned lots for $1 each.

Communities where land is available include:
– Auburn Gresham
– Austin
– Avalon Park
– Burnside
– Calumet Heights
– Chatham
– East Garfield
– East Side
– Englewood
– Fuller Park
– Hegewisch
– Humboldt Park
– Morgan Park
– New City
– North Lawndale
– Riverdale
– Roseland Pullman
– South Chicago
– South Deering
– South Shore
– Washington Heights
– West Englewood
– West Garfield
– West Pullman

Areas of Chicago Lawn, Douglas, Gage Park, Grand Boulevard, Great Grand Crossing, Near West Side, Oakland, South Lawndale and Washington Park also have lots available.

Applications will be accepted through Jan. 31, 2017 through the website.

To qualify as a buyer, an applicant must own property on the same block, be current on their property taxes and have no outstanding debt to the city.

Each lot is sold “as-is” via a quit claim deed.

The Large Lots program began in 2014 in greater Englewood and later expanded into other communities. Since the program launched, more than 550 lots have been sold, bringing success to the neighborhoods.

Many lots have been purchased and turned into side yards, community gardens or landscaped open space.

An ongoing study by the U.S. Forest Service indicates that more than 40 percent of buyers make rapid improvements, such as installing fencing, removing trash and refuse, planting grass and foliage, and developing recreational and social amenities. Approximately 20 percent of the lots sold to date are actively gardened, according to a statement for the mayor’s office.

Residents surveyed in the study also reported quieter and safer streets with the reduction of opportunities for vagrancy, loitering, and antisocial behavior.

Applications are submitted through the Large Lots website. Application assistance is available during business hours at City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle St., Room 1101.

from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2fEfbzB