from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2elbYAI
Monday, July 31, 2017
White Sox Rally Past Blue Jays Late After Losing Moncada, Garcia To Injury
CHICAGO (AP) — Matt Davidson singled in Leury Garcia with two outs in the ninth inning for his second game-ending hit in as many days, and the Chicago White Sox rallied to beat Toronto Blue Jays, 7-6, on Monday night after losing top prospect Yoan Moncada to a right knee injury.
Adam Engel sparked the winning rally with a one-out single against Roberto Osuna (3-2). Garcia then was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second.
After Tyler Saladino struck out swinging, Jose Abreu tied it at 6 with a single to right. Davidson followed with another base hit, and then was mobbed by his teammates as he ran around the infield.
The White Sox trailed 6-1 before they scored four times in the eighth, capped by consecutive homers for Davidson and Yolmer Sanchez. Davidson also hit a game-ending, two-run homer in Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Cleveland.
Chris Beck (2-1) pitched a scoreless inning for the win, helped by right fielder Alen Hanson bringing in a foul popup tipped into the air by first baseman Abreu.
Josh Donaldson, Russell Martin and Justin Smoak homered for Toronto, which lost for the third time in four games. Darwin Barney got a three-run double on a frightening play in the sixth, and Marco Estrada pitched seven sparkling innings.
With two outs and the bases loaded, Barney hit a fly ball into shallow right field. A sprinting Moncada tried to pull up as Willy Garcia went for the sliding catch, but he kneed the right fielder in the head and the ball trickled out of Garcia’s glove.
The crowd groaned as the replay was shown on the videoboard in center field. Moncada, who is widely regarded as one of baseball’s top prospects, put no pressure on his right leg while he was helped to a cart by Abreu. The Cuban slugger patted his countryman on the back of his head before he was zipped away.
The team said X-rays on Moncada were negative, and the second baseman is day to day with a bruised knee. Garcia, who walked off under his own power, has a head contusion and will be evaluated again Tuesday morning.
The Blue Jays (49-57) were coming off a dramatic 11-10 victory against the Angels on Steve Pearce’s second game-ending grand slam in four days. But they remain in last place in the AL East, on the fringe of the wild-card race, and left-hander Francisco Liriano and reliever Joe Smith were shipped out in a pair of trades ahead of the non-waiver deadline.
“It’s like having a couple friends changing schools, so hopefully they pitch well where they are at and they’re happy,” Martin said. “But we’re definitely going to miss those guys, that’s for sure.”
Toronto sent Liriano and cash to AL-leading Houston for outfielders Nori Aoki and Teoscar Hernandez. Smith was traded to Cleveland for two minor leaguers.
The White Sox (41-62) had lost 17 of 20. After trading several veterans for more prospects in July, they were quiet on the final day of the month.
MAKING MOVES
The Blue Jays also reinstated left-hander J.P. Howell from the 15-day disabled list and brought up left-hander Brett Oberholtzer from Triple-A Buffalo. Howell was sidelined by a left shoulder injury.
Aoki is expected to join Toronto before Tuesday’s game.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Blue Jays: RHP Aaron Sanchez, who is on the disabled list because of a recurrence of a blister on the middle finger of his right hand, is nearing a return. “He’s feeling a lot better,” manager John Gibbons said. “He said he’s going to go out and play some catch today, and obviously that’s a good thing.” Sanchez could take Liriano’s spot in the rotation.
White Sox: RHP Dylan Covey (strained left oblique) was placed on an injury rehab assignment with the Arizona Rookie League White Sox.
UP NEXT
Blue Jays right-hander Marcus Stroman (9-5, 3.08 ERA) faces White Sox right-hander Mike Pelfrey (3-8, 4.73 ERA) in the second game of the series on Tuesday night. Stroman is winless in his last three starts despite a 1.89 ERA over that stretch. Pelfrey is 0-3 with a 7.07 ERA in his last seven games, six starts.
(© 2017 by STATS LLC and Associated Press. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of STATS LLC and Associated Press is strictly prohibited.)
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2f337sf
Levine: As Trade Deadline Passes, White Sox’s Rebuild Enters Next Phase
By Bruce Levine–
CHICAGO (CBS) — The heavy lifting of player acquisition is over for the White Sox now. Since early last December, they’ve acquired 18 new prospects by trading off nine big league players.
With the non-waiver trade deadline passing Monday afternoon, most of the activity will be over. The only manner of moving more players off the White Sox roster would be through the complicated waiver process in August.
The beginning of a long rebuild can be painful for a front office, fan base, coaches and the 25-man roster, but the White Sox are welcoming it. Notably, some will be happy that trade rumors will die down with the deadline passing.
“I guess for the guys, things will be settling down a bit more now,” manager Rick Renteria said. “As far as what will transpire, it doesn’t mean nothing more can be done. Obviously to this point, most of the major action has taken place.”
The White Sox still have a handful of veteran pitchers they’d be willing to deal in August. Right-hander Miguel Gonzalez would seem to be the most likely candidate, as he could potentially serve as a long reliever on contending team. Chicago is also willing to deal right-hander James Shields, right-hander Mike Pelfrey and left-hander Derek Holland, but their prolonged inconsistencies mean contending foes would be unlikely to be interested.
The move that hit the White Sox the hardest was the trade of outfielder Melky Cabrera to the Royals on Sunday. He was viewed as a clubhouse leader, and others will have to step in to fill that role in the coming years.
“As I told Melky, he has been outstanding for this organization,” general manager Rick Hahn said. “Not only what he did between the white lines but also what he did in the clubhouse. He is a great ambassador of the game and a very passionate player. He will be missed. That said, we have made no secrets. This is about preparing ourselves for the future. With the move, we were able to pick up another couple interesting arms for the organization.”
Playing out the string of the 2017 season will take on different meanings for different players. For the next crop of core White Sox talent, it’s about developing and accumulating big league experience. For others, it may be a showcase for rival clubs and their next job.
More heavy lifting will occur for Hahn and the front office this offseason as the rebuilding continues.
“This was our mission,” Hahn said of his team’s flurry of trades. “This is what we set out to do. This is what we felt was the right thing for the long-term health of the organization. We have a plan now achieving what we set out to do. That said, you do have to respond to the market. You need to be able to find fits. Thanks to the hard work of our scouts and the fellows in the front office, we have been able to get things done as the opportunities have arisen.”
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2hhVYVF
Fans React To Steve Bartman Receiving World Series Ring
CHICAGO (CBS) — It may be the most talked about ball in all of baseball — the one that changed Cubs’ fan Steve Bartman’s life forever.
Many thought he interfered on a key play in Game 6 of the 2003 National League Championship Series, thus dooming the Cubs World Series chances.
While Steve Bartman didn’t cost the Cubs a World Series appearance, this play in Game 6 of the 2003 NLCS became a part of Chicago’s long losing streak in championship-clinching home games. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
But Monday, Bartman and the Cubs moved to put it all behind them. The team announced that Bartman will receive a 2016 World Series ring from the franchise.
“On behalf of the entire Chicago Cubs organization, we are honored to present a 2016 World Series championship ring to Mr. Steve Bartman,” the Cubs said in a statement. “We hope this provides closure on an unfortunate chapter of the story that has perpetuated throughout our quest to win a long-awaited World Series. While no gesture can fully lift the public burden he has endured for more than a decade, we felt it was important Steve knows he has been and continues to be fully embraced by this organization. After all he has sacrificed, we are proud to recognize Steve Bartman with this gift today.”
Bartman said he is deeply moved and sincerely grateful, and hopes it will be the start of an important healing and reconciliation process for all involved.
The Chicago Cubs have given a personalized World Series ring to Steve Bartman, who famously tried to catch a foul ball during Game 6 of the 2003 National League Championship Series. After Bartman deflected the ball away from outfielder Moises Alou, the Cubs went on to blow a 3-0 lead in the game and eventually a 3-2 series lead to the Florida Marlins, who went on to win the World Series. (Credit: Chicago Cubs)
Most fans, but arguably not all, hope so, too.
Bartman has never spoken publicly about that night and, despite his heartfelt statement, doesn’t plan to now.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2f2OZ2f
Nearly 2,000 Chicago-Area Mechanics Set To Go On Strike
CHICAGO (CBS) — If you are getting your car fixed anytime soon, you might want to call ahead.
CBS 2’s Charlie De Mar reports that starting on Tuesday, roughly 1,700 mechanics will be on strike at more than 130 new car dealerships.
The reason for the walk-off? Many mechanic’s union contracts are expiring Monday at midnight, and a new deal has yet to be reached.
The union, which represents nearly 2,000 mechanics, couldn’t agree to terms with the new car dealer committee.
“Sunday, a final offer was put forth by the new car dealers committee. It included five percent pay raises almost across the board over the next three years,” said Mark Bilek, who’s with the Chicago Automobile Trade Association.
Bilek says the Mechanics’ Union Local 701 didn’t take the deal, choosing, instead, to strike.
Some of the sticking points for the union are mechanics not getting paid for all the hours they work, non-consecutive days off and increased health care costs.
“We really hoped that we could come to this agreement without a work stoppage,” Bilek said.
Customers like Michael Spada are concerned about what it means for people in need of a repair, saying, “if you need it fixed that day, it’s difficult now. You have to rush around and find another place. What if you are pressed for time?”
For some perspective, there are about 420 new car dealerships in the Chicago-land area.
Anyone who needs to get their car looked at is encouraged to call ahead to make sure the service garage is open and that mechanics are working.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2ueijEK
White Sox’s Yoan Moncada Day-To-Day With Knee Contusion After Frightening Collision
CHICAGO (AP) — White Sox second baseman Yoan Moncada hurt his right leg in a frightening collision with right fielder Willy Garcia in the sixth inning of Chicago’s game against Toronto.
Shortly after the injury, the White Sox announced that X-rays were negative on Moncada and that he was day-to-day with a right knee contusion. Garcia suffered a head contusion and was set to be re-evaluated Tuesday morning.
Moncada and Garcia were chasing Darwin Barney’s bases-loaded blooper into shallow right field when the second baseman kneed a sliding Garcia in the head. The ball trickled out of Garcia’s glove for a three-run double.
Moncada, who is widely regarded as one of baseball’s top prospects, put no pressure on his right leg while he was helped to a cart by first baseman Jose Abreu, who patted his Cuban countryman on the back of his head before he was zipped away.
Garcia also went down on the play on Monday night but eventually walked off under his own power.
Copyright 2017 Associated Press.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vn49WV
19 Fire Departments Respond To St. Charles Garage Fire
CHICAGO (CBS) — Nineteen fire departments responded Monday afternoon to a west suburban garage fire that tore through the attic of a home, a neighbor’s garage and three vehicles in two separate driveways.
At 12:31 p.m., fire officials responded to a report of a detached garage fire at 314 Indiana Street in St. Charles, according to a statement from the St. Charles Fire Department.
Firefighters found a detached garage with the fire spreading to the attic of the home and moving to the first floor, the fire department said. The blaze also involved three vehicles in the driveways of the original home, as well as a neighbor’s house to the west.
The neighbor’s garage was also catching on fire, the statement said. The fire was elevated to a second-level MABAS box alarm, bringing 19 fire departments to the scene and to the St. Charles Fire Department to fill in.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control in about 90 minutes, the fire department said. No injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental and remains under investigation, the fire department said. Fire damages to the structures, vehicles and contents were estimated at $385,000.
The vehicles and the garage were destroyed and the home is not habitable, the fire department said. The people living in the destroyed home are being assisted by the Red Cross.
(Source: Sun-Times Media Wire © Chicago Sun-Times 2017. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vhlyj1
Officer Shot Thanks Children For Sending Get-Well Cards During Recovery
CHICAGO (CBS) – A Chicago police officer shot in the line of duty earlier this month has a long road to recovery.
But as CBS 2’s Mai Martinez reports, on Monday, the officer took time to meet and thank some of her youngest supporters.
“I think that she really is a hero,” said 10-year-old Diego Castillo who was just one of the children anxiously waiting to meet their hero, officer Victoria Mendoza at the Wilson Park Fieldhouse on Monday.
And Mendoza was just as excited to meet them.
Officer Mendoza was shot in the leg July 21 while chasing suspects from an armed robbery at a T-Mobile store.
“I knew I was hit because I looked down, and I saw blood, but with the adrenaline going, I did not feel the pain,” Mendoza said.
While she was hospitalized, the children sent her get well cards.
“It was scary because we didn’t know if she was going to be okay or not,” said Koki Murray, one of the children who set a get-well card.
On Monday, she thanked them and did her best to answer their questions about what happened.
“They wanted to get away and they just decided to pull out guns, and they wanted to hurt us, and I got shot in the leg, but it’s okay. I mean, I will walk again. I will run again,” Mendoza said.
Officer Mendoza said she has received well wishes from across the country, but it’s the cards like these from the children that really touched her heart.
“It meant a lot because sometimes you forget that people care about us out there. The little kids, they have the innocent hearts and stuff and they wanted to make sure ‘hey are you guys ok?’” Mendoza said.
Mendoza said she will treasure the cards forever. She said she loves her job and cannot wait to get back to work. She also hopes to be able to hustle up the Hancock in February. It is something she has been doing ever since 2012.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2f2Vhib
Sam Shepard, Pulitzer-Winning Playwright, Is Dead At 73
NEW YORK (AP) — Sam Shepard, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Oscar-nominated actor and celebrated author whose plays chronicled the explosive fault lines of family and masculinity in the American West, has died. He was 73.
Family spokesman Chris Boneau said Monday that Shepard died Thursday at his home in Kentucky from complications related to Lou Gehrig’s disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
The taciturn Shepard, who grew up on a California ranch, was a man of few words who nevertheless produced 44 plays and numerous books, memoirs and short stories. He was one of the most influential playwrights of his generation: a plain-spoken poet of the modern frontier, both lyrical and rugged.
In his 1971 one-act “Cowboy Mouth, which he wrote with his then-girlfriend, musician and poet Patti Smith, one character says, “People want a street angel. They want a saint but with a cowboy mouth” — a role the tall and handsome Shepard fulfilled for many. But in soul-searching plays, his portrait of the West was a disillusioned one, peopled by broken characters whose realities fell far short of the American Dream.
“I was writing basically for actors,” Shepard told The Associated Press in a 2011 interview. “And actors immediately seemed to have a handle on it, on the rhythm of it, the sound of it, the characters. I started to understand there was this possibility of conversation between actors and that’s how it all started.”
Shepard’s Western drawl and laconic presence made him a reluctant movie star, too. He appeared in dozens of films — many of them Westerns — including Terrence Malick’s “Days of Heaven,” ”Steel Magnolias,” ”The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” and 2012’s “Mud.” He was nominated for an Oscar for his performance as pilot Chuck Yeager in 1983’s “The Right Stuff.” Among his most recent roles was the Florida Keys patriarch of the Netflix series “Bloodline.”
But Shepard was best remembered for his influential plays and his prominent role in the Off-Off-Broadway movement. His 1979 play “Buried Child,” about the breaking down of an Illinois family, won the Pulitzer for drama. Two other plays — “True West,” about two warring brothers, and “Fool for Love,” about a man who fears he’s turning into his father — were nominated for the Pulitzers as well. All are frequently revived.
“I always felt like playwriting was the thread through all of it,” Shepard said in 2011. “Theater really when you think about it contains everything. It can contain film. Film can’t contain theater. Music. Dance. Painting. Acting. It’s the whole deal. And it’s the most ancient. It goes back to the Druids. It was way pre-Christ. It’s the form that I feel most at home in, because of that, because of its ability to usurp everything.”
Samuel Shepard Rogers VII was born in Fort Sheridan, Illinois, in 1943. He grew up on an avocado ranch in Duarte, California. His father was an alcoholic schoolteacher and former Army pilot. Shepard would later write frequently of the damage done by drunks. He had his own struggles, too. Long stretches of sobriety were interrupted by drunk driving arrests, in 2009 and 2015.
Shepard arrived in New York in 1963 with no connections, little money and vague aspirations to act, write or make music. “I just dropped in out of nowhere,” he told the New Yorker in 2010. But Shepard quickly became part of the off-off-Broadway movement at downtown hangouts like Caffe Cino and La MaMa. “As far as I’m concerned, Broadway just does not exist,” Shepard told Playboy in 1970 — though many of his later plays would end up there.
His early plays — fiery, surreal verbal assaults — pushed American theater in an energized, frenzied direction that matched the times. A drummer himself, Shepard found his own rock ‘n roll rhythm. Seeking spontaneity, he initially refused to rewrite his drafts, a strategy he later dismissed as “just plain stupid.”
As Shepard matured as a playwright, he returned again and again to meditations on violence, masculinity and family. His collection “Seven Plays,” which includes many of his best plays, including “Buried Child” and “The Tooth of Crime,” was dedicated to his father.
“There’s some hidden, deeply rooted thing in the Anglo male American that has to do with inferiority, that has to do with not being a man, and always, continually having to act out some idea of manhood that invariably is violent,” he told The New York Times in 1984. “This sense of failure runs very deep — maybe it has to do with the frontier being systematically taken away, with the guilt of having gotten this country by wiping out a native race of people, with the whole Protestant work ethic. I can’t put my finger on it, but it’s the source of a lot of intrigue for me.”
Shepard was married from 1969 to 1984 to actress O-Lan Jones, with whom he had son Jesse Mojo Shepard.
His connection to music was constant. He joined Bob Dylan on the 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue tour of 1975, and co-wrote the song “Brownsville Girl” with him. Shepard and Patti Smith were one-time lovers but lifetime friends. “We’re just the same,” Smith once said. “When Sam and I are together, it’s like no particular time.”
Shepard’s movie career began in the late ’70s. While making the 1982 Frances Farmer biopic “Frances,” he met Jessica Lange and the two remained together for nearly 30 years. They had two children, Hannah Jane and Samuel Walker. They separated in 2009. Lange once said of Shepard: “No man I’ve ever met compares to Sam in terms of maleness.”
Shepard worked occasionally in movies (among other things, he wrote Wim Wenders’ 1984 Texas brothers drama “Paris, Texas”) but took acting gigs more frequently as he grew older. One movie, he said, could pay for 16 plays.
Besides his plays, Shepard wrote short stories and a full-length work of fiction, “The One Inside,” which came out earlier this year. “The One Inside” is a highly personal narrative about a man looking back on his life and taking in what has been lost, including control over his own body as the symptoms of ALS advance.
“Something in the body refuses to get up. Something in the lower back. He stares at the walls,” Shepard writes. “The appendages don’t seem connected to the motor — whatever that is — driving this thing. They won’t take direction — won’t be dictated to — the arms, legs, feet, hands. Nothing moves. Nothing even wants to.”
Shepard’s longtime editor at Alfred A. Knopf, LuAnn Walther, said Shepard’s language was “quite poetic, and very intimate, but also very direct and plainspoken.” She said that when people asked her what Shepard was really like, she would respond, “Just read the fiction.”
The playwright is survived by his three children and two sisters: Sandy and Roxanne Rogers.
In Shepard’s 1982 book “Motel Chronicles,” he said that he felt like he never had a home. That feeling, he later, acknowledged, always remained.
“I basically live out of my truck,” Shepard said in 2011. “I feel more at home in my truck than just about anywhere, which is a sad thing to say. But it’s true.”
(TM and © Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2hhuCim
Cook County’s Soda Tax To Begin Wednesday
CHICAGO (CBS) — Barring a last minute change, Cook County’s sweetened beverage tax will go into effect on Wednesday, which means it will cost a penny an ounce more.
A 2 liter bottle of pop, for example, will cost 67 cents.
Stores have less than 48-hours to reprogram their registers to collect the tax.
“We have to double check at the register that we are charging the right price too,” said Jorge Rivera, who works at La Chiquita Market in Little Village. “We’re doing our best.”
At La Chiquita, they’ve put the cost warning signs out to customers. Now, the general manager of the store, Martin Sandovol, is putting out a warning about business. He said the store could be down anywhere from 20 to 30 percent in sales.
“We’re afraid of maybe losing our jobs,” Rivera said.
Sandovol says if business slumps for three months, pink slips could follow for an estimated 50 workers.
Due to past legal delays in collecting the sweetened beverage tax, 300 employees were given layoff notifications — and some were let go.
Cook County says that number could potentially decrease.
A judge blocked the tax on June 30, one day before it was originally supposed to go into effect, after the Illinois Retail Merchants Association filed a lawsuit challenging the legality and constitutionality of the tax. The judge dismissed that lawsuit on Friday, allowing the county to put the tax into effect, which county officials said will happen Wednesday, barring the possibility IRMA files an appeal and receives another injunction.
The tax includes all sugary soft drinks, lemonades, teas, sports drinks, and sweetened powders and syrups used for fountain drinks in Cook County. It also would include drinks made with artificial sweeteners.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2f29Cf2
Wabash Avenue Reopens After CTA Station Construction
CHICAGO (CBS) — New light brings hope to jewelers in the loop.
Hundreds of owners on Jewelers Row have suffered through more than two years of construction, at the CTA L stop at Wabash, between Monroe and Washington.
As CBS 2’s Dorothy Tucker reports, the main road that got people to these businesses finally opened.
For more than two years, Koorosh Daneshgar has had a front row view of the construction along Wabash, between Washington and Madison.
Since it started in March of 2015, work crews had blocked street traffic and scaffolding blocked the sun until Monday.
“I said oh my God, this is like heaven. This is beautiful,” Daneshgar said.
Daneshgar is among the dozens of jewelers along the block who have suffered during the CTA’s $75-million remodeling of the Washington-Wabash L stop.
“We had walk-in customers drop about 25 percent,” Daneshgar said.
“We went down like 50 percent,” said Tony Souri, manager of Prudential Gems.
CBS: How did you survive two years?
“The owner supported the last two years,” Souri said.
But not all owners could afford the hit and some closed.
Valet parking companies took a big hit too, as well as their employees.
“On a busy day we make $100, on a slow day $20,” said Rakim Clay, parking attendant.
There have been a lot of slow days, but with traffic finally moving along Wabash…
“I’m happy,” Clay said. “I’ll get more hours so I can’t complain.”
Also no longer complaining – pedestrians, like Loop worker Daniel Miller.
“You could hardly get in. It was like you were in a tunnel,” Miller said.
But now…
CBS: What is it like walking down here now?
“Beautiful,” he said. “Instagram worthy.”
Construction crews are putting the finishing touches on the platform. It is scheduled to be finished next month.
CBS: What do you think it is going to mean for business when it’s all done?
“It brings lot of people downtown. They look once, they look twice. They buy the third time,” Souri said.
The station is expected to be one of the busiest in the city.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vZNJ43
Senate Sends School Funding Bill To Gov. Rauner
CHICAGO (CBS) — In Springfield, negotiations to avoid Gov. Bruce Rauner’s threatened veto of a school funding measure collapsed — and the Senate sent the funding bill to the governor Monday afternoon.
CBS 2’s Derrick Blakley reports that Springfield is now waiting for Rauner to use his veto pen after Democrats and Republicans had dramatically different readings on a meeting to try to reach a school funding compromise. Democrats described progress; Republicans called it stalling.
After meeting for two hours, on the heels of hours of weekend talks, Democrats sounded optimistic about reaching a solution.
“We’ve asked our Republican colleagues to continue negotiations so that we can come to a reasonable compromise,” said Sen. Andy Manar.
But Republicans called Monday’s talks a complete waste of time, with Sen. Jason Barickman saying, “when we attended the meeting, no offer was made. In fact, we spent nearly an hour doing nothing more than listening to the Democrats shuffle their papers and seemingly try to buy time.”
At issue is the fate of Senate Bill 1, which both sides agree would rewrite the state school funding formula in a positive way by sending more money to poor and minority districts that need it.
But Gov. Rauner objects to $215 million for Chicago schools to pay for teacher pensions — making it the only district in the state where pensions costs aren’t paid for by the state.
Rauner wants to cut that money out of the bill, using an amendatory veto.
“We would rather not go to a veto showdown — I would say that. We would like to see a reasonable compromise with Gov. Rauner,” Manar said.
But Gov. Rauner believes the time for talk is over, which is why Democrats sent the bill to his desk.
The Governor’s Office told CBS 2 that they are studying the bill and will issue their veto Tuesday.
And after that, lawmakers will have 15 days to either accept Rauner’s changes or override his veto. If they can’t do either, they will have to start on a new funding bill, starting from scratch.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2hirnHk
Chicago Executive Airport Looks Into Soundproofing Homes
CHICAGO (CBS) — Chicago Executive Airport in Wheeling says it will soon submit documents to the FAA, which could lead to help for area residents whose lives are disrupted by noise from flights in and out of the airport.
Consultants for Chicago Executive Airport recently finished mapping areas most impacted by noise from the nearly 80,000 flights in and out of the airport each year, according to the airport’s spokesman, Rob Mark. Consultants finished putting together what’s known as “airport noise contours.”
He says that, soon, that map will be submitted to the FAA, which airport officials hope gets approval.
Approval would give residents in the most severely impacted noise zones the ability to qualify for help with soundproofing insulation.
Chicago Executive Airport operates 24-hours a day. Mark says a majority of the complaints about noise are the result of flights that occur between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. And, while Mark says there are only a “few flights” in those overnight hours, he admits you “only need one at four in the morning to wake you up.”
Mark says if the FAA approves the newest noise map from Chicago Executive Airport, individual residents would be eligible to apply for relief. The FAA would then put noise monitors in the homes of those residents to determine if they qualify for soundproofing insulation.
Chicago Executive is Illinois’ third busiest airport.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2tYdNPn
Naperville Man Subject Of New Reality Show
CHICAGO (CBS) — Tim Ryan is a recovering heroin addict and even lost one of his sons to the drug.
Since then, he’s worked tirelessly to help others struggling with addiction.
“Man in Recovery Foundation” book cover (Photo courtesy of Tim Ryan)
“I see a lot of death. I’ve been to 109 funerals. I’ll attend my 110th this Saturday, but I also see the people that turn their lives around too,” Ryan said.
Ryan’s “Man in Recovery Foundation” is now the subject of a new reality show on the A&E Network.
“It’s called Dope Man. Last summer we filmed for a month straight. It’s basically a docu series on the day in the life of me. People don’t really understand what’s going on in the world of addiction. It’s not just the opioids, it’s alcohol, it’s cocaine. I deal predominantly with people who use opioids, heroin addiction, but you’re going to get a view on the show,” Ryan said.
Tim and Max Ryan (WBBM/Lisa Fielding)
His son Max Ryan is also on the show.
“I’m his driver. I get to drive around full time with my Dad, helping people in anyway I can,” he said. “I grew up with this addiction with my dad. One thing I learned being here, is how much this drug does not discriminate. It’s doctors, lawyers, from the outhouse to the White House,” said Max Ryan.
Tim Ryan is the subject of a new reality show on A&E (Credit: Facebook/Tim Ryan From Dope to Hope)
Tim Ryan said he hopes to show viewers first hand the tragic truth about the opioid addiction and how many people are dying every day, but who are also getting help and recovering.
“It’s pretty cutting edge, it’s heart wrenching, it’s totally unscripted, but people will see what goes on in this world,” he said. “This drug is destroying a generation.”
Ryan was featured in last year’s series on WBBM Generation Heroin.
“Dope Man” premieres on A&E on July 31 after “Intervention”.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vgLRWz
Levine: Cubs’ Additions Put Them In Prime Position To Make Another Title Run
By Bruce Levine–
CHICAGO (CBS) — To borrow a phrase from Cubs right-hander John Lackey, executives Theo Epstein, Jed Hoyer and Jason McLeod aren’t here to get a haircut.
That was the term Lackey defiantly used in 2016 when a media member asked about his mindset behind signing with the Cubs in free agency. Winning a championship is the lone goal nowadays for the Cubs, and they again displayed that attitude Monday, when they officially acquired left-handed reliever Justin Wilson and catcher Alex Avila from the Tigers in exchange for prospects Jeimer Candelario, Isaac Paredes and either cash or a player to be named later.
The acquisitions of Wilson and Avila don’t guarantee a championship given the anything-can-happen nature of a baseball postseason, but combined with the addition of left-hander Jose Quintana a couple weeks ago, it puts the Cubs in prime position to repeat as NL Central champions and fill the team’s holes come playoff time.
The thinking with the addition of the 29-year-old Wilson was two-tiered. He will serve as a left-handed setup man, with the ability to throw 95 mph with a nasty cut fastball as well. He has a 2.68 ERA and 0.94 WHIP with 55 strikeouts in 40 1/3 innings this season and gives manager Joe Maddon another trusted arm to go alongside the likes of Carl Edwards, Hector Rondon and Pedro Strop in the seventh and eighth innings. Looking ahead, Wilson is under team control through 2018, so he could take over the closer’s role should Wade Davis depart in free agency after this season, which is expected.
The Cubs cast a wide net in evaluating the trade market but were always hoping to add someone who would be with the team for more than just a few months.
“We did look at some rental options,” Hoyer said Monday afternoon after the non-waiver trade deadline passed at 3 p.m. “We were strongly looking at transactions that would help us beyond 2017. With getting Quintana and Wilson, we did that. This was with an eye to the future and eye on how our roster may change after the future. We feel we have strengthened ourselves for the pennant race but also for 2018 and beyond.”
Not having to move any players off the current 25-man roster was crucial in the Cubs’ mind, Hoyer said. As the team moves ahead in the coming weeks, left-hander Mike Montgomery could switch back and forth between a long man role in the bullpen and sixth starter role to ease the burden on the starting rotation down the stretch.
“Adding Wilson takes a lot of pressure off of the other bullpen guys now,” Hoyer said. “We feel very comfortable putting Montgomery in the rotation at any time. If we need to give someone a break or if there is an injury, he has done both jobs well.”
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2tSnbAb
Reports: Dodgers Acquire Yu Darvish From Rangers
(CBS) The Cubs’ quest to repeat as World Series champions will certainly include a tough path through the National League.
Sitting at 74-31 and on pace for 114 wins, the Dodgers bolstered their rotation and team by acquiring right-hander Yu Darvish from the Rangers just minutes ahead of the 3 p.m. non-waiver trade deadline Monday, according to multiple reports. Darvish will give Los Angeles a vaunted rotation, led by left-handed ace Clayton Kershaw, assuming he gets healthy.
Darvish is 6-9 with a 4.01 ERA and 1.17 WHIP. His statistics took a hit in his most recent start when he was tagged for 10 earned runs in 3 2/3 innings in a loss to the Marlins, but the Dodgers were undeterred. He’ll likely slot in as the No. 2 starter in a postseason rotation that figures to include left-handers Alex Wood and Rich Hill as well.
The addition of Darvish is a rental for the Dodgers, as he’s set to be a free agent at season’s end. The Rangers are expected to be big players in his free agency despite trading him.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2uOMVjy
After Series Of Trades In Recent Weeks, White Sox Stand Pat On Deadline Day
(CBS) After a series of deals both big and small in recent weeks, the White Sox didn’t make any moves Monday as the 3 p.m. non-waiver trade deadline came and went.
Chicago made its most recent move Sunday, sending outfielder Melky Cabrera to Kansas City for a pair of prospects. General manager Rick Hahn’s two big trades came a couple weeks back, when the White Sox acquired blue-chip prospects in outfielder Eloy Jimenez and right-hander Dylan Cease in exchange for left-hander Jose Quintana just after the All-Star break. Five days later, Chicago dealt third baseman Todd Frazier, closer David Robertson and reliever Tommy Kahnle to the New York Yankees in a deal headlined by the return of outfielder Blake Rutherford, who’s considered a top-50 prospect.
Dating back to early last December when they started their rebuild in earnest by trading ace left-hander Chris Sale to the Red Sox and outfielder Adam Eaton to the Nationals, the White Sox have dealt nine players off their big league roster for 18 prospects, including seven who rate in the top 68 among MLB.com’s best prospects. Chicago also signed 19-year-old Cuban outfielder Luis Robert in early June.
First baseman/designated hitter Jose Abreu is considered by some as a future trade chip for the White Sox, but the team has two more years of control on him and also believe he’s a tremendous clubhouse influence, notably for rookie second baseman Yoan Moncada, a fellow Cuban.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2f2HNTI
Los Angeles Reaches Deal With Olympic Leaders For 2028 Games
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Los Angeles has reached an agreement with international Olympic leaders that will open the way for the city to host the 2028 Summer Games.
City Council President Herb Wesson’s office confirmed the deal Monday.
Spokeswoman Caolinn Mejza says the pact is expected to be reviewed by the council later this week.
The agreement to be formally announced later Monday follows a vote earlier this month by the International Olympic Committee to seek a deal to award the 2024 and 2028 Games.
Paris is the only city left to host the 2024 Games.
The arrangement would make LA a three-time Olympic city, after hosting the 1932 and 1984 Games.
LA and Paris were the last two bids remaining after a tumultuous process that exposed the unwillingness of cities to bear the financial burden of hosting an event that has become synonymous with cost overruns.
LA was not even the first American entrant in the contest. Boston withdrew two years ago as public support for its bid collapsed over concerns about use of taxpayer cash. The U.S. bid switched from the east to the West Coast as LA entered the race.
But the same apprehensions that spooked politicians and the local population in Boston soon became evident in Europe where three cities pulled out.
Uncomfortably for IOC President Thomas Bach, whose much-vaunted Agenda 2020 reforms were designed to make hosting more streamlined and less costly after the lavish 2014 Sochi Games, the first withdrawal came from his homeland of Germany.
The lack of political unity for a bid in Hamburg was mirrored in Rome and Budapest as support for bids waned among local authorities and the population. It was clear they did not want to be saddled with skyrocketing bills for hosting the Olympics without reaping many of the economic benefits anticipated.
Just like in the depleted field for the 2022 Winter Games which saw Beijing defeat Almaty, the IOC was left with only two candidates again.
With two powerful cities left vying for 2024, Bach realized France or the U.S. could be deterred from going through another contest for 2028 if they lost. Bach floated the idea in December of making revisions to the bidding process to prevent it producing “too many losers,” building support that led to LA and Paris being able to figure out themselves how to share the 2024 and 2028 Games.
The dual award of the games relieves the IOC of having to test the global interest in hosting the Summer Olympics for several years until the 2032 Games are up for grabs.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2tSvX0U
Company Employment: The Dos & Don’ts Of Interview Questions
With changes to employment law and so much advice about applicant screening, a small business can face challenges. Questions once legitimate and even considered appropriate can be cause for litigation today. This information, plus a few tips, can help you ace the interview with a prospective hire and avoid treading legal hot water.
Applicants must confirm work eligibility
Employment candidates must confirm work eligibility through Form I-9 and documentation. USCIS states, “This includes citizens and noncitizens. Both employees and employers, or authorized representatives of the employer, must complete the form. On the form, an employee must attest to his or her employment authorization. The employee must also present his or her employer with acceptable documents evidencing identity and employment authorization.” Because of Form I-9, employers are spared having to confirm eligibility through questions alluding to race, gender, age, ethnicity and nationality.
Provide job application and written job description
Prevent headaches during the interview process with a completed job application from your candidates. A job application supplements Form I-9 information. The application can request consent to do a background check. Before proceeding with an in-office interview, confirm the application is complete and all I-9 documentation is in place. Be sure to also prepare a list of interview questions and a written job description to further ease the interview process. Before interviewing, consult with an employment specialist if possible.
Keeping the interview job specific
Make sure your questions are job related. Questions such as these are acceptable:
- At your former company, what do you consider to have been your most important accomplishments?
- What did you enjoy most while working for your former employer?
- Why did you leave your former employer?
- How would your experience fit in with a production environment?
- Are you licensed or certified for this type of work?
- Would you be willing to relocate or travel?
- At your previous company, what challenges did you encounter and how were they resolved?
Avoiding the impropriety trap
Employers occasionally commit unintentional breaches of etiquette that can become a legal issue. Some examples are:
- Are you receiving alimony or child support?
- Do you have a nanny or use daycare services?
- Do you have your own health insurance?
- What is your marital status?
- Did you have problems getting to the handicap entrance?
- Where does your family come from?
- Are there personal or family situations that would impact job performance?
- How much medical, family or maternity leave would you require?
- Our new hires must fit the company’s profile.
- What is your religious and political affiliation?
- You’re from a group that has a strong work ethic.
- Aren’t you mature for this position?
- Are you trying to recover from a job loss?
- Would you consent to a DNA sample for drug and alcohol testing?
Skills testing
Although employment testing can be a hiring prerequisite, some types of tests are not permitted. Before administering a job skills test, refer to the EEOC’s policy on employment testing.
Final tips
- Think etiquette, ethics and legality.
- Keep an HR policy manual in your library.
- Get a copy of the EEOC’s Prohibited Employment Policies/Practices.
- Consult with a lawyer who specializes in employment law.
This article was written by Linda Cameron for CBS Small Business Pulse
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2tRNarq
J.B. Pritzker Outlines Plan To Stand Strong Against The President, If Elected Governor
CHICAGO (CBS) — With an assist from Congressman Luis Gutierrez, Democratic candidate for Governor J.B. Pritzker is trying to establish himself as the hopeful who stands strongest against Republican President Donald Trump.
Standing across the river from Chicago’s Trump Tower, Congressman Luis Gutierrez was blunt. He believes President Trump should be impeached, eventually. WBBM’s Political Editor Craig Dellimore reports.
“You do need a certain tipping point before it occurs. But I will tell you something. I think it is coming very, very soon,” Gutierrez said.
Perhaps, he said, if the President fires Special Counsel Robert Mueller, investigating ties to Russia. He praised J.B. Pritzker as someone who would stand against Trump.
JB Pritzker and Cong. Luis Gutierrez speak and greet supporters across from Trump Tower. (WBBM/Craig Dellimore)
Gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker outlined a multi-point plan to resist President Donald Trump with state actions; and he accuses Governor Bruce Rauner of being silent about the President’s policies.
“Where is our Governor? Rauner stands silent as Trump assaults our basic rights,” Pritzker said.
Pritzker said Governor Rauner is silent in the face of President Trump’s policies on healthcare, education, the environment, immigration reform and more. And he said he would resist those policies if he’s elected. But reporters asked how that distinguishes him from the other Democratic hopefuls, who also oppose the President.
“We have put out a real plan, you have it in your hand, of policies that we will put in place that will stand up to Donald Trump. It’s not just about rhetoric. It’s about fact,” Pritzker said. “I also have the longest, strongest history of getting things done for the people of Illinois.”
Governor Rauner did criticize the Republican healthcare plan more than once, but Pritzker said he recently did so only after the plan was defeated.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vYWCuB
Yankees Acquire Sonny Gray From Athletics In Exchange For 3 Prospects
NEW YORK (AP) — Pitcher Sonny Gray has been traded to the Yankees from the Oakland Athletics for three prospects, boosting New York’s starting rotation for an unexpected playoff run.
Oakland gets right-hander James Kaprielian, a former first-round draft recovering from Tommy John surgery; Jorge Mateo, a top prospect who plays shortstop and the outfield; and Dustin Fowler, an outfielder who made his major league debut in June. New York also receives $1.5 million in international signing bonus allocation from the A’s.
The trade Monday was announced less than an hour before the 4 p.m. deadline for making deals without waivers.
Gray slots into the middle of a rotation for the AL East leaders that includes Luis Severino, Masahiro Tanaka, CC Sabathia and Jaime Garcia, who was acquired Sunday from Minnesota.
A 27-year-old right-hander who has been slowed by a series of injuries, Gray is 6-5 with a 3.43 ERA in 16 starts this season and is 4-2 with a 1.37 ERA in his last six starts. He makes $3,575,000, isn’t eligible for free agency until after the 2019 season.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vmoZ92
2017 ACC Football Preview: Coastal Division
Ryan Mayer
College football season is almost here. As you prepare to root for your favorite team on Saturday, we’ll bring you previews of each conference, separating the teams into a couple categories: contenders, bowl teams, and rebuilding. The tiers are fairly self-explanatory. Contenders means these teams will push for the division/conference title. Bowl bidders are expected to be in the conversation for a bowl bid. Rebuilding teams are in the process of attempting to get into contention. At the end, we’ll give you our thoughts on the team’s wins based on Bovada’s Win Totals for the season.
The Coastal is the easier of the two divisions in this conference, but it’s still plenty interesting. Almost every team in the division will be breaking in a new QB. The Hurricanes and Hokies look like the favorites, but it all depends on how quickly the QB situations become settled.
Contenders
Ahmmon Richards #82 of the Miami Hurricanes. Credit: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images
Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes entered last season with high hopes as they had an experience laden team with a three year starting QB, Brad Kaaya, under center. They came out of the gates 4-0, but then dropped four straight games, three of those by a combined eleven points, including a one point loss to Florida State. This season, Kaaya is gone, but there’s a strong cast of returning starters and Miami could make a trip to the ACC title game if they develop a QB quickly.
The ‘Canes have three former three-star recruits at QB on the roster in junior Malik Rosier, sophomore Evan Shirreffs and freshman Cade Weldon. Freshman N’Kosi Perry was a four-star recruit in the 2017 class and he’ll battle for the job alongside the other three. Whoever wins will have last year’s top rusher, junior back Mark Walton, in the backfield with him and they’ll be protected by an offensive line that includes four starters and an LSU transfer in George Brown. The receiver spot is a little bit thinner as Stacy Coley and TE David Njoku departed for the NFL, but top receiver Ahmmon Richards is back for his sophomore year after an amazing debut freshman season (49 receptions 934 yards 3 TD). A lot depends on the QB play in terms of improving on last year’s numbers.
The defense under Manny Diaz in 2016 was one of the better units in the country allowing just 18.5 PPG and 346.8 YPG. The good news is, the front seven that allowed just 132 YPG on the ground returns intact. The bad news is the secondary loses three high quality starters (CB Corn Elder and safeties Rayshawn Jenkins and Jamal Carter) and will be on the younger side this year. Pressure from the front four will help out the back end and this unit has 31.5 out of the 37 sacks they recorded last year.
The ‘Canes get Virginia Tech and Notre Dame at home and their toughest road game will be against Florida State on September 16th. Both the Va. Tech and Notre Dame games are in the second half of the season when whoever wins the QB job will have half a season of starts under their belt. Even without an experienced QB, there’s enough here to think that the ‘Canes will hit the over. Over 9 wins.
Travon McMillian #34 of the Virginia Tech Hokies. Credit: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images
Virginia Tech Hokies
The Justin Fuente era got off to a good start last season with a 10-4 record, an ACC title game appearance, and a Belk Bowl victory. Year 2 will give us a chance to see how Fuente does with a less experienced team. Once again, they’re expected to contend in the division.
QB Jerod Evans left early for the NFL Draft which leaves a hole at the QB spot. Redshirt freshman Joshua Jackson is a former three-star recruit and will battle Nebraska transfer AJ Bush and true freshman (four-star) Hendon Hooker. Evans’ departure also hurts in the run game as Evans was the top rusher last season, but running back Travon McMillian (#2 671 yards 7 TD) is back and the Hokies will hope he can return to 2015 form (1,043 yards 5.2 YPC). A veteran offensive line that returns three starters should help with that. The other big question for this unit comes at receiver as Isaiah Ford, Bucky Hodges (TE) and Sam Rogers all depart. No. 2 receiver Cam Phillips (76 catches 983 yards 5 TD) is back, but with a new QB as well, the passing game may take a step back. Due to the less experienced passing game, I’d expect a drop from last year’s 35 PPG average.
Defensive coordinator Bud Foster enters his 23rd season with an experienced unit returning after ranking 28th in the country at 22.8 PPG allowed. He does have to replace three starting defensive linemen and safety Chuck Clark, but they have an experienced group of linebackers that combined for 284 tackles and 25 TFL last season. That veteran group should help as well as bringing back a pair of young defensive tackles that combined for 13.5 TFL last year. Foster’s defenses are consistently stingy and you can expect more of the same this season.
The schedule is favorable as they get Clemson at home, West Virginia at a neutral site and Miami on the road, but every game outside of that they should be favorites in. That said, they need to pull an upset to beat this number and not lose any of the other games, so I’m not necessarily comfortable with saying they’ll beat that total especially because of the inexperienced passing game. Push 9 wins.
Bowl Teams
Qadree Ollison #37 of the Pittsburgh Panthers. Credit: Joe Sargent/Getty Images
Pittsburgh Panthers- O/U 7 wins
The Panthers were the lone team to beat the national champion Tigers last season and they had one of the best feel-good stories in the country in RB James Conner. They were explosive on offense and porous on defense en route to an 8-5 finish. This season, Coach Narduzzi has a ton of holes to fill on both sides of the ball including replacing Conner, who took the next step to the NFL.
QB Nathan Peterman was one of the less talked about QBs in the country but he was consistently steady for this Panthers group that averaged 40.9 PPG last season completing 60.5 percent of his passes for 2,855 yards and a 27-7 TD-to-INT ratio. He departs and in comes USC transfer Max Browne who will battle with former three-star recruits Ben DiNucci (redshirt sophomore), Thomas MacVittie (redshirt freshman) and Kenny Pickett (true freshman). They’ll have a veteran offensive line with three starters back in front of them and a RB in Qadree Ollison who had a 1,000 yard season in Conner’s absence in 2015. At wide receiver, top target Jester Weah is back along with 5’8″ multi-purpose weapon Quadree Henderson who averaged 10.5 yards per carry (631 yards) on the ground and 11 yards per reception (286 yards) last year. There’s good talent here, but 40 PPG is a high bar to reach. They’ll come in below that this year.
The defense was surprisingly porous last year for a group coached by Narduzzi, who’s considered one of the best defensive minds in the game. The main problem was the pass defense, as they allowed opponents to complete 63.8 percent of their passes for over 333 yards per game. Seven starters are gone from that unit including three along the defensive line. They’ll get some help from Tennessee and Penn State transfers Dewayne Hendrix and Kamonte Carter, but this unit is a big question mark.
Outside of early contests against Penn State and Oklahoma State and the Va. Tech, Miami games to end the year, Pitt’s schedule is manageable. They get NC State and UNC at home and face Ga. Tech, Syracuse and Duke on the road. However, like Va. Tech, they would have to pull an upset or win every game outside of the four games listed above to hit the over. They’re a bowl team, but I have them right at six wins. Under 7 wins.
Credit: Cole Holcomb #36 of the North Carolina Tar Heels tries to stop Daniel Jones #17 of the Duke Blue Devils. Credit: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images
North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels have experienced good success under Coach Fedora with only one losing season (2014, 6-7) in his five years here. Last year, their new QB Mitch Trubisky exploded into the national spotlight with an incredible campaign that ended with him being taken number two overall in the NFL Draft. This year, Fedora needs to replenish multiple skill positions on offense, and the Tar Heels are likely to take a step back from last year’s eight wins.
To replace Mitch Trubisky, Fedora has multiple options at his disposal. A trio of redshirt freshman in Chaz Surratt, Nathan Elliott and Logan Byrd, along with LSU transfer Brandon Harris will compete for the job. The good news for the new QB is the offensive line returns three guys who started the final seven games. The bad news? The top two running backs and three of the top four wide receivers are gone. That’s a lot of inexperience. But, Fedora’s offense lends itself to big numbers and they’ve never scored less than 32 PPG in his tenure. So, expect a similar output this year.
On defense, things are a little more settled for coordinator John Papuchis in his first season. Seven guys are back from last years unit and they get DE Dajuan Drennon back after he missed much of last season due to injury. The biggest strength is the linebacker duo of Cole Holcomb and Andre Smith who combined for 228 tackles and 9 TFL last season. They’ll be helped out by safety Donnie Miles, who was number three on the team in tackles with 102 and leads a secondary that will look to create more turnovers after collecting just one interception against an FBS opponent last year.
The Tar Heels draw Louisville and NC State (away) out of the Atlantic, with intra-division games against Notre Dame, Va. Tech and Miami all coming in October over a four week stretch. That middle part of the season is brutal and while I think they’re a bowl team, like Pitt, I’m not sure they pull the upsets necessary to hit the over. Under 7 wins.
Daniel Jones #17 of the Duke Blue Devils. Credit: Joe Sargent/Getty Images
Duke Blue Devils
Coach Cutcliffe had an impressive three-year run from 2013-15 as the Blue Devils racked up a 27-13 record with three bowl appearances (four straight if you include 2012). Last season, with a freshman QB, the Blue Devils struggled and finished 4-8. This year, the offense brings back seven guys while the defense is more concerning.
Duke is one of only two teams in this division with a returning starter at QB as Daniel Jones is back for his sophomore season following a freshman campaign in which he completed 62.8 percent of his passes for 2,836 yards and 16 TDs. Senior RB Shaun Wilson joins him in the backfield once more and will hope to have better numbers behind an offensive line with three starters back in the fold. Top receiver TJ Rahming (70 receptions 742 yards 1 TD) returns as well, which should make for a unit that tops last year’s 23.3 PPG average.
Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has more work to do with just five starters back after his unit allowed 28.2 PPG last season. He has the benefit of top tacklers Joe Giles-Harris and Ben Humphreys returning, but loses three starters along the defensive line and in the secondary. How quickly those two groups get up to speed will determine whether or not they can match last year’s numbers.
The Blue Devils have just five road games this season and will likely be an underdog in just two of those. They do have to face Miami, Florida State and Pittsburgh all at home while drawing Northwestern and Baylor in the non-conference. The question is whether this will be more like the Duke teams of the 2012-15 run or of the first four years of Cutcliffe’s reign (15-33 from 2008-2011). I lean towards the former, putting them back in a bowl game. Over 5.5 wins.
Rebuilding
Dedrick Mills #26 of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Credit: Justin K. Aller/Getty Images
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Paul Johnson and the Jackets had a nice rebound season in 2016, going 9-4 after a dismal 3-9 season in 2015. This year, Johnson has an experienced group (16 returning starters) but breaking in a new QB and a difficult schedule could keep them out of a bowl.
Three-year starting QB Justin Thomas departs after turning in a season in which he combined for 2,183 yards and 14 TDs. Junior Matt Jordan got some playing time last year and in 2015, so he’s had some in-game experience running Johnson’s offense which will help. He had sophomore Dedrick Mills (No. 1 rusher 771 yards 12 TD) in the backfield with him, behind an offensive line that should be more healthy than last year’s group. Despite the injuries they averaged 258 yards per game and 5.5 yards per carry last season, so those numbers are likely to improve with a healthier line. The top four receivers are back, though they aren’t targeted much in the triple option, they do provide explosiveness as all four guys averaged over 17 yards per catch.
The defense has eight guys back as well including the entire secondary and a pair of starters in the second level of the 4-2-5 with LB Brant Mitchell and NB Lawrence Austin back. The biggest problem last year was an inability to get after the QB as they recorded just 18 sacks for the season. The defensive line loses a pair of starters including one, NT Patrick Gamble, who had 7.5 of those sacks last season.
The Jackets open up with a “neutral site” game against Tennessee in Atlanta, but that’s essentially a home game considering Tech’s campus is all of two miles from the new Falcons stadium. Other than that game, they draw road trips against Miami and Clemson along with home games against Pitt, UNC and Va. Tech. If they handle Pitt and UNC at home, they clear this number. If they don’t? Well, it’s a long season in all likelihood. Under 6.5 wins.
Quarterback Kurt Benkert #6 of the Virginia Cavaliers. Credit: Michael Shroyer/Getty Images
Virginia Cavaliers
The Cavaliers haven’t had a winning season since 2011 and are coming off a 2-10 record in 2016. Bronco Mendenhall enters his second year with a veteran defense, but an inexperienced offense. Combine that with a tough schedule and it could be another long year in Charlottesville.
Like Duke, UVA has a returning starter at QB in senior Kurt Benkert (56.2% 2,552 yards 21 TD 11 INT). He has his top two receiving targets back in junior Olamide Zaccheaus and senior Doni Dowling, but both the offensive line and running back spot have key departures. At running back, both Taquan Mizzell and Albert Reid are gone, leaving behind junior Jordan Ellis who carried just 14 times for 61 yards last season. In the trenches, the Cavaliers have just two returning starters, but they do add a couple of graduate transfers in guards Colin McGovern and John Montelus (Notre Dame) and tackle Brandon Pertile (Oklahoma). Those departures would seem to bode poorly for the run game, but UVA averaged just 114 YPG on the ground last year anyway so, those numbers could go up. Still, I wouldn’t expect too much improvement out of this group in the PPG category (22.5 last year).
The defense will hope to be much stingier with eight starters back from last year’s group that allowed 33.8 PPG and 446.6 YPG. The star is MLB Micah Kiser who racked up 134 tackles with 6.5 sacks and 7 PBU last season. In the second year under the defensive minded Mendenhall, improvement is expected.
The schedule is where the Cavs run into problems. They have to travel to Boise State in the non-conference along with a home date against Indiana. In conference, they have road games against UNC, Pitt, Louisville and Miami, with a home date against the rival Hokies to end the year. That’s seven games that look like potential losses without even considering home dates with Duke, Boston College and Georgia Tech. Mendenhall will have these guys taking a step towards respectability after last year’s 2-10 season, but not enough of one to hit the over. Under 5 wins.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2tSbZmV
Sea Plane That Landed In Lake Michigan Causes Confusion Among First Responders
CHICAGO (CBS) — It’s not every day a plane lands in the middle of Lake Michigan, but that’s exactly what Chicago Fire crews responded to Monday.
Just past noon Chicago Fire was notified of a plane in the water about a mile east of Navy Pier. WBBM’s Beau Duran reports.
When crews arrived on the scene they found a sea plane with Naval markings floating near one of the city’s water cribs. According to pictures released from Chicago Fire Media the pilot appeared jovial and talkative.
After chatting with responders for a few minutes the pilot proceeded to taxi and take off without any issues, but not before causing a bit of confusion and concern for first responders.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vZjvy6
17 Party Buses Shut Down After Violating City Ordinance
CHICAGO (CBS) — Seventeen party bus companies in Chicago are looking at a red light from city officials.
The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection and the Chicago Police Department announced Monday that 17 party bus companies are in violation of the city’s new ordinance cracking down on illegal party buses.
RELATED: Mayor Introduces New City Ordinance To Crack Down On Illegal Party Buses
Following a three-day field investigation, the city sent out cease and desist letters to bus owners. Under the ordinance, to ensure the safety of party bus riders and residents of the communities in which party buses travel passed in April, party buses operating illegally will be subject to minimum fines of $1,000 for a first time violation, which increases to $5,000 for subsequent violations.
Commissioner Rosa Escareno said the increased pressure is meant to protect both passengers and those around them.
“When you have inebriated individuals and you have a busload and now you’re unloading onto an area that’s already congested, it has a recipe for problems,” Escareno said. “Our goal is public safety.”
Police said numerous shootings connected to party buses are just one reason for increased pressure. It targets owners violating the rules meant to keep passengers safe while drinking.
Chief of Organized Crime Anthony Riccio said CPD is determined to hold companies accountable.
“We can point to a number of incidents where the lack of proper measures on party buses lead to violent crimes,” Riccio said. “Sometimes on the bus, sometimes off the bus.”
Rules for party bus operators include keeping an itinerary for each trip and having a security guard on board buses with alcohol. Rules that city officials say many party bus operators are not following.
In late March, the Mayor’s office said there has been increased violence in unlicensed buses, which led to the Mayor’s ordinance.
The office said at least six shootings have happened on party buses in Chicago in the last year and a half. The most part bus-involved shooting occurred earlier this month in Edgewater.
Qeuntin Payton, 28, and Chaz Johnson, 22, died March 12 after an exchange of gunfire between a dark-colored SUV and someone on a party bus; after the bus stopped at the Dunkin Donuts in the 6300 block of North Broadway in Edgewater. Three people were shot, according to police.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2uRcNKc
Border Suburbs Worried About Looming Impact Of Cook County Soda Tax
CHICAGO (CBS) — With two days until Cook County’s penny-per-ounce tax on sweetened beverages goes into effect, border suburbs have been left wondering what impact it will have on their businesses.
Tinley Park, for one, finds itself in both Cook County and Will County. Village administrator Dave Niemeyer said Will County already has lower property taxes, sales taxes, and gas taxes, and he’s concerned the new Cook County tax on sweetened beverages could be the last straw for some business owners who might move elsewhere.
“Gas tax, sales tax, property tax; there’s been the county’s regulations on minimum wage, and I think it’s just a cumulative effect of all of them I think is what frustrates a lot of our Cook County business community,” he said.
Niemeyer said gas stations on the Will County side already make a big deal about lower taxes than Cook County. He noted a gas station on 183rd and Harlem advertises that it does not have Cook County taxes as a way to draw more customers.
“Certainly, I haven’t had anybody say to me that they’re looking at leaving because of this, but I think most people are going to see what happens; but obviously some of the businesses are concerned about it,” he said.
The tax would add a penny per ounce to the cost of buying all sugary soft drinks, lemonades, teas, sports drinks, and sweetened powders and syrups used for fountain drinks in Cook County. It also would include drinks made with artificial sweeteners.
A judge blocked the tax on June 30, one day before it was originally supposed to go into effect, after the Illinois Retail Merchants Association filed a lawsuit challenging the legality and constitutionality of the tax. The judge dismissed that lawsuit on Friday, allowing the county to put the tax into effect, which county officials said will happen Wednesday, barring the possibility IRMA files an appeal and receives another injunction.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2tXH6l9
Steve Bartman Is Receiving A World Series Ring From Cubs
(CBS) Steve Bartman, the Cubs fan who infamously interfered on a key play in Game 6 of 2003 National League Championship Series and became a scapegoat amid Chicago’s eventual meltdown, will receive a 2016 World Series ring from the franchise, the team confirmed.
WGN-TV first reported the news Monday.
“On behalf of the entire Chicago Cubs organization, we are honored to present a 2016 World Series championship ring to Mr. Steve Bartman,” the Cubs told WGN in a statement. “We hope this provides closure on an unfortunate chapter of the story that has perpetuated throughout our quest to win a long-awaited World Series. While no gesture can fully lift the public burden he has endured for more than a decade, we felt it was important Steve knows he has been and continues to be fully embraced by this organization. After all he has sacrificed, we are proud to recognize Steve Bartman with this gift today.”
With the Cubs leading 3-0 in the eighth inning of Game 6 and only needing five outs to advance to the World Series, Bartman interfered with Cubs outfielder Moises Alou on a foul ball down the left-field line. The Marlins followed by plating eight runs to secure a victory and going on to win Game 7 as well. In the aftermath, Alou and manager Dusty Baker insinuated that Alou likely would’ve caught the ball and that the outcome would’ve been different. While there were many, many faults by the Cubs players in the final two games of the NLCS, Bartman became an easy scapegoat.
He’s since maintained a non-existent public profile. He did release a statement to WGN upon news that he’ll receive a World Series ring. In it, he called this gesture “the start of an important healing and reconciliation process for all involved” and asked that everyone continues to respect his privacy.
“I am deeply moved and sincerely grateful to receive an official Chicago Cubs 2016 World Series Championship ring,” it read in part. “I am fully aware of the historical significance and appreciate the symbolism the ring represents on multiple levels. My family and I will cherish it for generations. Most meaningful is the genuine outreach from the Ricketts family, on behalf of the Cubs organization and fans, signifying to me that I am welcomed back into the Cubs family and have their support going forward. I am relieved and hopeful that the saga of the 2003 foul ball incident surrounding my family and me is finally over.”
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vYwgc7
States With Best Schools: Where Illinois, Indiana Rank
CHICAGO (CBS) — When it comes to quality education, Illinois ranks No. 11 nationwide, according to a new study by Wallet Hub.
Massachusetts topped the rankings, while Louisiana ranked last.
Among neighboring states, Wisconsin’s ranked an impressive No. 4, while Iowa ranked No. 9.
Indiana lagged on the list, coming in No. 22.
Wallet Hub said its analysis looked at 21 different metrics that accounted for performance, funding, safety, class size and instructor credentials.
The full rankings:
1 Massachusetts
2 New Jersey
3 New Hampshire
4 Wisconsin
5 Vermont
6 Virginia
7 Minnesota
8 Connecticut
9 Iowa
10 Maine
11 Illinois
12 Delaware
13 North Carolina
14 Colorado
15 Kansas
16 Pennsylvania
17 Utah
18 Oklahoma
19 Maryland
20 North Dakota
21 Florida
22 Indiana
23 Ohio
24 Washington
25 Rhode Island
26 New York
27 Kentucky
28 California
29 Montana
30 Nebraska
31 Missouri
32 Michigan
33 Wyoming
34 Texas
35 South Carolina
36 Idaho
37 South Dakota
38 Georgia
39 Hawaii
40 Nevada
41 Arizona
42 Tennessee
43 Oregon
44 Alabama
45 Alaska
46 Arkansas
47 Mississippi
48 District of Columbia
49 West Virginia
50 New Mexico
51 Louisiana
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2vfpQr1
Baffoe: All Of The Cubs Prospects Are Gone, And So Is My Soul
By Tim Baffoe–
(CBS) I sort of feel like Jimmy Conway at the telephone booth after Tommy DeVito got whacked in Goodfellas.
Jimmy Conway: You get it straightened out?
Vinnie: No, we had a problem… and uh, we tried to do everything we could.
Jimmy Conway: What do you mean?
Vinnie: Well, you know what I mean. He’s gone, and we couldn’t do nothing about it… That’s it.
On Sunday night, the first-place Cubs agreed to trade prospects Jeimer Candelario and Isaac Paredes and cash or a player to be named later for to the Tigers for reliever Justin Wilson and catcher Alex Avila in an attempt to win their second consecutive World Series. Candelario is the last of the vaunted Cubs prospects to leave their farm system in this torturous plan of the Theo Epstein/Jed Hoyer regime.
What do I have to look forward to now? I’m going on six straight seasons of random injections of joy and adrenaline with prospect call-ups that began with Anthony Rizzo in June 2012. Now what?
There’s no Dan Vogelbach to trigger my Pavlovian salivations. Nothing is left to set fire to my loins like the idea of an Eloy Jimenez moving up to Double-A ball.
I’m suppressing whimpers and kicking the phone booth over.
Des Moines, Knoxville, Myrtle Beach — these cosmopolitan cities full of mystique hold no meaning to me now. I’ve let my travel agent know to cross them off any potential lists if I ever find the strength to leave my home again after this.
It’s difficult to remember what life was like before the Cubs loaded up their farm system and, thus, my very soul. Now both are bereft of the very fabric that gave them meaning. Of what is a life without prospects?
Two weeks ago, it was pointed out to Epstein that his organization no longer had anyone in the system ranked in the top 100 by Baseball America.
“And it’s the first time we can call ourselves defending world champions,” he retorted without any shred of sympathy.
“That’s a lot better than having some top-100 prospects.”
You monster. You cruel Victor Frankenstein, taking a corpse of a franchise and electrifying it without the sweet lifeblood of prospects only to turn your back on the whole thing when all it wanted was your love.
So who is Aramis Ademan?
“Compared to top prospects we’ve had in the past like Gleyber (Torres), he’s got nothing to envy Gleyber on defensively,” Cubs infield coordinator Jose Flores said of Ademan.
Why would you open a wound on me like that, dude? And what about Albertos?
“With the stuff he has, he can be a No. 1 in the big leagues,” Mesa rookie ball pitching coach Armando Gambino said of Albertos. “With a couple of years of development in the minor leagues, there’s no doubt he’s going to be the guy.”
That’s nice, but I need rankings. I need arbitrary numbers assigned to these names whose faces I don’t recognize, man.
Yes, the name Adbert Alzolay and name alone excited me when the late John Arguello first introduced me to it.
But Arguello and Dave DeFreitas wrote the following in May in their “2017 Cubs Organizational Review” of prospects:
One of the more unknown Cubs’ pitching prospects, Alzolay hasn’t developed quickly enough to warrant a lot of attention, nor does he have the physical attributes or prospect pedigree that bring scouts flocking to see his starts. But Alzolay is another good athlete with a loose frame and a live arm that allow him to generate above-average velocity despite a less-than-imposing frame. He’ll pitch in the 93-to-95 mph with his four- seam fastball but he’ll cut the pitch at times to add movement, while sacrificing about five mph off the velo. Alzolay also throws a solid-average curveball and changeup. He’s off to a good start in 2017, perhaps better than anyone on this list and that can be attributed simply to experience and physical maturation. Alzolay looks to have gotten stronger this year and added some lean muscle weight, which should help him better sustain his velocity late in games. He also has a pretty good feel for pitching and has the aptitude to keep building on that knowledge. Of all the pitchers on this list, Alzolay is the sleeper of the bunch. He projects as a number four or number five starter.
Sorry, but I need video of prospects hitting dingers off light towers to feed me spiritually. Not intelligent, diligent scouting reports that will be sorely missed, among other things, with Arguello’s passing this weekend.
Now that Avila's here, I'm guessing you can watch Caratini. You can say you saw the vaunted CARASITI/CARATINI battery! Must watch!
— (((Mike McElwee))) (@MJMcElwee) July 31, 2017
I appreciate all these attempts to lift me up, but don’t bother. Just as it took years to replenish the desert on the farm that Epstein and Hoyer inherited, it will take that or longer to irrigate my insides that have been left infertile with the salt of weeping over what was and is no more.
Like the Cubs household name prospects in the minor leagues, my reason for baseball being is gone, and you can’t do nothing about it. That’s it.
Tim Baffoe is a columnist for CBSChicago.com. Follow Tim on Twitter @TimBaffoe. The views expressed on this page are those of the author, not CBS Local Chicago or our affiliated television and radio stations.
from CBS Chicago http://ift.tt/2ucW6Hf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)