chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--COVID-19 and crime team up against Chicago’s reputation

The summer of our discontent is waning .
It is giving way to an autumn of reckoning , maybe dread for some .
The pandemic still prowls the land , the economy is in shambles and will get worse if Congress lets the layoff chain spread to new industries .
We ’ re fast approaching an election that ’ s making us confront our national divisions .
It can be a time of raw anger in a country incapable of having a civil discussion of differences , and people are afraid of what might result , whether it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ edge and making bad decisions , or 17-year-olds carrying semi-automatics .
But hey , it ’ s almost Labor Day , so to those who have worked from home , y ’ all headed back to the office ?
That was the refrain early in this pandemic , during a more hopeful spring .
Now the signs say a lot of people don ’ t want much to do with the office if that means heading into the city .
COVID-19 is just one reason why .
Managers of downtown office buildings tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 10 % of their population on a typical workday .
They expect a little more activity after Labor Day , but how much could depend on school situations .
With remote learning mostly the norm in the city and suburbs , working parents need to supervise their children .
Biggies such as Google and Facebook have extended voluntary work-from-home policies through July 2021 , and other employers have gone at least to next January .
“ There are days I see more boat traffic on the river than cars on the streets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president of Hines Interests and president of the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago , which has worked closely with the city to make sure health guidelines are followed and properties are ready for more people .
For Knez , the bottom line is this , “ For people to come back to work , employers and employees must first feel safe.
” That applies both to office cleaning regimens and to what ’ s going on outside .
Vicki Noonan , managing principal at Cushman & Wakefield , said she hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day , at least gradually .
Some employers have talked about putting people on an alternate-day schedule for working from home , she said .
Noonan , a CTA rider , said the transit agencies need to do a better job explaining how clean the systems are to allay some concerns .
As for safety , she said , “ I can say some of our people are saying living in the city is becoming harder.
” “ I believe in the urban core , ” Noonan said , but investors and developers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and companies here are postponing expansion decisions .
COVID-19 and civil unrest lead off the reasons , but investors also are put off by a crisis in government finances and by public pension debt , she said .
A June survey by the real estate firm CBRE of its national , big-company client base addressed the changing character of work .
In it , 61 % of 126 senior-level executives said all employees will be able to work outside the office at least part time .
It also found only 10 % of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , although satellite offices or flexible space deals may figure more prominently .
So don ’ t expect downtown or other business centers to roar back to life soon .
The implications for Chicago ’ s commercial health and for our feelings about living here are enormous .
The problems of the pandemic and violence are woven in the public mind .
Aldermen and reporters ’ inboxes have gotten complaints the city has gotten out of control and people are afraid to be downtown or go to many places in their communities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ news , but the anger is spreading .
The remarks about downtown haven ’ t been like that since the 1970s .
Steven Levy , president of Sudler Property Management , sent a letter Aug. 12 to Mayor Lori Lightfoot that was made public .
He told Lightfoot the residents in the more than 100 condo associations he serves don ’ t feel safe , and he appealed for her help .
“ They ’ re avoiding neighborhood walks after 6 p.m. , ” Levy wrote .
“ At night , they don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ windows or dare to enjoy their outdoor balconies or terraces .
Their children , who will likely be homebound for the remainder of the year , are forced to play indoors because local parks and playgrounds have been inhabited with litter , vandalism and crime .
“ This is not a way to live , and I can ’ t fault homeowners when they tell me they ’ re considering leaving Chicago.
” The departing summer finds the city ’ s reputation in doubt .
Lightfoot , who fairly or not is in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might find the pandemic alone isn ’ t her biggest worry .

The summer of our discontent is waning. It is giving way to an autumn of reckoning, maybe dread for some.
The pandemic still prowls the land, the economy is in shambles and will get worse if Congress lets the layoff chain spread to new industries. We’re fast approaching an election that’s making us confront our national divisions. It can be a time of raw anger in a country incapable of having a civil discussion of differences, and people are afraid of what might result, whether it’s more of the looting, police on edge and making bad decisions, or 17-year-olds carrying semi-automatics.
But hey, it’s almost Labor Day, so to those who have worked from home, y’all headed back to the office? That was the refrain early in this pandemic, during a more hopeful spring. Now the signs say a lot of people don’t want much to do with the office if that means heading into the city. COVID-19 is just one reason why.
Managers of downtown office buildings tell me their properties have about 5% to 10% of their population on a typical workday. They expect a little more activity after Labor Day, but how much could depend on school situations.
With remote learning mostly the norm in the city and suburbs, working parents need to supervise their children. Biggies such as Google and Facebook have extended voluntary work-from-home policies through July 2021, and other employers have gone at least to next January.
“There are days I see more boat traffic on the river than cars on the streets,” said Lance Knez, vice president of Hines Interests and president of the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago, which has worked closely with the city to make sure health guidelines are followed and properties are ready for more people.
For Knez, the bottom line is this, “For people to come back to work, employers and employees must first feel safe.” That applies both to office cleaning regimens and to what’s going on outside.
Chicago Enterprise bug Chicago Enterprise
Vicki Noonan, managing principal at Cushman & Wakefield, said she hopes more tenants will populate buildings after Labor Day, at least gradually. Some employers have talked about putting people on an alternate-day schedule for working from home, she said.
Noonan, a CTA rider, said the transit agencies need to do a better job explaining how clean the systems are to allay some concerns. As for safety, she said, “I can say some of our people are saying living in the city is becoming harder.”
“I believe in the urban core,” Noonan said, but investors and developers are finding it easy to bypass Chicago and companies here are postponing expansion decisions. COVID-19 and civil unrest lead off the reasons, but investors also are put off by a crisis in government finances and by public pension debt, she said.
A June survey by the real estate firm CBRE of its national, big-company client base addressed the changing character of work. In it, 61% of 126 senior-level executives said all employees will be able to work outside the office at least part time. It also found only 10% of companies are considering leaving high-density urban cores, although satellite offices or flexible space deals may figure more prominently.
So don’t expect downtown or other business centers to roar back to life soon. The implications for Chicago’s commercial health and for our feelings about living here are enormous. The problems of the pandemic and violence are woven in the public mind.
Aldermen and reporters’ inboxes have gotten complaints the city has gotten out of control and people are afraid to be downtown or go to many places in their communities. For some, that’s old news, but the anger is spreading. The remarks about downtown haven’t been like that since the 1970s.
Steven Levy, president of Sudler Property Management, sent a letter Aug. 12 to Mayor Lori Lightfoot that was made public. He told Lightfoot the residents in the more than 100 condo associations he serves don’t feel safe, and he appealed for her help.
“They’re avoiding neighborhood walks after 6 p.m.,” Levy wrote. “At night, they don’t stand too close to their windows or dare to enjoy their outdoor balconies or terraces. Their children, who will likely be homebound for the remainder of the year, are forced to play indoors because local parks and playgrounds have been inhabited with litter, vandalism and crime.
“This is not a way to live, and I can’t fault homeowners when they tell me they’re considering leaving Chicago.”
The departing summer finds the city’s reputation in doubt. Lightfoot, who fairly or not is in the front lines for all this, might find the pandemic alone isn’t her biggest worry.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--CPS would provide free child care during remote learning under proposal

Chicago officials are working on a plan to provide free child care for at least the first quarter of the upcoming school year as a return to remote learning is again expected to strain working class families during the pandemic .
Chicago Public Schools officials are surveying families ’ needs as they figure out the details of the plan , which they say will include sites across the city where parents can drop off their children to do their school work during the day .
The priority deadline to respond to the survey is Sept. 1 .
To start , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ younger than 14 , those living in under-resourced communities and families without a permanent home .
Under the potential plan , students would be assigned to spaces with kids of the same age group and an adult who will supervise the children but won ’ t be an educator who could help with learning .
The number of people in each space would be limited , and children and staff would be required to wear masks , practice social distancing and complete a daily symptom screening .
Families would follow a staggered schedule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up and drop off their children .
Breakfast and lunch would be provided every day , as would high-speed internet .
Computers won ’ t be distributed at the learning sites .
Mayor Lori Lightfoot and CPS CEO Janice Jackson have long said one of their biggest concerns with remote learning is that it leaves families with little options for child care .
Many CPS parents continue to work in-person jobs to support their families and can ’ t afford to stay home with their children while they complete schoolwork .
As far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced its initial plans for most students to learn in school two days every week , Lightfoot said the city was looking into options for child care similar to a plan announced by New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio that would provide free services for parents of 100,000 students in that city .
It ’ s unclear which adults would staff the learning sites in Chicago and if the locations would be at schools or Chicago Park District sites .
A CPS spokeswoman didn ’ t immediately respond to questions .

Chicago officials are working on a plan to provide free child care for at least the first quarter of the upcoming school year as a return to remote learning is again expected to strain working class families during the pandemic.
Chicago Public Schools officials are surveying families’ needs as they figure out the details of the plan, which they say will include sites across the city where parents can drop off their children to do their school work during the day. The priority deadline to respond to the survey is Sept. 1.
To start, CPS says it’ll prioritize children younger than 14, those living in under-resourced communities and families without a permanent home.
La Voz Sidebar 2023 Lea este artículo en español en La Voz Chicago.
Under the potential plan, students would be assigned to spaces with kids of the same age group and an adult who will supervise the children but won’t be an educator who could help with learning.
The number of people in each space would be limited, and children and staff would be required to wear masks, practice social distancing and complete a daily symptom screening. Families would follow a staggered schedule and be assigned a time to pick up and drop off their children.
Breakfast and lunch would be provided every day, as would high-speed internet. Computers won’t be distributed at the learning sites.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot and CPS CEO Janice Jackson have long said one of their biggest concerns with remote learning is that it leaves families with little options for child care. Many CPS parents continue to work in-person jobs to support their families and can’t afford to stay home with their children while they complete schoolwork.
As far back as mid-July, when the city announced its initial plans for most students to learn in school two days every week, Lightfoot said the city was looking into options for child care similar to a plan announced by New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio that would provide free services for parents of 100,000 students in that city.
It’s unclear which adults would staff the learning sites in Chicago and if the locations would be at schools or Chicago Park District sites. A CPS spokeswoman didn’t immediately respond to questions.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--55 shot, 10 fatally, in Chicago weekend gun violence

Ten people were killed and 44 more , including two Chicago police officers and a 15-year-old boy , were wounded in shootings across Chicago over the weekend .
Ahead of the weekend , Chicago police braced for protests in the city in the wake of civil unrest north of the Illinois border sparked by the Kenosha police shooting of Jacob Blake .
The department ’ s new Critical Incident Response team , consisting of about 200 officers , was deployed downtown .
Seven people were arrested at a Black Lives Matter protest at Loyola University Saturday , while a march @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Last weekend , 66 people were shot throughout the city , five of them fatally .
• The latest fatal attack left one man dead and four other people injured Sunday afternoon at a restaurant in Morgan Park .
About 1:50 p.m. , a man was dining under a tent at Lumes Pancake House , 11601 S. Western Ave. , when a white-colored SUV pulled up and someone inside fired shots in his direction , Chicago police and fire officials said .
The 31-year-old was struck multiple times and taken to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dead .
Police believe he was the intended target .
Four other people were also struck , police said .
A man and woman , both 32 , were shot in their legs and taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn , where they were stabilized .
A 43-year-old woman was shot in the abdomen and buttocks and taken to the same hospital , where she was also stabilized .
Another woman , 30 , was shot in the foot .
She was in good condition at Little Company of Mary Hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man was killed and a woman was injured in Gresham on the South Side .
The 34-year-old man was standing outside about 5 a.m. in the 1100 block of West 87th Street when two males approached and opened fire , police said .
He was hit multiple times in the face and upper body and taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn , where he died .
The woman , 36 , was standing just inside the doorway of a nearby home when she was shot in the foot .
She was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Mary Hospital .
• Less than two hours before that , another man was shot to death in Back of the Yards on the South Side .
Chauncey Ali Jr. , 29 , was shot in the head while leaving a party about 3:40 a.m. in the 900 block of West Garfield Boulevard , police and the Cook County medical examiner ’ s office said .
He was pronounced dead at the University of Chicago Medical Center .
• About an hour and a half earlier , another man was found shot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responding to ShotSpotter alerts for eight gunshots at 2:09 a.m. found the 61-year-old man on a parkway in the 8400 block of South Commercial Avenue with a gunshot wound to his head , according to police .
He was pronounced dead at the scene .
Two men were killed within hours of each other Saturday in Englewood .
• A 54-year-old man was shot in the back about 8:20 p.m. while driving in the 6200 block of South Racine Avenue , police said .
He was taken to the University of Chicago Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ About five hours earlier , officers responding to a call of a person shot found 40-year-old Jason Carson unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the chest in the 5600 block of South Emerald Avenue , authorities said .
He was also taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center , where he was pronounced dead .
Four people were killed in less than two hours Friday evening across the city .
Two of those people died just minutes apart in separate shootings in Burnside and Humboldt Park .
• In Burnside , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sidewalk about 8:38 p.m. in the 800 block of East 88th Place when they heard shots and felt pain , police said .
The female , whose age wasn ’ t immediately known , was shot in the torso and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center , where she died .
The 31-year-old was shot in her thigh and taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn in fair condition .
• Less than 10 minutes earlier , one man was shot to death and another was wounded at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were at a gas station in the 900 block of North Pulaski Road around 8:30 p.m. when someone drove up and shot them , police said .
A 21-year-old man , struck multiple times , was pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital .
The other man , 20 , later showed up there and was treated for a gunshot wound to a shoulder .
He was in good condition .
• A man was killed and a woman was critically wounded in a shooting just over an hour earlier in Back of the Yards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a third person about 7:17 p.m. in the 900 block of West 50th Street when someone in a passing SUV unleashed gunfire , police said .
A 39-year-old man was shot multiple times and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center , where he was pronounced dead .
A 66-year-old woman was struck in the shoulder and taken to the same hospital in critical condition .
• About 15 minutes earlier , a man was fatally shot in Mayfair on the Northwest Side .
He was on the sidewalk about 7 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Avenue when someone approached in a dark-colored SUV and opened fire , police said .
The 18-year-old was struck in the abdomen and chest , and died at Illinois Masonic Medical Center .
Two Chicago police officers and a teenage boy were among the dozens of people injured by gunfire over the weekend .
• The officers were shot and the suspected gunman was wounded by police early Sunday after a traffic stop in Homan Square on the West Side .
The shooting happened at 2:33 a.m. in the 3300 block of West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers were taken to Stroger Hospital by other police officers .
One officer was shot twice on the left side and was in serious condition , officials said .
He underwent surgery for lung and abdominal injuries , and was still in hospital care Sunday evening .
The other officer suffered a gunshot wound to his left shoulder and was in good condition .
He was released from the hospital Sunday afternoon .
The suspect was taken to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood in fair condition .
Authorities expect all three to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot Sunday evening in Woodlawn on the South Side .
Someone in a silver sedan shot the 15-year-old about 8:30 p.m. as he walked in the 1200 block of East 63rd Street , police said .
The teen was dropped off at Jackson Park Hospital in critical condition .
At least 34 other people were injured by gunfire in Chicago between 5 p.m. Friday and 5 a.m. Monday .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

Ten people were killed and 45 more, including two Chicago police officers and a 15-year-old boy, were wounded in shootings across Chicago over the weekend.
Ahead of the weekend, Chicago police braced for protests in the city in the wake of civil unrest north of the Illinois border sparked by the Kenosha police shooting of Jacob Blake. The department’s new Critical Incident Response team, consisting of about 200 officers, was deployed downtown. Seven people were arrested at a Black Lives Matter protest at Loyola University Saturday, while a march downtown that day ended with no arrests.
Last weekend, 66 people were shot throughout the city, five of them fatally.
Sunday
The latest fatal attack left one man dead and four other people injured Sunday afternoon at a restaurant in Morgan Park. About 1:50 p.m., a man was dining under a tent at Lumes Pancake House, 11601 S. Western Ave., when a white-colored SUV pulled up and someone inside fired shots in his direction, Chicago police and fire officials said. Devon Welsh, 31, was struck multiple times and taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police and the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. Authorities believe he was the intended target.
Four other people were also struck, police said. A man and woman, both 32, were shot in their legs and taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where they were stabilized. A 43-year-old woman was shot in the abdomen and buttocks and taken to the same hospital, where she was also stabilized. Another woman, 30, was shot in the foot. She was in good condition at Little Company of Mary Hospital.
Four other people were also struck, police said. A man and woman, both 32, were shot in their legs and taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where they were stabilized. A 43-year-old woman was shot in the abdomen and buttocks and taken to the same hospital, where she was also stabilized. Another woman, 30, was shot in the foot. She was in good condition at Little Company of Mary Hospital. Earlier that morning, a man was killed and a woman was injured in Gresham on the South Side. The 34-year-old man was standing outside about 5 a.m. in the 1100 block of West 87th Street when two males approached and opened fire, police said. He was hit multiple times in the face and upper body and taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where he died. The woman, 36, was standing just inside the doorway of a nearby home when she was shot in the foot. She was taken in fair condition to Little Company of Mary Hospital.
Less than two hours before that, another man was shot to death in Back of the Yards on the South Side. Chauncey Ali Jr., 29, was shot in the head while leaving a party about 3:40 a.m. in the 900 block of West Garfield Boulevard, police and the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. He was pronounced dead at the University of Chicago Medical Center.
About an hour and a half earlier, another man was found shot to death in South Chicago. Officers responding to ShotSpotter alerts for eight gunshots at 2:09 a.m. found the 61-year-old man on a parkway in the 8400 block of South Commercial Avenue with a gunshot wound to his head, according to police. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Saturday
Two men were killed within hours of each other Saturday in Englewood.
A 54-year-old man was shot in the back about 8:20 p.m. while driving in the 6200 block of South Racine Avenue, police said. He was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he died.
About five hours earlier, officers responding to a call of a person shot found 40-year-old Jason Carson unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the chest in the 5600 block of South Emerald Avenue, authorities said. He was also taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Friday night
Four people were killed in less than two hours Friday evening across the city. Two of those people died just minutes apart in separate shootings in Burnside and Humboldt Park.
In Burnside, a 31-year-old woman and another female were on the sidewalk about 8:38 p.m. in the 800 block of East 88th Place when they heard shots and felt pain, police said. The female, whose age wasn’t immediately known, was shot in the torso and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where she died. The 31-year-old was shot in her thigh and taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn in fair condition.
Less than 10 minutes earlier, one man was shot to death and another was wounded at a gas station in Humboldt Park. They were at a gas station in the 900 block of North Pulaski Road around 8:30 p.m. when someone drove up and shot them, police said. Jamil Williamson, 21, was struck multiple times and pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital, authorities said. The other man, 20, later showed up there and was treated for a gunshot wound to a shoulder. He was in good condition.
A man was killed and a woman was critically wounded in a shooting just over an hour earlier in Back of the Yards. They were on a porch with a third person about 7:17 p.m. in the 900 block of West 50th Street when someone in a passing SUV unleashed gunfire, police said. A 39-year-old man was shot multiple times and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. A 66-year-old woman was struck in the shoulder and taken to the same hospital in critical condition.
About 15 minutes earlier, a man was fatally shot in Mayfair on the Northwest Side. He was on the sidewalk about 7 p.m. in the 4600 block of North Kasson Avenue when someone approached in a dark-colored SUV and opened fire, police said. The 18-year-old was struck in the abdomen and chest, and died at Illinois Masonic Medical Center.
Nonfatal shootings
Two Chicago police officers and a teenage boy were among the dozens of people injured by gunfire over the weekend.
The officers were shot and the suspected gunman was wounded by police early Sunday after a traffic stop in Homan Square on the West Side. The shooting happened at 2:33 a.m. in the 3300 block of West Polk Street, police said. Both officers were taken to Stroger Hospital by other police officers. One officer was shot twice on the left side and was in serious condition, officials said. He underwent surgery for lung and abdominal injuries, and was still in hospital care Sunday evening. The other officer suffered a gunshot wound to his left shoulder and was in good condition. He was released from the hospital Sunday afternoon. The suspect was taken to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood in fair condition. Authorities expect all three to survive.
A teenage boy was shot Sunday evening in Woodlawn on the South Side. Someone in a silver sedan shot the 15-year-old about 8:30 p.m. as he walked in the 1200 block of East 63rd Street, police said. The teen was dropped off at Jackson Park Hospital in critical condition.
At least 34 other people were injured by gunfire in Chicago between 5 p.m. Friday and 5 a.m. Monday.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Bears camp: Analyzing the top issues as the opener looms

With the Bears ’ Sept. 13 opener looming , Sun-Times ’ Bears expert Patrick Finley examines what he ’ s seen so far in training camp : Unsettled , and will be even after the Bears name a starter .
Coach Matt Nagy has been clear the competition won ’ t end once the season begins .
The Bears ’ first two games should set the starter up for success .
If they don ’ t , though , the starter will be looking over his shoulder before the leaves start to turn .
Who will start at running back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a technicality — in each of the past two seasons , Nagy has lined up his team in the franchise ’ s famed T-formation for the first play of the year .
Presuming David Montgomery can ’ t return in time for the Lions game , plan on the Bears using a platoon , with Cordarrelle Patterson leading the team in carries with , say , 12 .
To produce an above-average offense after hiring three new assistants to help chart a new direction ; racing through a short offseason in which two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been underwhelming in doing so ; and despite the fact that receiver Allen Robinson has been nursing an ankle problem and Montgomery a groin injury .
If he can pull it off , the Bears ’ defense can carry it the rest of the way .
But we said that last year , too .
What problem have the Bears solved in training camp ?
They have only one tight end on the roster who began last year ’ s training camp with them .
The new tight ends have a limbo-low @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bears had the league ’ s worst unit last year — but seem up to the task .
Jimmy Graham could be a dangerous red-zone weapon , while Notre Dame rookie Cole Kmet and free agent signing Demetrius Harris are upgrades over Adam Shaheen at the in-line “ Y ” spot .
Even J.P. Holtz and Eric Saubert look like they ’ ll contribute .
The quarterbacks , of course .
Unless Nick Foles or Mitch Trubisky shock the league by being the best version of themselves for months at a time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t on the roster .
Presuming general manager Ryan Pace survives to make the decision , would the Bears trade for a veteran again next offseason ?
Or move up in the first round again ?
Who has impressed you the most ?
Roquan Smith has played most of the team ’ s padded practices without Akiem Hicks — who has a quad injury — there to keep blockers off of him .
You can ’ t tell .
Smith looks fast and rangy , and every bit the star the Bears believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jaylon Johnson will make the biggest impact this season , but he ’ s been limited in team drills while he works back from March shoulder surgery .
So I ’ ll take receiver Darnell Mooney , who ’ s learned the playbook quickly and doesn ’ t seem intimidated by the NFL .
His speed makes him a difference-maker .

With the Bears’ Sept. 13 opener looming, Sun-Times’ Bears expert Patrick Finley examines what he’s seen so far in training camp:
The Bears quarterback situation is …
Unsettled, and will be even after the Bears name a starter. Coach Matt Nagy has been clear the competition won’t end once the season begins. The Bears’ first two games should set the starter up for success. If they don’t, though, the starter will be looking over his shoulder before the leaves start to turn.
Who will start at running back?
Tarik Cohen and Cordarrelle Patterson on a technicality — in each of the past two seasons, Nagy has lined up his team in the franchise’s famed T-formation for the first play of the year. Presuming David Montgomery can’t return in time for the Lions game, plan on the Bears using a platoon, with Cordarrelle Patterson leading the team in carries with, say, 12.
Matt Nagy’s biggest challenge is …
To produce an above-average offense after hiring three new assistants to help chart a new direction; racing through a short offseason in which two quarterbacks had to share snaps, and have been underwhelming in doing so; and despite the fact that receiver Allen Robinson has been nursing an ankle problem and Montgomery a groin injury. If he can pull it off, the Bears’ defense can carry it the rest of the way. But we said that last year, too.
What problem have the Bears solved in training camp?
They have only one tight end on the roster who began last year’s training camp with them. The new tight ends have a limbo-low bar to clear this season — the Bears had the league’s worst unit last year — but seem up to the task. Jimmy Graham could be a dangerous red-zone weapon, while Notre Dame rookie Cole Kmet and free agent signing Demetrius Harris are upgrades over Adam Shaheen at the in-line “Y” spot. Even J.P. Holtz and Eric Saubert look like they’ll contribute.
What problem looms?
The quarterbacks, of course. Unless Nick Foles or Mitch Trubisky shock the league by being the best version of themselves for months at a time, the Bears’ 2021 starter isn’t on the roster. Presuming general manager Ryan Pace survives to make the decision, would the Bears trade for a veteran again next offseason? Or move up in the first round again?
Who has impressed you the most?
Roquan Smith has played most of the team’s padded practices without Akiem Hicks — who has a quad injury — there to keep blockers off of him. You can’t tell. Smith looks fast and rangy, and every bit the star the Bears believe he can be.
This rookie stands out …
I believe cornerback Jaylon Johnson will make the biggest impact this season, but he’s been limited in team drills while he works back from March shoulder surgery. So I’ll take receiver Darnell Mooney, who’s learned the playbook quickly and doesn’t seem intimidated by the NFL. His speed makes him a difference-maker.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--North Chicago cop fires at armed man after traffic stop: officials

No one was injured when a North Chicago police officer shot at a man after a traffic stop Saturday in the north suburb .
The officer stopped a vehicle after the driver showed “ signs of impairment ” about 8:50 p.m. in North Chicago , according to a statement from the Lake County sheriff ’ s office .
The driver allegedly tried to elude the officer before pulling over near 24th Street and Dickey Avenue .
The man got out of the car , “ ignored the officer ’ s commands to put his hands up , and appeared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waistband , ” the sheriff ’ s office said .
The officer fired his gun and the man ran away .
Police set up a perimeter around the area and took the man into custody a short time later , authorities said .
A semi-automatic pistol was found in the area where he ’ d been hiding .
No one was hit by gunfire during the incident , the sheriff ’ s office said .
The man remains in custody with charges pending .
The Lake County Major Crime Task Force is investigating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chicago officer .
The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending a review of the incident .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

No one was injured when a North Chicago police officer shot at a man after a traffic stop Saturday in the north suburb.
The officer stopped a vehicle after the driver showed “signs of impairment” about 8:50 p.m. in North Chicago, according to a statement from the Lake County sheriff’s office. The driver allegedly tried to elude the officer before pulling over near 24th Street and Dickey Avenue.
The man got out of the car, “ignored the officer’s commands to put his hands up, and appeared to be reaching for a firearm in his waistband,” the sheriff’s office said. The officer fired his gun and the man ran away.
Police set up a perimeter around the area and took the man into custody a short time later, authorities said. A semi-automatic pistol was found in the area where he’d been hiding.
No one was hit by gunfire during the incident, the sheriff’s office said. The man remains in custody with charges pending.
The Lake County Major Crime Task Force is investigating the use of force by the North Chicago officer. The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending a review of the incident.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-30--Horoscope for Monday, August 31, 2020

Horoscope for Monday, August 31, 2020

There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions .
The moon is in Aquarius .
It ’ s Monday , the beginning of the week , which makes you think about your future .
Not a bad idea , especially in these uncertain times .
With Mars in your sign , you have energy !
With Jupiter at the top of your chart , your reputation is stellar .
You ’ re a winner .
You are high visibility .
People are talking about you ; and some might know personal details about your private life .
Even though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you are staying under the radar .
Be aware of this scrutiny .
Today you want to do something different .
You feel you need to break out and run for freedom !
It makes sense because you have had a lot of focus on home , family and your private life .
You might also be involved with home repairs more than usual .
Do something different today !
You ’ re in busy mode .
You ’ re making lists , talking to people and planning errands and appointments .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ than usual , as well .
Spend some time tying up loose details about shared property , inheritances and debt .
You ’ ll be glad you did .
Money and money-making ideas are on your mind .
You ’ re also thinking about possible travel plans .
However , be aware that today you have to go more than halfway when dealing with others because the moon is opposite your sign .
Be cooperative .
This is a powerful week for you because the sun and Mercury are in your sign .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will help you in disputes about shared property and inheritances .
Even though friends are supportive , today you might have to perform a service for someone or help someone out .
You are happy to continue in a low-key fashion by working alone or behind the scenes this week .
Fortunately , relations with bosses , parents and VIPs are excellent .
Today is a playful day .
You feel flirtatious .
You will enjoy the company of your kids ; however , be patient !
( Mars opposite your sign .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , popular schedule today to focus on home , family and perhaps a female relative .
You have lots of energy to get stuff done and things are going well .
Nevertheless , today you need to pull in your reins and focus on personal matters .
Bosses , parents and teachers admire you !
( Obviously , you can use this to your advantage this week if you need to open some doors or get approval or permission or something . )
Gifts , money and support from others will come your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keen to share your ideas with someone .
Despite your desire to “ get away from all this ” and , hopefully , travel or find a refreshing change of scenery , today you are thinking about money , cash flow and your possessions .
Tidy up some loose ends .
Indeed , tidy up your possessions !
Because the moon is still in your sign today , you might have heightened emotions or magnified reactions to what other people say and do .
By tomorrow , this energy will be gone and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — relatively speaking .
Don ’ t jump to conclusions today .
Today you will prefer to hide somewhere and get some private time so you can catch your breath .
Yes , it ’ s Monday , and everyone is raring to go , but you want to sleep in .
Literally or metaphorically .
Take it easy .
Slowly , slowly .
If Your Birthday Is Today Actor Richard Gere ( 1949 ) shares your birthday .
You are honest , trustworthy and skillful in dealing with others .
This year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a new direction , which could be crucial for your success next year .
It ’ s a time of learning and perhaps teaching as well .
Explore meditation , yoga or any discipline that helps you get a better understanding of who you are .
Invest in your future self .

Moon Alert
There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions. The moon is in Aquarius.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
It’s Monday, the beginning of the week, which makes you think about your future. Not a bad idea, especially in these uncertain times. With Mars in your sign, you have energy! With Jupiter at the top of your chart, your reputation is stellar. You’re a winner.
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
You are high visibility. People are talking about you; and some might know personal details about your private life. Even though you’re in a playful moods, you are staying under the radar. Be aware of this scrutiny.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Today you want to do something different. You feel you need to break out and run for freedom! It makes sense because you have had a lot of focus on home, family and your private life. You might also be involved with home repairs more than usual. Do something different today!
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
You’re in busy mode. You’re making lists, talking to people and planning errands and appointments. You might be reading and studying more than usual, as well. Spend some time tying up loose details about shared property, inheritances and debt. You’ll be glad you did.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
Money and money-making ideas are on your mind. You’re also thinking about possible travel plans. However, be aware that today you have to go more than halfway when dealing with others because the moon is opposite your sign. Be cooperative.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
This is a powerful week for you because the sun and Mercury are in your sign. People will listen to you. This will help you in disputes about shared property and inheritances. Even though friends are supportive, today you might have to perform a service for someone or help someone out.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
You are happy to continue in a low-key fashion by working alone or behind the scenes this week. Fortunately, relations with bosses, parents and VIPs are excellent. Today is a playful day. You feel flirtatious. You will enjoy the company of your kids; however, be patient! (Mars opposite your sign.)
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
Take some time from your busy, popular schedule today to focus on home, family and perhaps a female relative. You have lots of energy to get stuff done and things are going well. Nevertheless, today you need to pull in your reins and focus on personal matters.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Bosses, parents and teachers admire you! (Obviously, you can use this to your advantage this week if you need to open some doors or get approval or permission or something.) Gifts, money and support from others will come your way. You feel playful, and keen to share your ideas with someone.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Despite your desire to “get away from all this” and, hopefully, travel or find a refreshing change of scenery, today you are thinking about money, cash flow and your possessions. Tidy up some loose ends. Indeed, tidy up your possessions!
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Because the moon is still in your sign today, you might have heightened emotions or magnified reactions to what other people say and do. By tomorrow, this energy will be gone and things will feel more “normalized” — relatively speaking. Don’t jump to conclusions today.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
Today you will prefer to hide somewhere and get some private time so you can catch your breath. Yes, it’s Monday, and everyone is raring to go, but you want to sleep in. Literally or metaphorically. Take it easy. Slowly, slowly.
If Your Birthday Is Today
Actor Richard Gere (1949) shares your birthday. You are honest, trustworthy and skillful in dealing with others. This year you will learn something that sets you in a new direction, which could be crucial for your success next year. It’s a time of learning and perhaps teaching as well. Explore meditation, yoga or any discipline that helps you get a better understanding of who you are. Invest in your future self.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-30--15-year-old boy critically wounded in Woodlawn shooting

A teenage boy was critically wounded in a shooting Sunday in Woodlawn on the South Side .
Someone in a @ @ @ @ @ about 8:30 p.m. as he walked in the 1200 block of East 63rd Street , @ @ @ @ @ teen was dropped off at Jackson Park Hospital in critical condition , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ the shooting .
Earlier this month , the 12-year-old son of a Chicago firefighter was @ @ @ @ @ Mamie-Till Mobley Park .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s @ @

A teenage boy was critically wounded in a shooting Sunday in Woodlawn on the South Side.
Someone in a silver sedan shot the 15-year-old about 8:30 p.m. as he walked in the 1200 block of East 63rd Street, Chicago police said.
The teen was dropped off at Jackson Park Hospital in critical condition, police said.
Area One detectives are investigating the shooting.
Earlier this month, the 12-year-old son of a Chicago firefighter was shot just blocks away at Mamie-Till Mobley Park.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Bears coach Matt Nagy to name starting QB no later than next Wednesday

Bears coach Matt Nagy to name starting QB no later than next Wednesday It ’ s either Nick Foles or @ @ @ @ @ isn ’ t ready to choose .
Fortunately for everyone , at least he won @ @ @ @ @ way until kickoff of the Lions game .

Don’t worry, everyone. Bears coach Matt Nagy won’t wait till kickoff of the season opener to name a starting quarterback.
After indicating he would keep that a secret as long as possible, Nagy backtracked Monday and said he will follow convention and declare a winner of the competition between Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles early next week.
Nagy apologized for the confusion he caused but will remain vague the rest of this week. He insisted he hasn’t made a decision yet.
“There will be no waiting until the middle of [next] week or the end of [next] week,” he said. “That wouldn’t be fair to our team, and it wouldn’t be fair to the quarterbacks.
“We’re not hiding anything. . . . We don’t even know that yet, to be quite honest.”
Foles and Trubisky have gone back and forth throughout preseason practices, but Foles appeared to play better in the scrimmage Saturday at Soldier Field and at the previous practice. Bears practices were open in full to the media through Saturday but shifted to a short viewing period Monday.
Trubisky has started for the Bears since taking over for Mike Glennon in 2017 but was one of the worst starting quarterbacks in the NFL last season. That prompted the Bears to trade a fourth-round pick and commit to a three-year, $24 million deal for Foles, who is a journeyman but was the Super Bowl MVP in the 2017 season.
Robinson returns
Nagy can’t keep everything quiet. The open period of practice revealed that after going more than a week without their top playmaker, the Bears got a boost with the return of wide receiver Allen Robinson.
He suffered an ankle injury Aug. 22 and had been out since. He seemed to be back to normal.
“I like where he’s at,” Nagy said. “I thought he looked good.”
Without Robinson, the Bears had Anthony Miller as their No. 1 receiver and used Javon Wims and Ted Ginn on the first team. Miller has fewer yards in his career (1,079) than Robinson had last season (1,147).
Robinson was one of the NFL’s best receivers in 2019, racking up that yardage total on 98 catches. He also tied running back David Montgomery for the team lead with seven touchdowns.
Other concerns
The Bears have more injury issues beyond Robinson. Star defensive lineman Akiem Hicks has missed two weeks with a quadriceps injury and was not on the field during the open part of practice.
Neither was swing offensive tackle Jason Spriggs, who hurt his knee more than a week ago.
Potential starting safety Tashaun Gipson, however, was on the field after missing two practices with a back injury.
Amukamara adrift
Former Bears cornerback Prince Amukamara might not have a place to play this season.
The team cut him in February, and he went unsigned for three months before the Raiders picked him up. They released him Monday.
Amukamara, 31, played nearly every defensive snap for the Bears last season until they were eliminated from playoff contention.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Bears will make do without David Montgomery

Bears kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson still looks like more of a gadget than a running back .
He ’ s trying hard and learning .
But it remains to be seen if he ’ ll become a productive full-time running back on offense .
“ I ’ m a full-time whatever coach wants me to be , ” Patterson said .
“ Anytime I ’ m on the field , I ’ m full-time whatever .
I ’ m always on goal .
I don ’ t limit myself to anything on the football field .
Whatever coach needs me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do — safety , running back , right guard , left guard — it doesn ’ t matter .
I just want to be out there on the football field helping my team win.
” Maybe Patterson just needs time .
But there ’ s precious little of that in light of David Montgomery ’ s groin injury last week .
It was considered good news that Montgomery would be out 2-4 weeks — the injury looked like it could be much worse than that .
But that still puts Matt Nagy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with the season opener less than two weeks away .
The backs directly behind Montgomery on the Bears ’ roster , Tarik Cohen and Patterson , are best as gadget-type players — more useful weapons when Nagy wants to zig when the defense zags .
But neither player is Montgomery .
The running backs who might be able to fill the Montgomery role are unproven and lightly regarded undrafted players — Ryan Nall and Artavis Pierce .
And with Montgomery expected to return in less than a month , the Bears ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leonard Fournette was waived by the Jaguars on Monday , the Bears were quickly listed as the betting favorites by multiple oddsmakers to sign the 2017 fourth overall pick .
It has to be tempting if Fournette clears waivers as expected .
But Montgomery ’ s projected September return and Fournette ’ s previous questionable attitude issues figure to be a factor in that decision .
“ We like where we ’ re at , ” Nagy said .
“ Obviously we like it more when David is in there , but these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and what we ’ re looking to do.
” The Bears also re-signed rookie running back Napoleon Maxwell , an undrafted free agent from Florida International who was cut on Aug. 2 ( and put cornerback Michael Joseph on injured reserves ) .
Maxwell is on the fringe of the roster but not much more than Raheem Mostert — a 49ers postseason hero — was at one time .
So nobody can be totally dismissed as a prospect .
But the Bears ’ focus seems less on replacing Montgomery and more on making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man , ” Patterson said when asked about Montgomery ’ s injury .
“ David — he ’ s one of the hardest-working young guys I ’ ve seen in this league .
Seeing him go down , it was scary .
We didn ’ t know what happened .
He tried to get up and he started laying down .
“ Any time you see a guy go down , it ’ s always scary , no matter who he is .
Hopefully he ’ ll be ready for Week 1.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to acquire Montgomery as a “ perfect fit ” for Nagy ’ s offense .
They traded Jordan Howard — a two-time 1,000-yard rusher , including one year under Nagy — and then traded up 14 spots in the 2019 draft to get Montgomery .
He didn ’ t look quite like the perfect fit as a rookie , but his 889 yards ( 3.7 average ) and six touchdowns in a bad offense looked promising .
Montgomery was one of several players the Bears hope to break out in 2020 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ him in this organization , ” Patterson said .
“ I ’ m just ready to see what he can for a year or two .
We ’ ve got high expectations for David .
Talking to him every day , he just loves the game .
You need guys like him in this locker room .
”

Bears kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson still looks like more of a gadget than a running back. He’s trying hard and learning, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll become a productive full-time running back.
‘‘I’m a full-time whatever Coach wants me to be,’’ Patterson said. ‘‘Anytime I’m on the field, I’m full-time whatever. I’m always on goal. I don’t limit myself to anything on the football field. Whatever Coach needs me to do, I’m going to do. Safety, running back, right guard, left guard — it doesn’t matter. I just want to be out there on the football field helping my team win.’’
Maybe Patterson just needs time. But there’s precious little of that in light of David Montgomery’s groin injury last week. It was considered good news that Montgomery would be out only two to four weeks. But that still puts coach Matt Nagy and the Bears in a tight spot, with the season opener less than two weeks away.
The backs directly behind Montgomery on the Bears’ roster, Tarik Cohen and Patterson, are best as gadget-type players — more useful when Nagy wants to zig when the defense zags. But neither player is Montgomery. The running backs who might be able to fill Montgomery’s role, Ryan Nall and Artavis Pierce, are unproven and lightly regarded undrafted players.
And with Montgomery expected to return in less than a month, the Bears’ urgency remains to be seen. When Leonard Fournette was waived Monday by the Jaguars, the Bears quickly were listed as the favorites by multiple oddsmakers to sign him. It has to be tempting if Fournette clears waivers, as expected.
But Montgomery’s projected September return and Fournette’s previous questionable attitude issues figure to be factors in that decision.
‘‘We like where we’re at,’’ Nagy said. ‘‘Obviously, we like it more when David is in there, but these guys have really taken on their role and what we’re looking to do.’’
The Bears also re-signed rookie Napoleon Maxwell, an undrafted free agent from Florida International who was cut Aug. 2. Maxwell is on the fringe of the roster but not much more than Raheem Mostert — a 49ers postseason hero — was at one time. So nobody can be totally dismissed as a prospect.
But the Bears’ focus seems to be less on replacing Montgomery and more on making do until he returns.
‘‘Oh, man,’’ Patterson said when asked about Montgomery’s injury. ‘‘David, he’s one of the hardest-working young guys I’ve seen in this league. Seeing him go down, it was scary. We didn’t know what happened. He tried to get up, and he started laying down.
‘‘Anytime you see a guy go down, it’s always scary, no matter who he is. Hopefully he’ll be ready for Week 1.’’
The Bears notably went out of their way to acquire Montgomery as a ‘‘perfect fit’’ for Nagy’s offense. They traded Jordan Howard — a two-time 1,000-yard rusher, including once under Nagy — then traded up 14 spots in the 2019 draft to get Montgomery.
He didn’t look quite like the perfect fit as a rookie, but his 889 yards (3.7-yard average) and six touchdowns in a bad offense looked promising. Montgomery is one of several players the Bears hope will break out in 2020.
‘‘We love him; everybody loves him in this organization,’’ Patterson said. ‘‘I’m just ready to see what he can do for a year or two. We’ve got high expectations for David. Talking to him every day, he just loves the game. You need guys like him in this locker room.’’


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Cook County urges residents to wear masks or face closures to limit COVID-19 (LIVE UPDATES)

Mask ask : Cook County urges residents to cover their faces — or face consequences of COVID-19 ’ s ‘ second surge ’ Facing the beginning stages of a second surge of COVID-19 in suburban Cook County , officials said Monday they ’ re launching a campaign to urge people to “ mask up , so we don ’ t have to close up.
” The campaign , called “ mask up Cook County , ” was unveiled Monday , just days after Gov .
J.B. Pritzker added the suburban portion of the county to his list of areas at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Board President Toni Preckwinkle said last week that designation put the county “ at a crossroads , ” Dr. Rachel Rubin , one of the co-leaders of the Cook County Department of Public Health , said Monday the county continues to “ see a rise in the rate of new cases diagnosed each day.
” The county has also started to see a rise in deaths .
Dr. Kiran Joshi , a co-leader of the Cook County Department of Public Health , said the surge in new cases are spread throughout suburban Cook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen a rise in hospitalizations , “ I hate to be the bearer of bad tidings , but we are now in the beginning stages of a second surge , and some schools are open , and colder weather and flu season are coming , ” Joshi said .
“ Now is not the time to take our foot off the gas .
… Mask up and back up to protect yourselves , your family and your communities.
” Read the full story from Rachel Hinton here .
7:29 p.m. Illinois sees 1,668 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average daily caseload more than twice that of June The month of August averaged 1,812 coronavirus cases per day , not quite back to where Illinois was at during the peak month of May , when the state averaged more than 2,100 cases per day — but definitely backing up officials ’ concerns that the state is trending in the wrong direction .
On Monday , the last day of August , state health officials reported 1,668 new COVID-19 cases and seven additional deaths .
That ends the month with a caseload shy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but more than twice the daily case average of 764 in June , and up sharply from the 1,150-daily average in July .
Thankfully , deaths are not again on the rise — as cases in recent weeks have been traced to younger and more resilient age groups .
But public health officials have been predicting a spike in fatalities is looming .
The daily death count during the peak month of May was 98 .
June saw 51 deaths a day .
There were 19 per day in July .
And in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
Managers of downtown office buildings report their properties have about 5 % to 10 % of their population on a typical workday .
They expect a little more activity after Labor Day , but how much could depend on school situations .
“ There are days I see more boat traffic on the river than cars on the streets , ” said Lance Knez , vice president of Hines Interests and president of the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago , which has worked closely with the city to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are ready for more people .
For Knez , the bottom line is this , “ For people to come back to work , employers and employees must first feel safe.
” That applies both to office cleaning regimens and to what ’ s going on outside .
Vicki Noonan , managing principal at Cushman & Wakefield , said she hopes more tenants will populate buildings after Labor Day , at least gradually .
Some employers have talked about putting people on an alternate-day schedule for working from home , she said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm CBRE of its national , big-company client base addressed the changing character of work .
In it , 61 % of 126 senior-level executives said all employees will be able to work outside the office at least part time .
It also found only 10 % of companies are considering leaving high-density urban cores , although satellite offices or flexible space deals may figure more prominently .
So don ’ t expect downtown or other business centers to roar back to life soon .
The implications for Chicago ’ s commercial health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are enormous .
The problems of the pandemic and violence are woven in the public mind .
Read the full column from David Roeder here .
2:42 p.m .
Bleak fall outlook should have families planning for Thanksgiving over Zoom , experts say As the Summer of COVID draws to a close , many experts fear an even bleaker fall and suggest that American families should start planning for Thanksgiving by Zoom .
Because of the many uncertainties , public health scientists say it ’ s easier to forecast the weather on Thanksgiving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus crisis will play out this autumn .
But school reopenings , holiday travel and more indoor activity because of colder weather could all separately increase transmission of the virus and combine in ways that could multiply the threat , they say .
Here ’ s one way it could go : As more schools open for in-person instruction and more college students return to campuses , small clusters of cases could widen into outbreaks in late September .
Public fatigue over mask rules and other restrictions could stymie efforts to slow these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ widening outbreaks could start to strain hospitals .
If a bad flu season peaks in October , as happened in 2009 , the pressure on the health care system could result in higher daily death tolls from the coronavirus .
Dr. Robert Redfield , director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , has said that scenario is his biggest fear .
11:15 a.m. Detroit turns public park into memorial garden to honor COVID-19 victims DETROIT — An island park in Detroit has become an extraordinary memorial garden , with cars packed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of city residents who have died from COVID-19 .
Mayor Mike Duggan declared Monday Detroit Memorial Day to honor the 1,500-plus city victims of the pandemic .
Hearses escorted by police led solemn all-day processions around Belle Isle Park in the Detroit River after bells rang across the region at 8:45 a.m. Radio station WRCJ , which plays classical music and jazz , added gospel to its playlist and read the names of the deceased .
“ It is our hope that seeing these beautiful faces on the island today ... will wake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic , ” said Rochelle Riley , Detroit ’ s director of arts and culture .
The “ memorial was designed to bring some peace to families whose loved ones didn ’ t have the funerals they deserved , ” Riley said .
“ But it may also force us to work harder to limit the number of COVID-19 deaths we ’ ll endure in the coming months.
” 7:51 a.m. State and local officials make accommodations to ensure voters are safe The coronavirus has upended everyday life in ways big and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overlap with voting ?
Thousands of state and local election officials across the U.S are sharing ideas and making accommodations to try to ensure that voters and polling places are safe amid an unprecedented pandemic .
Some are finding ways to expand access to voter registration and ballot request forms .
Others are testing new products , installing special equipment or scouting outdoor voting locations .
Here are virus-related obstacles voters could face during this unprecedented presidential election year along with some of the solutions being tried : Check out voting obstacles and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chicago ’ s beloved ‘ Tamale Guy , ’ is in intensive care with COVID-19 • Another 481 COVID-19 cases were identified at University of Alabama .
• Illinois public health officials announced 1,707 COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday and 24 deaths attributed to the virus statewide .
8:11 a.m. Pritzker did not handle Metro East pandemic mitigation well When Gov .
J.B. Pritzker announced the state COVID-19 “ mitigation ” plan for the Metro East on Aug. 16 , he said it was done in conjunction “ with local officials in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border in St. Louis.
” Last week , though , the governor admitted the cross-border arrangement to try to contain the virus ’ spread was a “ mistake.
” Man , was it ever .
Instead of sticking to the state ’ s original mitigation plan , which would ’ ve included things like reducing indoor restaurant capacity and shutting down all indoor bar service , Pritzker only ordered bars and restaurants to close at 11 p.m. , which was in line with what St. Louis was planning at the time .
Read @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

The month of August averaged 1,812 coronavirus cases per day, not quite back to where Illinois was at during the peak month of May, when the state averaged more than 2,100 cases per day — but definitely backing up officials’ concerns that the state is trending in the wrong direction.
Here’s what else happened in Chicago and around Illinois as the fight against the coronavirus pandemic continued.
News
8:59 p.m. Mask ask: Cook County urges residents to cover their faces — or face consequences of COVID-19’s ‘second surge’
Customers eat and drink at the Brat Stop, a popular bar, restaurant and tourist attraction about 5 minutes from the Illinois border on May 15, 2020 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Scott Olson/Getty Images (file photo)
Facing the beginning stages of a second surge of COVID-19 in suburban Cook County, officials said Monday they’re launching a campaign to urge people to “mask up, so we don’t have to close up.”
The campaign, called “mask up Cook County,” was unveiled Monday, just days after Gov. J.B. Pritzker added the suburban portion of the county to his list of areas at a “warning level.” Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said last week that designation put the county “at a crossroads,”
Dr. Rachel Rubin, one of the co-leaders of the Cook County Department of Public Health, said Monday the county continues to “see a rise in the rate of new cases diagnosed each day.” The county has also started to see a rise in deaths.
Dr. Kiran Joshi, a co-leader of the Cook County Department of Public Health, said the surge in new cases are spread throughout suburban Cook County, although they have not yet seen a rise in hospitalizations,
“I hate to be the bearer of bad tidings, but we are now in the beginning stages of a second surge, and some schools are open, and colder weather and flu season are coming,” Joshi said. “Now is not the time to take our foot off the gas. … Mask up and back up to protect yourselves, your family and your communities.”
Read the full story from Rachel Hinton here.
7:29 p.m. Illinois sees 1,668 new COVID-19 cases, ending August with average daily caseload more than twice that of June
The month of August averaged 1,812 coronavirus cases per day, not quite back to where Illinois was at during the peak month of May, when the state averaged more than 2,100 cases per day — but definitely backing up officials’ concerns that the state is trending in the wrong direction.
On Monday, the last day of August, state health officials reported 1,668 new COVID-19 cases and seven additional deaths.
That ends the month with a caseload shy of May’s alarming average, but more than twice the daily case average of 764 in June, and up sharply from the 1,150-daily average in July.
Thankfully, deaths are not again on the rise — as cases in recent weeks have been traced to younger and more resilient age groups. But public health officials have been predicting a spike in fatalities is looming.
The daily death count during the peak month of May was 98. June saw 51 deaths a day. There were 19 per day in July. And in August, there were 17 deaths per day.
Reporter Mitch Dudek has the full story.
3:17 p.m. COVID-19 and crime drastically transforming downtown Chicago
Managers of downtown office buildings report their properties have about 5% to 10% of their population on a typical workday. They expect a little more activity after Labor Day, but how much could depend on school situations.
“There are days I see more boat traffic on the river than cars on the streets,” said Lance Knez, vice president of Hines Interests and president of the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago, which has worked closely with the city to make sure health guidelines are followed and properties are ready for more people.
For Knez, the bottom line is this, “For people to come back to work, employers and employees must first feel safe.” That applies both to office cleaning regimens and to what’s going on outside.
Vicki Noonan, managing principal at Cushman & Wakefield, said she hopes more tenants will populate buildings after Labor Day, at least gradually. Some employers have talked about putting people on an alternate-day schedule for working from home, she said.
A June survey by the real estate firm CBRE of its national, big-company client base addressed the changing character of work. In it, 61% of 126 senior-level executives said all employees will be able to work outside the office at least part time. It also found only 10% of companies are considering leaving high-density urban cores, although satellite offices or flexible space deals may figure more prominently.
So don’t expect downtown or other business centers to roar back to life soon. The implications for Chicago’s commercial health and for our feelings about living here are enormous. The problems of the pandemic and violence are woven in the public mind.
Read the full column from David Roeder here.
2:42 p.m. Bleak fall outlook should have families planning for Thanksgiving over Zoom, experts say
As the Summer of COVID draws to a close, many experts fear an even bleaker fall and suggest that American families should start planning for Thanksgiving by Zoom.
Because of the many uncertainties, public health scientists say it’s easier to forecast the weather on Thanksgiving Day than to predict how the U.S. coronavirus crisis will play out this autumn. But school reopenings, holiday travel and more indoor activity because of colder weather could all separately increase transmission of the virus and combine in ways that could multiply the threat, they say.
Here’s one way it could go: As more schools open for in-person instruction and more college students return to campuses, small clusters of cases could widen into outbreaks in late September. Public fatigue over mask rules and other restrictions could stymie efforts to slow these infections.
A few weeks later, widening outbreaks could start to strain hospitals. If a bad flu season peaks in October, as happened in 2009, the pressure on the health care system could result in higher daily death tolls from the coronavirus. Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has said that scenario is his biggest fear.
Read the full story here.
11:15 a.m. Detroit turns public park into memorial garden to honor COVID-19 victims
DETROIT — An island park in Detroit has become an extraordinary memorial garden, with cars packed with families slowly passing hundreds of photos of city residents who have died from COVID-19.
Mayor Mike Duggan declared Monday Detroit Memorial Day to honor the 1,500-plus city victims of the pandemic. Hearses escorted by police led solemn all-day processions around Belle Isle Park in the Detroit River after bells rang across the region at 8:45 a.m.
Radio station WRCJ, which plays classical music and jazz, added gospel to its playlist and read the names of the deceased.
“It is our hope that seeing these beautiful faces on the island today ... will wake people up to the devastating effect of the pandemic,” said Rochelle Riley, Detroit’s director of arts and culture.
The “memorial was designed to bring some peace to families whose loved ones didn’t have the funerals they deserved,” Riley said. “But it may also force us to work harder to limit the number of COVID-19 deaths we’ll endure in the coming months.”
Read the full story here.
7:51 a.m. State and local officials make accommodations to ensure voters are safe
The coronavirus has upended everyday life in ways big and small. What happens when those disruptions overlap with voting? Thousands of state and local election officials across the U.S are sharing ideas and making accommodations to try to ensure that voters and polling places are safe amid an unprecedented pandemic.
Some are finding ways to expand access to voter registration and ballot request forms. Others are testing new products, installing special equipment or scouting outdoor voting locations.
Here are virus-related obstacles voters could face during this unprecedented presidential election year along with some of the solutions being tried:
Check out voting obstacles and solutions here.
New Cases
Analysis & Commentary
8:11 a.m. Pritzker did not handle Metro East pandemic mitigation well
When Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced the state COVID-19 “mitigation” plan for the Metro East on Aug. 16, he said it was done in conjunction “with local officials in the Metro East region and across the border in St. Louis.”
Last week, though, the governor admitted the cross-border arrangement to try to contain the virus’ spread was a “mistake.”
Man, was it ever.
Instead of sticking to the state’s original mitigation plan, which would’ve included things like reducing indoor restaurant capacity and shutting down all indoor bar service, Pritzker only ordered bars and restaurants to close at 11 p.m., which was in line with what St. Louis was planning at the time.
Read the full column by Rich Miller here.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Commission on Chicago Landmarks to weigh designation for Emmett Till childhood home

Preservationists and the family of Emmett Till moved a step closer in efforts to landmark the childhood home of the Chicago teen whose murder propelled the Civil Rights Movement , as the Commission on Chicago Landmarks takes up the request Thursday .
Ald .
Jeanette Taylor ( 20 ) , whose ward includes the home at 6427 S. St. Lawrence where Till spent the last years of his life , submitted a long awaited letter in support of the effort on Friday , which was the 65th anniversary of the seminal event in America ’ s race history .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mississippi , the teen was kidnapped from his uncle ’ s home on Aug. 28 , 1955 , for allegedly whistling at a white woman at a grocery store .
His body was recovered on Aug. 31 , 1955 , from the Tallahatchie River , barbed wire wrapped around his neck , face beaten beyond recognition , his body weighted down with a cotton gin fan .
“ I write in full support of a Chicago landmark designation for the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley House .
I support an accelerated schedule to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her letter to city Planning Commissioner Maurice Cox .
“ Such a schedule might also see us getting to final approval of the designation during Black History Month in February 2021.
” Taylor said she finally heard from the Till family , which she ’ d said was the only holdup .
Plans for the 2,308-square-foot , brick two-flat also now are clearer .
A nonprofit in Taylor ’ s ward , Blacks In Green , founded by Naomi Davis , the woman who last November established the Mamie Till-Mobley Forgiveness Garden down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the northwest corner of 64th Street and St. Lawrence , seeks to purchase the property and turn it into a museum and gallery space .
The Commission will vote on a recommendation by its staff that the home be landmarked .
It ’ s one of two Chicago sites in the Emmett Till Memory Project , a virtual tour of national locations significant to this American tragedy , funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Institute of Museum & Library Services .
The other is Roberts Temple Church of God @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historic open casket funeral was held on Sept. 3 , 1955 .
The church was landmarked in 2006 .
But the home where Till lived before that fateful train trip Down South remained at risk of deterioration or demolition after the failure of previous landmark efforts .
The city hadn ’ t ascribed any urgency to preserving the home , now vacant .
Commission approval would provide a preliminary landmark recommendation — with all the protections of landmark status , including preventing demolition or changes to its exterior .
It ’ s only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be needed if current owners Blake and Wendy McCreight of BMW Properties/Express Property Solutions disagreed .
“ But on Friday , we got confirmation verbally that the current owner appeared to consent to landmark designation , ” said Ward Miller , executive director of Preservation Chicago .
It then moves to the City Council Committee on Zoning , Landmarks and Building Standards , then to full council vote .
Those wishing to speak on the proposal must register by submitting an appearance form by 12:45 p.m. Tuesday .

Preservationists and the family of Emmett Till moved a step closer in efforts to landmark the childhood home of the Chicago teen whose murder propelled the Civil Rights Movement, as the Commission on Chicago Landmarks takes up the request Thursday.
Ald. Jeanette Taylor (20), whose ward includes the home at 6427 S. St. Lawrence where Till spent the last years of his life, submitted a long awaited letter in support of the effort on Friday, which was the 65th anniversary of the seminal event in America’s race history.
In a visit to family in Money, Mississippi, the teen was kidnapped from his uncle’s home on Aug. 28, 1955, for allegedly whistling at a white woman at a grocery store. His body was recovered on Aug. 31, 1955, from the Tallahatchie River, barbed wire wrapped around his neck, face beaten beyond recognition, his body weighted down with a cotton gin fan.
“I write in full support of a Chicago landmark designation for the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley House. I support an accelerated schedule to consider this,” Taylor wrote in her letter to city Planning Commissioner Maurice Cox. “Such a schedule might also see us getting to final approval of the designation during Black History Month in February 2021.”
Taylor said she finally heard from the Till family, which she’d said was the only holdup.
Plans for the 2,308-square-foot, brick two-flat also now are clearer.
A nonprofit in Taylor’s ward, Blacks In Green, founded by Naomi Davis, the woman who last November established the Mamie Till-Mobley Forgiveness Garden down the street from the home, at the northwest corner of 64th Street and St. Lawrence, seeks to purchase the property and turn it into a museum and gallery space.
The Commission will vote on a recommendation by its staff that the home be landmarked.
It’s one of two Chicago sites in the Emmett Till Memory Project, a virtual tour of national locations significant to this American tragedy, funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Institute of Museum & Library Services. The other is Roberts Temple Church of God In Christ, where Till’s historic open casket funeral was held on Sept. 3, 1955.
Mamie Till-Mobley and her son, Emmett Till, whose lynching in 1955 became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement. AP Photo
The church was landmarked in 2006. But the home where Till lived before that fateful train trip Down South remained at risk of deterioration or demolition after the failure of previous landmark efforts. The city hadn’t ascribed any urgency to preserving the home, now vacant.
Commission approval would provide a preliminary landmark recommendation — with all the protections of landmark status, including preventing demolition or changes to its exterior.
It’s only the first step. A public hearing would be needed if current owners Blake and Wendy McCreight of BMW Properties/Express Property Solutions disagreed. “But on Friday, we got confirmation verbally that the current owner appeared to consent to landmark designation,” said Ward Miller, executive director of Preservation Chicago.
It then moves to the City Council Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards, then to full council vote. Those wishing to speak on the proposal must register by submitting an appearance form by 12:45 p.m. Tuesday.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Illinois sees 1,668 new COVID-19 cases, ending August with average daily caseload more than twice th

Illinois sees 1,668 new COVID-19 cases, ending August with average daily caseload more than twice that of June

The month of August averaged 1,812 coronavirus cases per day , not quite back to where Illinois was at during the peak month of May , when the state averaged more than 2,100 cases per day — but definitely backing up officials ’ concerns that the state is trending in the wrong direction .
On Monday , the last day of August , state health officials reported 1,668 new COVID-19 cases and seven additional deaths .
That ends the month with a caseload shy of May ’ s alarming average , but more than twice the daily case average of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the 1,150-daily average in July .
Thankfully , deaths are not again on the rise — as cases in recent weeks have been traced to younger and more resilient age groups .
But public health officials have been predicting a spike in fatalities is looming .
The daily death count during the peak month of May was 98 .
June saw 51 deaths a day .
There were 19 per day in July .
And in August , there were 17 deaths per day .
For months , Gov .
J.B. Pritzer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ezike have been warning “ we are going in the wrong direction.
” Just last week , they put 30 of the state ’ s 102 counties at the COVID-19 “ warning level , ” a designation triggered when an area hits two or more “ risk indicators.
” The warnings could lead to tightening of restrictions on restaurants , bars and other businesses and activities .
New to the warning list last week was suburban Cook County , prompting Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle to warn “ we are at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wear a mask , watch their distance , and wash their hands consistently to slow the spread of COVID-19 so we don ’ t lose the gains we have made , ” Preckwinkle said in a statement .
The new cases reported on Monday were detected among the latest batch of 47,379 tests , dropping the state ’ s seven-day positivity rate a hair from 4.2 % to 4.1 % Illinois has totaled 235,023 cases and 8,026 deaths over the last seven months .

The month of August averaged 1,812 coronavirus cases per day, not quite back to where Illinois was at during the peak month of May, when the state averaged more than 2,100 cases per day — but definitely backing up officials’ concerns that the state is trending in the wrong direction.
On Monday, the last day of August, state health officials reported 1,668 new COVID-19 cases and seven additional deaths.
That ends the month with a caseload shy of May’s alarming average, but more than twice the daily case average of 764 in June, and up sharply from the 1,150-daily average in July.
Thankfully, deaths are not again on the rise — as cases in recent weeks have been traced to younger and more resilient age groups. But public health officials have been predicting a spike in fatalities is looming.
The daily death count during the peak month of May was 98. June saw 51 deaths a day. There were 19 per day in July. And in August, there were 17 deaths per day.
For months, Gov. J.B. Pritzer and Illinois Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike have been warning “we are going in the wrong direction.” Just last week, they put 30 of the state’s 102 counties at the COVID-19 “warning level,” a designation triggered when an area hits two or more “risk indicators.” The warnings could lead to tightening of restrictions on restaurants, bars and other businesses and activities.
Illinois Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike speaks at a briefing in March. Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times file
New to the warning list last week was suburban Cook County, prompting Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle to warn “we are at a crossroads.
“We need everyone to wear a mask, watch their distance, and wash their hands consistently to slow the spread of COVID-19 so we don’t lose the gains we have made,” Preckwinkle said in a statement.
The new cases reported on Monday were detected among the latest batch of 47,379 tests, dropping the state’s seven-day positivity rate a hair from 4.2% to 4.1%
Illinois has totaled 235,023 cases and 8,026 deaths over the last seven months.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Cubs make flurry of moves at trade deadline, add LHPs Andrew Chafin, Josh Osich and OF Cameron Maybi

Cubs make flurry of moves at trade deadline, add LHPs Andrew Chafin, Josh Osich and OF Cameron Maybin

The Cubs ’ front office knew the team ’ s moves at the trade deadline were likely going to be subtle instead of splashy .
The shortened 2020 season has given many teams hope that they can still compete for a spot in the postseason with a month to go , and with that being the case , the Cubs hope subtle moves pay big dividends .
The Cubs supplemented their roster on Tuesday by acquiring left-handers Andrew Chafin and cash considerations from the D-Backs and Josh Osich from the Red Sox for players to be named later .
Chafin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 games this season , but owns a career 3.68 ERA in seven seasons in Arizona .
Osich is 1-1 with a 5.74 ERA in 13 games this season and has held lefties to a .665 OPS in his career .
They rounded out their deadline moves by picking up veteran outfielder Cameron Maybin from the Tigers in exchange for minor leaguer Zack Short .
“ Left-handed relief and right-handed hitters that could hit left-handed pitching – those are two of the main goals we had for the deadline , ” general manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trade for designated hitter/first baseman Jose Martinez from the Rays and Monday ’ s move is a nice haul considering some of the team ’ s financial constrainsts .
This year ’ s moves make an impact for the Cubs this season and in the future .
While Chafin and Maybin will be free agents at the end of the season , Martinez and Osich won ’ t hit the free-agent market until after the 2022 season .
“ I think you ’ re always looking at yours to control , ” Hoyer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the years I control are valuable , but I think we tried to be as targeted as we could in trying to address things that we haven ’ t done particularly well and I think we did that.
” Osich and Chaffin help bolster the Cubs ’ bullpen as Kyle Ryan is the only left-hander in the bullpen .
Chafin won ’ t pitch for the team immediately as he ’ s on the 10-day injured list with a left-finger sprain .
Hoyer says Chafin is currently on a throwing program and thinks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he pitches .
One of the reasons they received cash in the deal from Arizona .
Maybin and Martinez ’ s roles will be largely based on their ability to hit against lefties .
The Cubs have had a deficiency against southpaws , slashing .208/.325/.333 against left-handed pitching this season .
The Cubs hope a healthy Kris Bryant and Steven Souza Jr. also adds to an increase in production in that area .
Martinez has a career .319/.392/.554 slash line against southpaws .
Maybin has been slightly better against right-handers in his career @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quality at-bat of the bench .
“ We ’ ve seen it time and time again with a lineup that I think in some ways we felt like should have been better equipped to handle lefties .
We just haven ’ t , ” Hoyer said .
“ I think maybe that is a good example of where the nature of the short season changes your thinking a little bit , because we don ’ t necessarily have time for those things to even out .
“ We just haven ’ t hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to run left-handed pitching out against us without much fear .
That ’ s something we certainly addressed .
I think with Jose and Cam and then Souza and Kris coming off the IL , I think that ’ s something that maybe we can even turn from a weakness into a strength.
” The team ’ s deadline moves created a roster crunch , particularly in the outfield .
With Bryant and Souza Jr. set to come off the IL as soon as Tuesday , it forced Albert Almora Jr. out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team will option Almora Jr. to alternate site South Bend .
The Cubs also designated Hernan Perez and Ian Miller for assignment in corresponding moves .
“ Albert hasn ’ t gotten consistent at-bats and I think as a result , it ’ s been a challenge for him to play sporadically and be able to produce , ” Hoyer said .
“ We get a chance to send Albert to the alternate site and he can get a bunch of at-bats and hopefully get clicking because we haven ’ t seen what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the playing time he ’ s been given .
”

The Cubs’ front office knew its moves at the trade deadline were likely to be subtle, not splashy.
The shortened 2020 season has given many teams hope that they still can compete for a spot in the postseason with a month to go, so the Cubs are hoping subtle moves pay off big.
They supplemented their roster Monday by acquiring left-hander Andrew Chafin along with cash considerations from the Diamondbacks and lefty Josh Osich from the Red Sox for players to be named.
Chafin is 1-1 with an 8.10 ERA in 11 games, but he has a 3.68 ERA in seven seasons in Arizona. Osich is 1-1 with a 5.74 ERA in 13 games and has held lefties to a .665 OPS in his career.
The Cubs rounded out their deadline moves by picking up outfielder Cameron Maybin from the Tigers for minor-leaguer Zack Short.
“Left-handed relief and right-handed hitters that can hit left-handed pitching — those are two of the main goals we had for the deadline,” general manager Jed Hoyer said.
Sunday’s trade for designated hitter/first baseman Jose Martinez and Monday’s deals make up a nice haul. The moves will have an impact this season and in the future.
Chafin and Maybin will be free agents at the end of the season, but Martinez and Osich won’t hit the free-agent market until after the 2022 season.
“I think you’re always looking at years to control,” Hoyer said. “I know, certainly, the years I control are valuable, but I think we tried to be as targeted as we could in trying to address things that we haven’t done particularly well, and I think we did that.”
Osich and Chafin help bolster the Cubs’ bullpen. They join Kyle Ryan, the only other left-handed reliever. Chafin won’t pitch immediately because he’s on the 10-day injured list with a sprained finger. Hoyer said Chafin is on a throwing program and thinks it will be a few weeks before he pitches. It’s one of the reasons they received cash in the deal from Arizona.
The roles for Maybin and Martinez largely will be based on their ability to hit against lefties. The Cubs have had a deficiency in that area, slashing .208/.325/.333 against left-handed pitching. The Cubs hope a healthy Kris Bryant and Steven Souza Jr. will increase the production against southpaws.
Martinez has a career .319/.392/.554 slash line against lefties. Maybin has been slightly better against right-handers in his career and can provide the Cubs with a quality at-bat off the bench.
“We’ve seen it time and time again with a lineup that I think in some ways we felt should have been better equipped to handle lefties,’’ Hoyer said. ‘‘We just haven’t. I think maybe that is a good example of where the nature of the short season changes your thinking a little bit because we don’t necessarily have time for those things to even out.
“We just haven’t hit lefties, and it felt like teams were able to run left-handed pitching out against us without much fear. That’s something we certainly addressed. I think with Jose and Cam and then Souza and Kris coming off the IL, I think that’s something that maybe we can even turn from a weakness into a strength.”
The team’s deadline moves created a roster crunch, particularly in the outfield. With Bryant and Souza set to come off the IL as soon as Tuesday, it forced Albert Almora out of the picture.
Hoyer said the team will option Almora to South Bend. The Cubs also designated Hernan Perez and Ian Miller for assignment in corresponding moves.
“Albert hasn’t gotten consistent at-bats, and I think, as a result, it’s been a challenge for him to play sporadically and be able to produce,” Hoyer said. “We get a chance to send Albert to the alternate site, and he can get a bunch of at-bats and hopefully get clicking because we haven’t seen what he can do this year in part because of the playing time he’s been given.”


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Much to Bears’ relief, WR Allen Robinson back at practice after week-plus out

After going more than a week without their top playmaker , the Bears got a boost Monday with the return of wide receiver Allen Robinson .
That offense looks considerably better with him on the field .
Robinson sustained an ankle injury Aug. 22 , and the Bears kept him away from the practice field entirely until he rejoined his teammates Monday .
He was active during the period open to the media , and coach Matt Nagy said , “ I like where he ’ s at .
I thought he looked good.
” Without Robinson , the Bears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 receiver and used Javon Wims and Ted Ginn on the first team .
Miller has fewer yards in his career ( 1,079 ) than Robinson had last season ( 1,147 ) .
Robinson was one of the NFL ’ s best receivers in 2019 , racking up that yardage total on 98 catches .
He also tied running back David Montgomery for the team lead with seven touchdowns .
The Bears almost certainly could agree on a contract extension with Robinson before the season starts , but if they don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agent in spring .
Robinson , 27 , has said repeatedly he wants to stay with the Bears and aspires to be their all-time leading receiver .

After going more than a week without their top playmaker, the Bears got a boost Monday with the return of wide receiver Allen Robinson.
That offense looks considerably better with him on the field.
Robinson sustained an ankle injury Aug. 22, and the Bears kept him away from the practice field entirely until he rejoined his teammates Monday. He was active during the period open to the media, and coach Matt Nagy said, “I like where he’s at. I thought he looked good.”
Without Robinson, the Bears had Anthony Miller as their No. 1 receiver and used Javon Wims and Ted Ginn on the first team. Miller has fewer yards in his career (1,079) than Robinson had last season (1,147).
Robinson was one of the NFL’s best receivers in 2019, racking up that yardage total on 98 catches. He also tied running back David Montgomery for the team lead with seven touchdowns.
The Bears almost certainly could agree on a contract extension with Robinson before the season starts, but if they don’t, he’ll become a free agent in spring. Robinson, 27, has said repeatedly he wants to stay with the Bears and aspires to be their all-time leading receiver.


chicagosun-times--2020-08-31--Man fatally shot in Lawndale

Man fatally shot in Lawndale

A man was killed in a shooting Monday in Lawndale on the West Side , police said .
Officers heard @ @ @ @ @ the 1800 block of South Kedzie Avenue and found the 26-year-old unresponsive with multiple gunshot @ @ @ @ @ .
The man was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital , where he was pronounced dead @ @ @ @ @ Cook County medical examiner ’ s office hasn ’ t released details on the death @ @ @ @ @ , and track the city ’ s homicides .

A man was killed in a shooting Monday in Lawndale on the West Side, police said.
Officers heard gunfire about 1 p.m. in the 1800 block of South Kedzie Avenue and found the 23-year-old unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds, Chicago police said.
The man was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.
The Cook County medical examiner’s office identified him as Xavier Anderson of West Garfield Park. An autopsy confirmed he died of multiple gunshot wounds and ruled his death a homicide.
Area Four detectives are investigating.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.