chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--And then there was one? Another Columbus statue is still standing in Chicago

This is the case of the very unnoticed Christopher Columbus statue .
After protests that resulted in the removal of two Christopher Columbus statues in the wee hours of Friday morning — one in Little Italy , the other in Grant Park — the city ’ s ( apparently ) lone remaining statue honoring the controversial Italian explorer stands a bit over seven feet tall in the middle of a far South Side intersection .
It ’ s unclear if the statue has drawn the attention of protesters .
The bronze figure — one arm akimbo — is on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s surrounded by South Chicago Avenue , Exchange Avenue and 92nd Street in the South Chicago neighborhood .
“ It hasn ’ t been overlooked .
I ’ m in conversations with the city , ” Ald .
Susan Sadlowski Garza ( 10th ) said Monday evening before abruptly ending a phone call because a relative was calling .
She promised to call back , but didn ’ t .
According to the city ’ s website , the statue was originally part of a public drinking fountain that was a gift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dedicated in 1892 , it ’ s believed to be Chicago ’ s first statue commemorating Columbus .
It was originally located on Washington Street near what was then City Hall but was moved to its present location in 1909 .
A spokeswoman for Mayor Lori Lightfoot didn ’ t address the fate of the statue directly , but wrote in an email : “ To ensure a safe process for residents to express their support or concerns over any of Chicago ’ s monuments , memorials , and murals , the City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assess statues in partnership with our local communities.
” Earlier Monday , Lightfoot talked about her decision to remove two Columbus statues in the middle of the night late last week .
She said she ordered them “ temporarily ” removed after receiving “ intelligence that gave us great concern ” that something bad was about to happen .
She didn ’ t elaborate , but the statue in Grant Park was the scene of a huge clash between police and protesters earlier this month that resulted in dozens of officers and demonstrators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 Italian Americans and others gathered at the now empty pedestal where a Columbus memorial once stood in Arrigo Park in Little Italy .
They decried its removal and some said they would push to have it returned .

This is the case of the very unnoticed Christopher Columbus statue.
After protests that resulted in the removal of two Christopher Columbus statues in the wee hours of Friday morning — one in Little Italy, the other in Grant Park — the city’s (apparently) lone remaining statue honoring the controversial Italian explorer stands a bit over seven feet tall in the middle of a far South Side intersection.
It’s unclear if the statue has drawn the attention of protesters.
The bronze figure — one arm akimbo — is on a small, triangular concrete pedestrian island that’s surrounded by South Chicago Avenue, Exchange Avenue and 92nd Street in the South Chicago neighborhood.
“It hasn’t been overlooked. I’m in conversations with the city,” Ald. Susan Sadlowski Garza (10th) said Monday evening.
“I’m looking to take it down as soon as possible,” she said, noting that she personally believes it should be replaced with a statue of a different Italian person who’s contributed to society.
Sadlowski Garza was not surprised the statue was not caught up in recent protests.
“There’s a lot of people that never venture this far south in the city, they just get on the Skyway and never come here,” she said.
She’s heard from a number of constituents who want the statue removed, including members of her own family.
According to the city’s website, the statue was originally part of a public drinking fountain that was a gift from Chicago hotelier John B. Drake. Dedicated in 1892, it’s believed to be Chicago’s first statue commemorating Columbus. It was originally located on Washington Street near what was then City Hall but was moved to its present location in 1909.
A spokeswoman for Mayor Lori Lightfoot didn’t address the fate of the statue directly, but wrote in an email: “To ensure a safe process for residents to express their support or concerns over any of Chicago’s monuments, memorials, and murals, the City will be announcing a formal framework to assess statues in partnership with our local communities.”
The bronze figure is on a small, triangular concrete pedestrian island that’s surrounded by South Chicago Avenue, Exchange Avenue and 92nd Street in the South Chicago neighborhood. Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Earlier Monday, Lightfoot talked about her decision to remove two Columbus statues in the middle of the night late last week.
She said she ordered them “temporarily” removed after receiving “intelligence that gave us great concern” that something bad was about to happen. She didn’t elaborate, but the statue in Grant Park was the scene of a huge clash between police and protesters earlier this month that resulted in dozens of officers and demonstrators being injured.
On Sunday, about 100 Italian Americans and others gathered at the now empty pedestal where a Columbus memorial once stood in Arrigo Park in Little Italy. They decried its removal and some said they would push to have it returned.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--Lightfoot showcases $33 million in relief for renters and property owners (LIVE UPDATES)

Lightfoot showcases $ 33 million in relief for renters and property owners Three months after unveiling a non-binding “ Housing Solidarity Pledge ” that appeased no one , Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Monday showcased $ 33 million in relief for renters and property owners bankrolled by federal stimulus funds and local philanthropies .
Shortly after the stay-at-home shutdown triggered by the coronavirus , Lightfoot offered 2,000 Chicagoans struggling to stay in their homes grants of $ 1,000 apiece .
The $ 2 million was nowhere near enough to meet the demand from 83,000 applicants .
Now , those who struck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ automatically transferred ” to a $ 25 million Round 2 , “ more than ten times ” the initial investment made by the Chicago Department of Housing There is no need to re-apply .
Together with $ 8 million from the Department of Family and Support Services , Chicago is dedicating $ 33 million to “ eviction and foreclosure prevention , ” officials said .
“ Thanks to this investment , more Chicagoans will be able to stave off foreclosure , eviction and homelessness and the pain and insecurity that comes with it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news conference .
7:23 p.m .
Drama over safety of reopening leads theater to close again after 3 weekend shows The tribute show to Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli that drew criticism for reopening during the pandemic is shutting down after three performances .
A statement on the Facebook page of star and co-producer Nancy Hays said the “ well-meaning experiment ” is closing in response to “ vocal condemnation ” from the public .
“ We love the theatre and had no intention of causing distress or danger to anyone , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the statement said .
“ Judy & Liza , Once in a Lifetime : The London Palladium Concert — A Tribute ” had opened in March but ran less than a week before theaters were ordered closed .
This remount had been slated to play through Aug. 9 at the Greenhouse Theater Center at 2257 N. Lincoln Avenue .
As Friday ’ s reopening neared , many in the Chicago theater community chided Greenhouse owners William and Wendy Spatz for moving forward with the show , and the venue ’ s general manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his resignation on Thursday , calling the remount “ foolish and dangerous.
” 4:30 p.m. CPS parents skeptical of return to schools in first meeting on reopening plan The first of five community meetings hosted by Chicago Public Schools officials about a potential fall reopening featured hundreds of questions from parents and teachers , many of which were steeped in skepticism over whether in-classroom learning could be done safely in the middle of a pandemic .
Will there be more hand-washing stations at schools ?
What will happen when a student tests positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move between “ pods ” of students ?
What type of instruction will students receive when they opt out of in-person learning ?
Top CPS leadership , including CEO Janice Jackson , gave live answers to many questions — though they only got to a fraction in the 45 minutes set aside for a Q & A session , and there were many they couldn ’ t answer .
Responding to a question about potential cases at schools , CPS ’ chief health officer Kenneth Fox said families will be expected to self-report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Student Health and Wellness , providing their symptoms , noting when they first felt sick and other personal information .
The district would then gather information from that student ’ s school , such as which 15-student pod they were in , who else they had contact with and what part of the school they had been in .
An entire pod would be sent home if one of its students tests positive , and anyone directly in contact with the positive case would be told to quarantine for 14 days .
Read @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
QUINCY , Ill. — Considering ditching the mask ?
Think again .
The year that everyone can ’ t wait to be over won ’ t be ending any time soon .
Gov .
J.B. Pritzker said Monday that Illinois is unlikely to return to normalcy until sometime next year .
“ We don ’ t have to do this forever , ” the Democratic Governor said at a news conference in downstate Quincy .
“ We ’ re not there yet .
And frankly , we ’ re not going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ humble opinion .
“ I ’ m not a doctor , but that ’ s what my observation is , that we ’ re not going to be able to take off the mask and go about everything we were doing seven , eight months ago for a few more months , maybe six-plus months.
” Pritzker ’ s sobering prediction came as the state announced its sixth straight day of more than 1,200 new COVID-19 cases and a positivity rate that keeps creeping up .
Read the full story from Madeline Kenney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LIghtfoot on Monday said the city will add Wisconsin to the list of states falling under a 14-day quarantine order .
That order that now applies to anyone arriving in Chicago from 19 states is not being strictly enforced .
Compliance is voluntary .
Even so , Wisconsin ’ s presence on the list may make Chicagoans think twice before taking day trips to Lake Geneva or vacationing in Door County or the Wisconsin Dells .
The order has been “ very successful from an education standpoint , ” city health commissioner Dr. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making the announcement , Lightfoot warned city officials are watching “ all of our neighbors ” very carefully , and that Indiana is not ready for quarantine list — yet .
Read the full report from Fran Spielman here .
11:20 a.m. Paul McCartney , Chance the Rapper among Lollapalooza 2020 ‘ fan-favorite ’ official lineup Lollapalooza 2020 , which was moved to an online platform due to the coronavirus pandemic , announced its official lineup Monday .
The star-studded roster for the free , virtual 4-day music festival July 30-Aug. 2 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chance the Rapper , Arcade Fire , Outkast , Vic Mensa , Yeah Yeah Yeahs , Metallica and more , from prior Lolla fests across the globe .
Read the full story from Miriam Di Nunzio here .
9:30 a.m. Orioles-Marlins game in Miami postponed after players , coaches test positive for COVID-19 BALTIMORE — Orioles GM Mike Elias confirmed that Monday ’ s Orioles-Marlins game in Miami has been postponed .
ESPN reported that eight more Marlins players and two coaches tested positive for COVID-19 .
The Marlins now have a total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Marlins opened the delayed season with a three-game series in Philadelphia against the Phillies .
The Marlins postponed their flight home Sunday night .
Read the full report from the Associated Press here .
Health officials on Sunday announced an additional one person has died due to the coronavirus , making it the lowest reported COVID-19 death day since March 21 — three days after the state recorded its first death .
The one fatality — a 90-year-old man in Bond County — brings the state ’ s death toll to 7,398 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fatality rate has remained relatively low this month compared to the height of the pandemic in May , Illinois continued its upward trend of new coronavirus infections Sunday as health officials announced an additional 1,541 people have tested positive for the virus .
Read the full story from Madeline Kenney here .
• Orioles GM Mike Elias confirmed that Monday ’ s Orioles-Marlins game in Miami has been postponed after eight more Marlins players and two coaches tested positive for COVID-19 .
The Marlins now have a total of 14 cases in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trend of new coronavirus infections Sunday as health officials announced an additional 1,541 people have tested positive for the virus .
• Mel Gibson spent a week in a Los Angeles hospital in April after testing positive for COVID-19 , his representative revealed Friday .
The 64-year-old actor and director has completely recovered and is doing “ great ” according to the rep .
He also said Gibson has tested negative “ numerous times ” since then .
8:32 a.m. ‘ Drive-in ’ Mass in parking lot feeds faith , fellowship , despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure what to expect when my church emailed that worship services were resuming .
With attendance restrictions , how would they accommodate a robust parish of 3,000+ members , when prior to COVID-19 , there were few empty seats on a Sunday ?
It was “ Drive-In Mass.
” In the parking lot .
Pastor , musician and lectors under makeshift awnings .
Radios tuned to 88.1 FM to hear a service happening outside in front of you .
Aisles of hands outstretched as Eucharistic ministers walk between cars ; first , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As Catholics , my mother and I had bemoaned the pandemic ’ s separation of the faithful from their sanctuary .
We got what we needed from worship services online .
Yes .
But we sorely missed Communion , the consumption ritual of the Last Supper .
Read the full column from Maudlyne Ihejirika here .

Illinois announced its sixth straight day of more than 1,200 new COVID-19 cases and a positivity rate that keeps creeping up.
The coronavirus pandemic is far from over in Illinois. Here’s what happened Monday in Chicago and around the state in coronavirus-related news.
News
8:55 p.m. Lightfoot showcases $33 million in relief for renters and property owners
Three months after unveiling a non-binding “Housing Solidarity Pledge” that appeased no one, Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Monday showcased $33 million in relief for renters and property owners bankrolled by federal stimulus funds and local philanthropies.
Shortly after the stay-at-home shutdown triggered by the coronavirus, Lightfoot offered 2,000 Chicagoans struggling to stay in their homes grants of $1,000 apiece. The $2 million was nowhere near enough to meet the demand from 83,000 applicants.
Now, those who struck out in Round One will be “automatically transferred” to a $25 million Round 2, “more than ten times” the initial investment made by the Chicago Department of Housing There is no need to re-apply.
Together with $8 million from the Department of Family and Support Services, Chicago is dedicating $33 million to “eviction and foreclosure prevention,” officials said.
“Thanks to this investment, more Chicagoans will be able to stave off foreclosure, eviction and homelessness and the pain and insecurity that comes with it,” Lightfoot told a City Hall news conference.
Reporter Fran Spielman has the full story.
8:38 p.m. White Sox manager Rick Renteria passes test, expected to rejoin team
CLEVELAND — White Sox manager Rick Renteria woke up Monday morning with “a slight cough and nasal congestion” and took no chances. He would have missed the Sox’ rained out game against the Indians at Progressive Field while waiting for coronavirus test results.
The good news for Renteria, his team and baseball as a whole is that Renteria tested negative, according to major league sources, and was expected back with the team as soon as Tuesday when Monday’s rained out game is made up as part of a doubleheader.
The bad news is baseball is still teetering in a swirl of growing concerns about the pandemic. As the Sox arrived in Cleveland to open a three-game series and eight-game road trip, two games scheduled Monday were postponed after more than a dozen Miami Marlins players and staff members tested positive for the coronavirus in an outbreak that stranded the team in Philadelphia.
The Marlins’ home opener against Baltimore was called off, as was the New York Yankees’ game at Philadelphia. The Yankees would have been in the same clubhouse the Marlins used last weekend.
Reporter Daryl Van Schouwen has the full story.
7:23 p.m. Drama over safety of reopening leads theater to close again after 3 weekend shows
The facade of the Greenhouse Theater Center. File photo.
The tribute show to Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli that drew criticism for reopening during the pandemic is shutting down after three performances.
A statement on the Facebook page of star and co-producer Nancy Hays said the “well-meaning experiment” is closing in response to “vocal condemnation” from the public.
“We love the theatre and had no intention of causing distress or danger to anyone, so we apologize to those affected,” the statement said.
“Judy & Liza, Once in a Lifetime: The London Palladium Concert — A Tribute” had opened in March but ran less than a week before theaters were ordered closed. This remount had been slated to play through Aug. 9 at the Greenhouse Theater Center at 2257 N. Lincoln Avenue.
As Friday’s reopening neared, many in the Chicago theater community chided Greenhouse owners William and Wendy Spatz for moving forward with the show, and the venue’s general manager, Derek Rienzi Van Tassel, announced his resignation on Thursday, calling the remount “foolish and dangerous.”
Read the latest here.
4:30 p.m. CPS parents skeptical of return to schools in first meeting on reopening plan
The first of five community meetings hosted by Chicago Public Schools officials about a potential fall reopening featured hundreds of questions from parents and teachers, many of which were steeped in skepticism over whether in-classroom learning could be done safely in the middle of a pandemic.
Will there be more hand-washing stations at schools? What will happen when a student tests positive for COVID-19? Are teachers expected to move between “pods” of students? What type of instruction will students receive when they opt out of in-person learning?
Top CPS leadership, including CEO Janice Jackson, gave live answers to many questions — though they only got to a fraction in the 45 minutes set aside for a Q&A session, and there were many they couldn’t answer.
Responding to a question about potential cases at schools, CPS’ chief health officer Kenneth Fox said families will be expected to self-report to the district’s Office of Student Health and Wellness, providing their symptoms, noting when they first felt sick and other personal information.
The district would then gather information from that student’s school, such as which 15-student pod they were in, who else they had contact with and what part of the school they had been in. An entire pod would be sent home if one of its students tests positive, and anyone directly in contact with the positive case would be told to quarantine for 14 days.
Read the full story from Nader Issa here.
2:45 p.m. Pritzker predicts Illinois won’t return to normalcy until 2021
QUINCY, Ill. — Considering ditching the mask? Think again.
The year that everyone can’t wait to be over won’t be ending any time soon.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Monday that Illinois is unlikely to return to normalcy until sometime next year.
“We don’t have to do this forever,” the Democratic Governor said at a news conference in downstate Quincy. “We’re not there yet. And frankly, we’re not going to be there until 2021, in my humble opinion.
“I’m not a doctor, but that’s what my observation is, that we’re not going to be able to take off the mask and go about everything we were doing seven, eight months ago for a few more months, maybe six-plus months.”
Pritzker’s sobering prediction came as the state announced its sixth straight day of more than 1,200 new COVID-19 cases and a positivity rate that keeps creeping up.
Read the full story from Madeline Kenney and Neal Earley here.
2:30 p.m. Wisconsin being added to Chicago’s travel quarantine order
Mayor Lori LIghtfoot on Monday said the city will add Wisconsin to the list of states falling under a 14-day quarantine order.
That order that now applies to anyone arriving in Chicago from 19 states is not being strictly enforced. Compliance is voluntary.
Even so, Wisconsin’s presence on the list may make Chicagoans think twice before taking day trips to Lake Geneva or vacationing in Door County or the Wisconsin Dells.
The order has been “very successful from an education standpoint,” city health commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady said last week.
In making the announcement, Lightfoot warned city officials are watching “all of our neighbors” very carefully, and that Indiana is not ready for quarantine list — yet.
Read the full report from Fran Spielman here.
11:20 a.m. Paul McCartney, Chance the Rapper among Lollapalooza 2020 ‘fan-favorite’ official lineup
Lollapalooza 2020, which was moved to an online platform due to the coronavirus pandemic, announced its official lineup Monday.
The star-studded roster for the free, virtual 4-day music festival July 30-Aug. 2, includes fan-favorite sets by Paul McCartney, Chance the Rapper, Arcade Fire, Outkast, Vic Mensa, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Metallica and more, from prior Lolla fests across the globe.
Read the full story from Miriam Di Nunzio here.
9:30 a.m. Orioles-Marlins game in Miami postponed after players, coaches test positive for COVID-19
BALTIMORE — Orioles GM Mike Elias confirmed that Monday’s Orioles-Marlins game in Miami has been postponed.
ESPN reported that eight more Marlins players and two coaches tested positive for COVID-19. The Marlins now have a total of 14 cases in their clubhouse.
The Marlins opened the delayed season with a three-game series in Philadelphia against the Phillies. The Marlins postponed their flight home Sunday night.
Read the full report from the Associated Press here.
8:29 a.m. Illinois records lowest daily COVID-19 death count since March
Health officials on Sunday announced an additional one person has died due to the coronavirus, making it the lowest reported COVID-19 death day since March 21 — three days after the state recorded its first death.
The one fatality — a 90-year-old man in Bond County — brings the state’s death toll to 7,398.
Though the state’s coronavirus fatality rate has remained relatively low this month compared to the height of the pandemic in May, Illinois continued its upward trend of new coronavirus infections Sunday as health officials announced an additional 1,541 people have tested positive for the virus.
Read the full story from Madeline Kenney here.
New cases
Orioles GM Mike Elias confirmed that Monday’s Orioles-Marlins game in Miami has been postponed after eight more Marlins players and two coaches tested positive for COVID-19. The Marlins now have a total of 14 cases in their clubhouse.
Illinois continued its upward trend of new coronavirus infections Sunday as health officials announced an additional 1,541 people have tested positive for the virus.
Mel Gibson spent a week in a Los Angeles hospital in April after testing positive for COVID-19, his representative revealed Friday. The 64-year-old actor and director has completely recovered and is doing “great” according to the rep. He also said Gibson has tested negative “numerous times” since then.
Cubs quality assurance coach Mike Napoli tested positive for COVID-19.
Analysis & Commentary
8:32 a.m. ‘Drive-in’ Mass in parking lot feeds faith, fellowship, despite sudden storm
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when my church emailed that worship services were resuming.
With attendance restrictions, how would they accommodate a robust parish of 3,000+ members, when prior to COVID-19, there were few empty seats on a Sunday?
It was “Drive-In Mass.” In the parking lot. Pastor, musician and lectors under makeshift awnings. Radios tuned to 88.1 FM to hear a service happening outside in front of you.
Aisles of hands outstretched as Eucharistic ministers walk between cars; first, a spritz of sanitizer, then edifying Communion.
As Catholics, my mother and I had bemoaned the pandemic’s separation of the faithful from their sanctuary. We got what we needed from worship services online. Yes.
But we sorely missed Communion, the consumption ritual of the Last Supper.
Read the full column from Maudlyne Ihejirika here.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--White Sox’ Michael Kopech files for divorce from actress Vanessa Morgan: report

CLEVELAND — When Michael Kopech opted out of the 2020 season , the White Sox cited “ personal reasons , ” one of which came to light Monday when it was reported by the Tribune that the prized right-hander has filed for divorce from “ Riverdale ” actress Vanessa Morgan .
While sources close to Kopech reiterated Monday that numerous reasons factored into Kopech ’ s decision not to pitch this season , including physical concerns due to the short ramp up to what was going to be his comeback season from Tommy John surgery , Monday ’ s news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been at play .
With no photos or mention of Kopech , Morgan announced on Friday she was expecting a baby boy at a gender reveal party on Friday .
Court records show Kopech filed for divorce in Texas on June 19 .
They were married on Jan. 4 .
Kopech , who threw six pitches at 100 mph or higher and commanded his slider in his only appearance of spring training , a perfect inning against the Rangers in March , is one of baseball ’ s top young pitching talents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spring training raised hopes for what he would mean to the Sox rotation and the Sox ’ chances of making the postseason .
The Sox ’ starting rotation depth has already taken a hit with right-hander Reynaldo Lopez going on the injured list Monday four days into the 60-game season .
The Sox Lopez , removed from his first start Sunday in the first inning with a sore shoulder , went on the 10-day injured list with inflammation in his shoulder .
Lopez had an MRI done Monday in Chicago .
“ Hopefully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hopefully the inflammation within the 10 days will resolve , ” McEwing said .
Left-hander Gio Gonzalez will fill Lopez ’ spot in the rotation , McEwing said .
Gonzalez had a rough first outing with the Sox , allowing six earned runs in 3 2/3 innings .
He struck out three and walked one .
Lopez recorded two outs and was charged with six runs in a 14-2 loss to the Twins .
Counted on as an important cog in the rotation , the Sox were hoping for a bounceback season after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He posted a 3.91 ERA in 2018 , making 32 starts in both season .
Left fielder Eloy Jimenenz was not written in the lineup for Monday ’ s rained out game against the Indians but has “ improved a lot , ” McEwing said , after crashing into the left field wall Sunday and later coming out of the game because of lightheadedness .
McEwing said Jimenez woke up in Cleveland “ feeling pretty good ” Monday and played catch and hit off a tee .
“ We are just taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next couple of days to see where he ’ s at , ” McEwing said Right-hander Ian Hamilton and infielder Ryan Goins were recalled from the taxi squad in Schaumburg training .
Infielder Cheslor Cuthbert was designated for assignment .
Right-hander Matt Foster and catcher Yermin Mercedes are on the taxi squad players who traveled to Cleveland .
Monday ’ s rain out sets up a traditional doubleheader Tuesday ( 2:40 p.m. CST ) .
Right-handers Dylan Cease and Aaron Civale , slated to pitch Monday , will pitch in Game 1 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Indians righty Adam Plutko in the second game .

CLEVELAND — When prized White Sox right-hander Michael Kopech opted out of the 2020 season, the team cited ‘‘personal reasons.’’ One of those came to light Monday, when the Tribune reported Kopech has filed for divorce from ‘‘Riverdale’’ actress Vanessa Morgan.
While sources close to Kopech reiterated numerous reasons factored into his decision, including physical concerns about the short ramp-up to what was going to be his comeback season from Tommy John surgery, the news shed light on the personal matters at play.
With no photos or mention of Kopech, Morgan announced at a gender-reveal party Friday that she was expecting a baby boy. Court records show Kopech filed for divorce June 19 in Texas. They were married Jan. 4.
Kopech, who threw six pitches at 100 mph or faster in his only appearance of spring training — a perfect inning against the Rangers in March — is one of the top young pitching talents in the majors. His performance and side sessions during spring training raised hopes about what he would mean to the Sox’ rotation and their chances of making the playoffs.
Lopez on 10-day injured list
The depth of the Sox’ rotation already has taken a hit, with right-hander Reynaldo Lopez going on the injured list four days into the 60-game season.
Lopez, who was removed from his first start Sunday in the first inning against the Twins with a sore shoulder, went on the 10-day IL with inflammation in the shoulder. He had an MRI exam performed in Chicago.
‘‘Hopefully we got him under some medication, and hopefully the inflammation within the 10 days will resolve,’’ bench coach Joe McEwing said.
Left-hander Gio Gonzalez will fill Lopez’s spot in the rotation, McEwing said. Gonzalez had a rough first outing with the Sox, allowing six earned runs in 3 2/3 innings after taking over for Lopez against the Twins.
Lopez got two outs and was charged with four runs. The Sox were hoping for a bounce-back season from Lopez after he posted a 5.38 ERA last season.
Jimenez ‘‘improved a lot’’
Left fielder Eloy Jimenez wasn’t in the lineup against the Indians before the game was rained out Monday, but McEwing said he had ‘‘improved a lot’’ after crashing into the wall Sunday and later coming out of the game because of lightheadedness.
McEwing said Jimenez woke up in Cleveland ‘‘feeling pretty good,’’ played catch and hit off a tee.
‘‘We are just taking the correct measures to monitor him the next couple of days to see where he’s at,’’ McEwing said.
Hamilton, Goins join club
The Sox recalled right-hander Ian Hamilton and infielder Ryan Goins from their taxi squad in Schaumburg and designated infielder Cheslor Cuthbert for assignment.
Right-hander Matt Foster and catcher Yermin Mercedes are the taxi-squad players who traveled to Cleveland.
Let’s play two
The rainout set up a traditional doubleheader Tuesday, with the first game starting at 2:40 p.m. Right-handers Dylan Cease of the Sox and Aaron Civale of the Indians, who were scheduled to pitch Monday, will pitch in Game 1. Sox left-hander Carlos Rodon will oppose Indians right-hander Adam Plutko in Game 2.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--To keep franchise, ComEd must reform, Lightfoot warns

ComEd , which confessed to paying $ 1.3 million in bribes to associates of Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan , must enact ethics reform and other policy changes before the city will extend the utility ’ s franchise agreement , Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Monday .
Lightfoot delivered a shape-up-or-else ultimatum in a letter she emailed to ComEd CEO Joseph Dominguez .
The agreement that allows ComEd to provide electricity within Chicago expires at the end of 2020 , but how much leverage the city has in the situation is debatable .
ComEd ’ s owner , Exelon , will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corruption charges and agreed to continue cooperating in the Madigan-focused probe .
A copy of Lightfoot ’ s letter was given to the Sun-Times .
Saying she is “ deeply disturbed ” by the company ’ s admission , the mayor told Dominguez she finds “ the company ’ s response thus far to this clearly unethical behavior to be inadequate .
Good governance and transparency have been guiding principles for my administration , and I expect the same principled approach from any company that does business with the City of Chicago.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not make rash decisions about such an important and essential service as electricity.
” Lightfoot said to renew the franchise , “ the City expects the company to implement ( 1 ) a comprehensive ethics reform plan that rebuilds trust with the City , its residents and its businesses , and ( 2 ) my administration ’ s policy priorities around energy and sustainability , equitable economic development , utility affordability and transparency.
” Top executives at Chicago-based Exelon , in apologizing for the misconduct , said they have removed individuals involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ designed to curry favor from Madigan on important legislation .
ComEd admitted to federal charges that it derived at least $ 150 million in benefits from the scheme over an eight-year period ending in 2019 .
Madigan has not been charged .
Responding to the mayor , ComEd spokesman Paul Elsberg said : “ We have a lot of work to do to rebuild trust , and our commitment to working collaboratively with the City is stronger than ever — to build on the enormous customer benefits we ’ ve delivered , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best-ever customer satisfaction and billions of dollars in savings to customers , at the same time that residential customers ’ bills are less than they were nearly a decade ago and as ComEd requests a third delivery rate decrease in a row , the fifth in 10 years.
” Elsberg said ComEd has established “ four new mandatory policies that govern how employees interact with public officials.
” The end of the franchise agreement — in this case , a 20-year deal — provides any Chicago mayor with a rare opportunity to extract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s highly doubtful the city could take the extreme position and take over electric service itself .
That step would require City Hall to pay billions of dollars for ComEd ’ s assets here , an unlikely prospect at any time but especially now , with the municipal budget ripped apart by COVID-19 .
Lightfoot may be limited to demanding action from ComEd that in some cases might come anyway as part of its settlement with the U.S. Attorney ’ s office .
In the past , Lightfoot has said she would insist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of a new franchise deal .
Her letter did not contain that specific demand .
For residents and small businesses , ComEd has suspended shutoffs at least August .
In her letter to Dominguez , Lightfoot said ComEd ’ s $ 200 million fine must be measured against its 2019 revenue of $ 5.75 billion and its 2019 profit of $ 688 million .
She wrote , “ Put simply , ComEd touches every Chicagoan ’ s daily life ; I can only imagine the significant impact a $ 200 million investment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fine ) would have had improving our neighborhoods , assisting low-income consumers , or achieving clean energy goals.
” Lightfoot demanded “ a significant commitment from the company to right historic wrongs .
”

ComEd, which confessed to paying $1.3 million in bribes to associates of Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, must enact ethics reform and other policy changes before the city will extend the utility’s franchise agreement, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Monday.
Lightfoot delivered a shape-up-or-else ultimatum in a letter she emailed to ComEd CEO Joseph Dominguez. The agreement that allows ComEd to provide electricity within Chicago expires at the end of 2020, but how much leverage the city has in the situation is debatable.
ComEd’s owner, Exelon, will pay $200 million to settle federal corruption charges and agreed to continue cooperating in the Madigan-focused probe. A copy of Lightfoot’s letter was given to the Sun-Times.
Saying she is “deeply disturbed” by the company’s admission, the mayor told Dominguez she finds “the company’s response thus far to this clearly unethical behavior to be inadequate. Good governance and transparency have been guiding principles for my administration, and I expect the same principled approach from any company that does business with the City of Chicago.”
She added: “The City will not make rash decisions about such an important and essential service as electricity.” Lightfoot said to renew the franchise, “the City expects the company to implement (1) a comprehensive ethics reform plan that rebuilds trust with the City, its residents and its businesses, and (2) my administration’s policy priorities around energy and sustainability, equitable economic development, utility affordability and transparency.”
Top executives at Chicago-based Exelon, in apologizing for the misconduct, said they have removed individuals involved in the bribery, which they said was designed to curry favor from Madigan on important legislation. ComEd admitted to federal charges that it derived at least $150 million in benefits from the scheme over an eight-year period ending in 2019. Madigan has not been charged.
Responding to the mayor, ComEd spokesman Paul Elsberg said: “We have a lot of work to do to rebuild trust, and our commitment to working collaboratively with the City is stronger than ever — to build on the enormous customer benefits we’ve delivered, including 70 percent improved reliability since 2012, best-ever customer satisfaction and billions of dollars in savings to customers, at the same time that residential customers’ bills are less than they were nearly a decade ago and as ComEd requests a third delivery rate decrease in a row, the fifth in 10 years.”
Elsberg said ComEd has established “four new mandatory policies that govern how employees interact with public officials.”
The end of the franchise agreement — in this case, a 20-year deal — provides any Chicago mayor with a rare opportunity to extract concessions from ComEd. But it’s highly doubtful the city could take the extreme position and take over electric service itself.
That step would require City Hall to pay billions of dollars for ComEd’s assets here, an unlikely prospect at any time but especially now, with the municipal budget ripped apart by COVID-19. Lightfoot may be limited to demanding action from ComEd that in some cases might come anyway as part of its settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s office.
In the past, Lightfoot has said she would insist on an end to utility shutoffs as part of a new franchise deal. Her letter did not contain that specific demand. For residents and small businesses, ComEd has suspended shutoffs at least August.
In her letter to Dominguez, Lightfoot said ComEd’s $200 million fine must be measured against its 2019 revenue of $5.75 billion and its 2019 profit of $688 million. She wrote, “Put simply, ComEd touches every Chicagoan’s daily life; I can only imagine the significant impact a $200 million investment of money in the city (versus a fine) would have had improving our neighborhoods, assisting low-income consumers, or achieving clean energy goals.”
Lightfoot demanded “a significant commitment from the company to right historic wrongs.”


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--Wahlburgers St. Charles location set to open Tuesday

The restaurant company announced the suburban Chicago location at 825 S. Randall Road in St. Charles will open to the public at 11 a.m. Tuesday .
The opening will abide by all Illinois pandemic reopening guidelines for safety amid the COVID-19 pandemic including PPE for all employees , socially distanced dining options and hand sanitizer stations throughout the location .
“ St .
Charles holds a very special place in my heart , ” said co-owner , New Kids on the Block member and actor Donnie Wahlberg via statement .
Wahlberg and his wife , actress Jenny McCarthy , reside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so many in our industry , we ’ ve faced a lot of setbacks due to the impact of COVID-19 , but we are determined to deliver on my promise to bring a safe , exciting and unique dining experience to the Fox Valley.
” The groundbreaking for the the 5,000 square-foot casual restaurant and bar took place in 2019 .
In addition to indoor dining , the new location ( a River North Wahlburgers location is temporarily closed due to the pandemic ) also features outdoor seating and a new immersive “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company statement .
“ The whimsical and social media-friendly corner of the restaurant will include a fun-filled and family-oriented pop-up art exhibit for guests to pose in front of for photos.
” The menu boasts loaded tater tot appetizers , classic burgers and chicken sandwiches , salads , kids meals , signature shakes and more .
A full-service bar features cocktails , wine and a variety of beers including the signature Wahlbrewski pale ale .
Takeout and delivery are available via the Wahlburgers app , Doordash and Uber Eats , online at wahltogo.com @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 235-5200 .
Delivery is available via partners Doordash and Uber Eats .
Wahlburgers St. Charles will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for lunch and dinner .

The newest Chicago area Wahlburgers has arrived.
The restaurant company announced the suburban Chicago location at 825 S. Randall Road in St. Charles will open to the public at 11 a.m. Tuesday.
The opening will abide by all Illinois pandemic reopening guidelines for safety amid the COVID-19 pandemic including PPE for all employees, socially distanced dining options and hand sanitizer stations throughout the location.
“St. Charles holds a very special place in my heart,” said co-owner, New Kids on the Block member and actor Donnie Wahlberg via statement. Wahlberg and his wife, actress Jenny McCarthy, reside in the western suburb. “Like so many in our industry, we’ve faced a lot of setbacks due to the impact of COVID-19, but we are determined to deliver on my promise to bring a safe, exciting and unique dining experience to the Fox Valley.”
The famous Wahlbrewski beer is among the drink and cocktails options at Wahlburgers. | Courtesy Wahlburgers
The groundbreaking for the the 5,000 square-foot casual restaurant and bar took place in 2019. In addition to indoor dining, the new location (a River North Wahlburgers location is temporarily closed due to the pandemic) also features outdoor seating and a new immersive “Happy Place” area, according to company statement. “The whimsical and social media-friendly corner of the restaurant will include a fun-filled and family-oriented pop-up art exhibit for guests to pose in front of for photos.”
The menu boasts loaded tater tot appetizers, classic burgers and chicken sandwiches, salads, kids meals, signature shakes and more. A full-service bar features cocktails, wine and a variety of beers including the signature Wahlbrewski pale ale.
Takeout and delivery are available via the Wahlburgers app, Doordash and Uber Eats, online at wahltogo.com or by phone at (331) 235-5200. Delivery is available via partners Doordash and Uber Eats.
Wahlburgers St. Charles will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for lunch and dinner.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--Teen shot dead in Joliet

Teen shot dead in Joliet

A 16-year-old boy was killed in a shooting Sunday in Joliet , police said .
Officers found the teen with @ @ @ @ @ head about 10:16 a.m. near the intersection of Ottawa and Monroe streets , Joliet police @ @ @ @ @ dead at the scene by the fire department , police said .
Anyone with information @ @ @ @ @ at 815-724-3020 .

A 16-year-old boy was killed in a shooting Sunday in Joliet, police said.
Officers found the teen with a gunshot wound to the head about 10:16 a.m. near the intersection of Ottawa and Monroe streets, Joliet police said.
He was pronounced dead at the scene by the fire department, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 815-724-3020.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--$33 million in relief for renters and property owners affected by COVID-19

Three months after unveiling a non-binding “ Housing Solidarity Pledge ” that appeased no one , Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Monday showcased $ 33 million in relief for renters and property owners bankrolled by federal stimulus funds and local philanthropies .
Shortly after the stay-at-home shutdown triggered by the coronavirus , Lightfoot offered 2,000 Chicagoans struggling to stay in their homes grants of $ 1,000 apiece .
The $ 2 million was nowhere near enough to meet the demand from 83,000 applicants .
Now , those who struck out in Round One will be “ automatically transferred ” to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than ten times ” the initial investment made by the Chicago Department of Housing There is no need to re-apply .
Together with $ 8 million from the Department of Family and Support Services , Chicago is dedicating $ 33 million to “ eviction and foreclosure prevention , ” officials said .
“ Thanks to this investment , more Chicagoans will be able to stave off foreclosure , eviction and homelessness and the pain and insecurity that comes with it , ” Lightfoot told a City Hall news conference .
“ This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city and our many families that will be hurting just a little bit less.
” Housing Commissioner Marisa Novara said the city “ self-funded ” the $ 2 million first round of rental assistance grants “ precisely because we did not know how long it was going to take us … to put together what we hoped was a stream of government funds that would help us to do more.
” To stave off a wave of foreclosures , the city has set aside $ 3.5 million to provide mortgage assistance for struggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago , will earmark up to $ 3,300 “ directly to lenders to cover past-due payments , future payments or both.
” To qualify , one must be an “ owner-occupant homeowner ” enduring “ COVID-19-related financial hardship ” and earn no more than 120 % of the average median income .
Another $ 500,000 will bankroll “ pro-bono attorneys for COVID-impacted Chicagoans at immediate risk of eviction ” through the Lawyers Committee for Better Housing .
Well aware the alphabet soup of assistance programs can be confusing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ established — chi.gov/housinghelp — to help direct struggling Chicagoans to the housing resources that meet their needs best .
The Cook County eviction moratorium in place throughout the pandemic ends Aug. 22 .
“ In total , we anticipate that our funds will assist a minimum of 10,000 households to stay in the places that they call home , ” Novara said .
On April 29 , residential housing groups , landlord associations and lenders signed a non-binding “ Housing Solidarity Pledge ” to show “ flexibility and restraint ” in dealing with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hardship to prevent the pandemic from triggering another wave of foreclosures .
Participating landlords agreed to offer grace periods with terms that “ avoid repayment at the end of the deferral period.
” They also promised to waive late fees for missed payments and allow renters who miss payments to amortize those payments over time .
No one was satisfied because it was only a pledge .
But with $ 1.1 billion avalanche of federal stimulus funds , Chicago is now in a position to deliver more .
“ What you see today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the city of Chicago to provide needed , critical resources for families to stay in their homes during the middle of a pandemic , ” said Ald .
Harry Osterman ( 48th ) , chairman of the City Council ’ s Housing Committee .
“ This has an impact on families .
But it also has an impact on communities .
”

Three months after unveiling a non-binding “Housing Solidarity Pledge” that appeased no one, Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Monday showcased $33 million in relief for renters and property owners bankrolled by federal stimulus funds and local philanthropies.
Shortly after the stay-at-home shutdown triggered by the coronavirus, Lightfoot offered 2,000 Chicagoans struggling to stay in their homes grants of $1,000 apiece. The $2 million was nowhere near enough to meet the demand from 83,000 applicants.
Now, those who struck out in Round One will be “automatically transferred” to a $25 million Round 2, “more than ten times” the initial investment made by the Chicago Department of Housing There is no need to re-apply.
La Voz Sidebar 2023 Lea este artículo en español en La Voz Chicago.
Together with $8 million from the Department of Family and Support Services, Chicago is dedicating $33 million to “eviction and foreclosure prevention,” officials said.
“Thanks to this investment, more Chicagoans will be able to stave off foreclosure, eviction and homelessness and the pain and insecurity that comes with it,” Lightfoot told a City Hall news conference.
“This is truly a special day for our city and our many families that will be hurting just a little bit less.”
Housing Commissioner Marisa Novara said the city “self-funded” the $2 million first round of rental assistance grants “precisely because we did not know how long it was going to take us … to put together what we hoped was a stream of government funds that would help us to do more.”
To stave off a wave of foreclosures, the city has set aside $3.5 million to provide mortgage assistance for struggling homeowners. That program, operated by Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, will earmark up to $3,300 “directly to lenders to cover past-due payments, future payments or both.”
To qualify, one must be an “owner-occupant homeowner” enduring “COVID-19-related financial hardship” and earn no more than 120% of the average median income.
Another $500,000 will bankroll “pro-bono attorneys for COVID-impacted Chicagoans at immediate risk of eviction” through the Lawyers Committee for Better Housing.
Well aware the alphabet soup of assistance programs can be confusing, a new online city portal has been established — chi.gov/housinghelp — to help direct struggling Chicagoans to the housing resources that meet their needs best.
The Cook County eviction moratorium in place throughout the pandemic ends Aug. 22.
“In total, we anticipate that our funds will assist a minimum of 10,000 households to stay in the places that they call home,” Novara said.
On April 29, residential housing groups, landlord associations and lenders signed a non-binding “Housing Solidarity Pledge” to show “flexibility and restraint” in dealing with one another during this unprecedented time of hardship to prevent the pandemic from triggering another wave of foreclosures.
Participating landlords agreed to offer grace periods with terms that “avoid repayment at the end of the deferral period.” They also promised to waive late fees for missed payments and allow renters who miss payments to amortize those payments over time.
No one was satisfied because it was only a pledge.
But with $1.1 billion avalanche of federal stimulus funds, Chicago is now in a position to deliver more.
“What you see today is partnership with government, with non-profits across the city of Chicago to provide needed, critical resources for families to stay in their homes during the middle of a pandemic,” said Ald. Harry Osterman (48th), chairman of the City Council’s Housing Committee.
“This has an impact on families. But it also has an impact on communities.”


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--Bears put rookie RB on Reserve/COVID-19 list

The Bears have their first coronavirus-related roster move .
Monday , the team put Artavis Pierce , a rookie running @ @ @ @ @ on the NFL ’ s new Reserve/COVID-19 list .
The designation is intended for players @ @ @ @ @ the virus or have been in close contact with someone who has .
Pierce was @ @ @ @ @ to be placed on the list Monday .
Players on the list are removed when @ @ @ @ @ began testing rookies last week .
Veterans are testing this week , with Tuesday marking @ @ @ @ @ camp .
The Bears signed Pierce as an undrafted free agent after he ran for @ @ @ @ @ , at Oregon State .
He led the Beavers with 873 rushing yards last year @ @ @ @ @ a practice squad role .
The Bears are set at the top of their running @ @ @ @ @ David Montgomery the lead back and Tarik Cohen the pass-catcher .

The Bears have their first coronavirus-related roster move.
Monday, the team put Artavis Pierce, a rookie running back from Oregon State, on the NFL’s new Reserve/COVID-19 list. The designation is intended for players who either tested positive for the virus or have been in close contact with someone who has.
Pierce was one of 18 players league-wide to be placed on the list Monday. Players on the list are removed when proven healthy.
The Bears began testing rookies last week. Veterans are testing this week, with Tuesday marking the official start of training camp.
The Bears signed Pierce as an undrafted free agent after he ran for 2,127 yards, 10th-most all-time, at Oregon State. He led the Beavers with 873 rushing yards last year.
Pierce could compete for a practice squad role. The Bears are set at the top of their running back depth chart, with David Montgomery the lead back and Tarik Cohen the pass-catcher.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-27--‘Slap in the face’ that Chicago school where officers dragged girl down stairs voted to keep its cop

‘Slap in the face’ that Chicago school where officers dragged girl down stairs voted to keep its cops, father says

The father of a recently graduated Chicago Public Schools student said it ’ s a “ slap in the face ” that his daughter ’ s former school has decided to keep its police officers after two cops at the school dragged her down a set of stairs and shocked her with a stun gun last year .
The Local School Council at Marshall Metropolitan High School in East Garfield Park is one of 15 schools that have voted in recent weeks to maintain their participation in CPS ’ school resource officer program , which puts uniformed Chicago police officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voted to keep the officers , none voted to remove them and three members abstained , according to CPS records published online late Friday .
The LSCs at two schools — made up of elected parents , staff , community members , the principal and a lone student — have opted to remove their cops , and more than 50 others are set to decide in the next two weeks .
Laurentio Howard , whose daughter Dnigma ’ s encounter with a pair of school officers was captured on video and drew national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools , first found out about the decision at Marshall when contacted by a Chicago Sun-Times reporter .
“ I ’ m upset about that .
It ’ s like , I don ’ t know , like a slap in the face , really , ” Howard said .
“ I mean , they ’ re going to vote to keep them in there after what they did to my daughter ?
It seems like they didn ’ t really care.
” Howard said he believes that as long as police officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to situations outside their assignments , which have since been redefined in an agreement with CPS .
The school should spend the money on counselors instead , he said .
“ I guarantee you , they are going to have more issues with the police officers there , ” Howard said .
Dnigma had a special education behavior plan in place when officers intervened in a disciplinary incident because she had a cellphone out in class .
Chicago police initially charged Dnigma , who was 16 at the time , with felony counts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulled them down the stairs and punched them .
The Cook County state ’ s attorney ’ s office later dropped the charges “ in the interest of justice ” after video first surfaced in a Sun-Times report last year of the officers dragging Dnigma down the stairs .
The family is suing the city and school district .
“ Without the cellphone [ video ] my daughter would probably be in jail right now , ” Howard said .

The father of a recently graduated Chicago Public Schools student said it’s a “slap in the face” that his daughter’s former school has decided to keep its police officers after two cops at the school dragged her down a set of stairs and shocked her with a stun gun last year.
The Local School Council at Marshall Metropolitan High School in East Garfield Park is one of 15 schools that have voted in recent weeks to maintain their participation in CPS’ school resource officer program, which puts uniformed Chicago police officers in high schools. Six LSC members voted to keep the officers, none voted to remove them and three members abstained, according to CPS records published online late Friday.
The LSCs at two schools — made up of elected parents, staff, community members, the principal and a lone student — have opted to remove their cops, and more than 50 others are set to decide in the next two weeks.
Laurentio Howard, whose daughter Dnigma’s encounter with a pair of school officers was captured on video and drew national attention to the issue of police in schools, first found out about the decision at Marshall when contacted by a Chicago Sun-Times reporter.
“I’m upset about that. It’s like, I don’t know, like a slap in the face, really,” Howard said. “I mean, they’re going to vote to keep them in there after what they did to my daughter? It seems like they didn’t really care.”
Howard said he believes that as long as police officers are in schools, they will respond to situations outside their assignments, which have since been redefined in an agreement with CPS. The school should spend the money on counselors instead, he said.
“I guarantee you, they are going to have more issues with the police officers there,” Howard said.
Dnigma had a special education behavior plan in place when officers intervened in a disciplinary incident because she had a cellphone out in class. Chicago police initially charged Dnigma, who was 16 at the time, with felony counts of battery after the officers said she pulled them down the stairs and punched them.
The Cook County state’s attorney’s office later dropped the charges “in the interest of justice” after video first surfaced in a Sun-Times report last year of the officers dragging Dnigma down the stairs. The family is suing the city and school district.
“Without the cellphone [video] my daughter would probably be in jail right now,” Howard said.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-28--Dear Abby: Should I apologize for mistakes I made 20 years ago?

DEAR ABBY : Is it ever too late to apologize to an ex-boyfriend ?
I ’ m in my mid-40s now , and over the last three years , I have gone through a significant change .
It has helped me to face myself , let go of useless hate and anger and forgive the people who hurt me .
It has made me a much happier person .
One of the results of this change is realizing how much I dislike who I was when I was younger .
I ’ m sure many people made mistakes in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , because I know I did .
But now I can ’ t .
I ’ m ashamed of my previous behavior and have been thinking about reaching out to him to apologize for the horrible things I did while we were together .
My family says I shouldn ’ t do it .
They say I ’ m being ridiculous because “ who cares about how an old partner treated you decades ago ?
” But I ’ m struggling with letting it go .
I learned years ago to take responsibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s something I didn ’ t do in that relationship .
I ’ m currently in a solid and happy relationship , which is why I think my family may be so against this , and while I don ’ t know my ex ’ s relationship status , I have no ulterior motives for reaching out .
The person I am today just wants very much to apologize for the person I used to be , but I don ’ t want to cause any problems .
What is your neutral advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SORRY IN THE SOUTHWEST : I don ’ t think it is ever too late to say “ I ’ m sorry , ” and I seriously doubt that an overdue apology for your past behavior would cause problems .
Because you feel compelled to offer one , go ahead and do it .
You may be pleasantly surprised to find that your former flame recovered from whatever you did and went on with his life as you have with yours .
And if that ’ s not the case , he may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as you need to give it .
DEAR ABBY : My family and I moved to Las Vegas seven months ago , and we love it here .
We are not heavy gamblers , but we occasionally like to hit a local casino ( once , maybe twice a month ) and never spend more than $ 50 .
We consider it paying for entertainment rather than a chance at winning it big .
My parents are coming to visit soon and , unfortunately , they have had a history of compulsive gambling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have been going to support groups off and on for the past year .
We have lots of off-strip fun planned , but I know they will want to visit a casino because , well , it ’ s Vegas !
Would I be enabling them if I went with them to a casino ?
Could this trigger more compulsive gambling when they return home ?
Are there any boundaries I should set ?
I don ’ t want to see them spiral into their addiction again , but I also want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happens in Vegas ... ” vacation mentality during their visit .
— GAMBLING WITH THEIR ADDICTION DEAR GAMBLING : The “ what happens in Vegas ( stays in Vegas ) ” mentality means that what happened in Vegas was not something to be proud of .
It would absolutely challenge your parents ’ “ sobriety ” if you take them to a casino , and your fear that it could jump-start a relapse is well-founded .
Keep them busy , but don ’ t take them to places where they are tempted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it on their own , you won ’ t have anything to feel guilty about .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .
For everything you need to know about wedding planning , order “ How to Have a Lovely Wedding.
” Send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Abby , Wedding Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and handling are included in the price . )

DEAR ABBY: Is it ever too late to apologize to an ex-boyfriend? I’m in my mid-40s now, and over the last three years, I have gone through a significant change. It has helped me to face myself, let go of useless hate and anger and forgive the people who hurt me. It has made me a much happier person.
One of the results of this change is realizing how much I dislike who I was when I was younger. I’m sure many people made mistakes in their early 20s and maybe blew it off, because I know I did. But now I can’t. I’m ashamed of my previous behavior and have been thinking about reaching out to him to apologize for the horrible things I did while we were together.
My family says I shouldn’t do it. They say I’m being ridiculous because “who cares about how an old partner treated you decades ago?” But I’m struggling with letting it go. I learned years ago to take responsibility for my mistakes, but it’s something I didn’t do in that relationship.
I’m currently in a solid and happy relationship, which is why I think my family may be so against this, and while I don’t know my ex’s relationship status, I have no ulterior motives for reaching out. The person I am today just wants very much to apologize for the person I used to be, but I don’t want to cause any problems. What is your neutral advice? — SORRY IN THE SOUTHWEST
DEAR SORRY IN THE SOUTHWEST: I don’t think it is ever too late to say “I’m sorry,” and I seriously doubt that an overdue apology for your past behavior would cause problems. Because you feel compelled to offer one, go ahead and do it. You may be pleasantly surprised to find that your former flame recovered from whatever you did and went on with his life as you have with yours. And if that’s not the case, he may need to receive your apology as much as you need to give it.
DEAR ABBY: My family and I moved to Las Vegas seven months ago, and we love it here. We are not heavy gamblers, but we occasionally like to hit a local casino (once, maybe twice a month) and never spend more than $50. We consider it paying for entertainment rather than a chance at winning it big.
My parents are coming to visit soon and, unfortunately, they have had a history of compulsive gambling. They admit they have a problem and have been going to support groups off and on for the past year.
We have lots of off-strip fun planned, but I know they will want to visit a casino because, well, it’s Vegas! Would I be enabling them if I went with them to a casino? Could this trigger more compulsive gambling when they return home? Are there any boundaries I should set? I don’t want to see them spiral into their addiction again, but I also want us all to enjoy the “What happens in Vegas ...” vacation mentality during their visit. — GAMBLING WITH THEIR ADDICTION
DEAR GAMBLING: The “what happens in Vegas (stays in Vegas)” mentality means that what happened in Vegas was not something to be proud of. It would absolutely challenge your parents’ “sobriety” if you take them to a casino, and your fear that it could jump-start a relapse is well-founded. Keep them busy, but don’t take them to places where they are tempted to gamble. If they decide to do it on their own, you won’t have anything to feel guilty about.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
For everything you need to know about wedding planning, order “How to Have a Lovely Wedding.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Wedding Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosun-times--2020-07-28--2 killed, 1 wounded, in 2 separate shootings in West Garfield Park: police

Two people were killed and one person was wounded in two separate shootings Tuesday in West Garfield Park on the West Side .
The first shooting claimed the life of an unidentified person in the 4700 block of West Arthington Street , according to Chicago police .
The male was found inside a vehicle in the with multiple gunshot wounds to his body , police said .
About twenty minutes later , a 33-year-old man was fatally shot blocks away , in the 4500 block of West Van Buren Street , police said .
Just before 4 a.m. officers responding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gunshot wounds to his ear , chest and arm , police said .
He was taken to Stroger Hospital where he was pronounced dead , police said .
A 37-year-old man was also standing outside in the same block when someone fired shots at him , police said .
He was struck in both legs , the abdomen and his lower backside , but was able to run to the 4500 block of West Congress Parkway , where a friend found him and took him to Stroger Hospital .
He is in fair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been made in either the shootings , police said .
Area Four detectives are investigating .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

Two shootings early Tuesday in West Garfield Park left two men dead and another wounded, according to police.
The first fatal shooting happened about 3:40 a.m. in the 4700 block of West Arthington Street, Chicago police.
A man, 31, was found inside a vehicle in the with gunshot wounds to his body, police said. He died at the scene.
He was identified as David J. Abdulkarim, the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. An autopsy ruled his death a homicide.
Minutes later and just blocks away, another shooting killed one man and left another wounded.
About 4 a.m., officers found a 33-year-old with gunshot wounds to his chest, arm and ear in the 4500 block of West Van Buren Street, police said.
He was taken to Stroger Hospital where he was pronounced dead, police said. The medical examiner’s office identified him as Dante A. Morris, of west suburban Maywood.
Another man on the same block, a 37-year-old, was struck in his legs, abdomen and his lower back, police said. He ran to the 4500 block of West Congress Parkway, where a friend found him and took him to Stroger Hospital. He was listed in fair condition.
No arrests have been made in either shooting. It was unclear if the shootings were related.
Area Four detectives are conducting a homicide investigation.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-28--22 shot, 2 fatally, Monday in Chicago

22 shot, 2 fatally, Monday in Chicago

Twenty-two people were shot , two of them fatally , Monday in Chicago .
The day ’ s most recent fatal shooting killed one person and wounded four others in Burnside on the South Side , according to police .
They were sitting on a porch about 6:15 p.m. in the 700 block of East 92nd Place when a white-colored vehicle drove by and someone inside opened fire , Chicago police said .
A 22-year-old man was struck in the back and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center , where he was pronounced dead , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot in the buttocks and taken to the same hospital in critical condition .
Two other men , 26 and 24 , were taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn in good condition , police said .
The older man was shot in the arm while the younger man was struck in the leg .
A 25-year-old woman was taken to Trinity Hospital in good condition with a gunshot wound to the thigh , police said .
Earlier in the day a man was shot dead in Chatham on the South Side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the 8600 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue when someone in a black sedan fired shots , police said .
He was struck in the head , abdomen and leg .
His car struck a building about a block away , and he was pronounced dead at the University of Chicago Medical Center , police said .
The Cook County medical examiner ’ s office identified him as 26-year-old Lasean Deyoung .
In non-fatal shootings , a 10-month-old girl was critically wounded in a shooting on the Bishop Ford Expressway on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while in the back seat of a northbound car on I-94 north of 115th Street , according to Illinois State Police .
The driver , a 21-year-old man , heard a single gunshot at 11:15 a.m. and then noticed the baby was injured , state police said .
A 17-year-old girl who was also in the car was not injured .
The child , shot in the temple , was driven to Roseland Hospital , Chicago police said .
She was in the process of being transferred to a trauma center .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wounded a man in East Garfield Park .
The 30-year-old was taking out the trash about 9:51 p.m. in the 400 block of South Central Park Avenue when someone in a gray Impala fired shots at a white Hyundai , police said .
A bullet struck the man in the foot , and he took himself to Stroger Hospital where he was listed in good condition , police said .
Minutes prior an 18-year-old man was shot in South Deering on the South Side .
About 9:40 p.m. he was exiting a residence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Avenue , when someone fired shots at him , police said .
He was struck in the leg and taken to Trinity Hospital in fair condition , police said .
A man was shot in Heart of Chicago on the Lower West Side .
The 19-year-old was walking about 9 p.m. in the 2300 block of South Leavitt Street when someone pulled up in a vehicle and opened fire , police said .
The man was struck in the leg and taken to Mount Sinai Hospital in good condition , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Northwest Side .
An 18-year-old was involved in an argument with someone who fired shots about 7:15 p.m. in the 3000 block of North Cicero Avenue , police said .
The man was shot in the buttocks and taken to Illinois Masonic Medical Center , police said .
Another man , 56 , who was riding his bicycle nearby was struck in the back and taken to the same hospital , police said .
Two men were shot in Gresham on the South Side .
They were on the sidewalk about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West 81st Street when someone fired shots from a black Jeep , police said .
A 33-year-old was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in good condition with a gunshot wound , police said .
Another man , 50 , was shot in the thigh and taken to the same hospital , where he was also listed in good condition .
Eight other people were wounded in shootings across Chicago .
Fifty-nine people were shot , three of them fatally , last weekend in Chicago .
Read more on crime , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Twenty-two people were shot, two of them fatally, Monday in Chicago.
The day’s most recent fatal shooting killed one person and wounded four others in Burnside on the South Side, according to police.
They were sitting on a porch about 6:15 p.m. in the 700 block of East 92nd Place when a white-colored vehicle drove by and someone inside opened fire, Chicago police said.
A 22-year-old man was struck in the back and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, police said. Another man, also 22, was shot in the buttocks and taken to the same hospital in critical condition.
Two other men, 26 and 24, were taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn in good condition, police said. The older man was shot in the arm while the younger man was struck in the leg.
A 25-year-old woman was taken to Trinity Hospital in good condition with a gunshot wound to the thigh, police said.
Earlier in the day a man was shot dead in Chatham on the South Side.
He was driving about 1:28 a.m. in the 8600 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue when someone in a black sedan fired shots, police said. He was struck in the head, abdomen and leg.
His car struck a building about a block away, and he was pronounced dead at the University of Chicago Medical Center, police said.
The Cook County medical examiner’s office identified him as 26-year-old Lasean Deyoung.
In non-fatal shootings, a 10-month-old girl was critically wounded in a shooting on the Bishop Ford Expressway on the South Side.
The child was shot while in the back seat of a northbound car on I-94 north of 115th Street, according to Illinois State Police.
The driver, a 21-year-old man, heard a single gunshot at 11:15 a.m. and then noticed the baby was injured, state police said. A 17-year-old girl who was also in the car was not injured.
The child, shot in the temple, was driven to Roseland Hospital, Chicago police said. She was in the process of being transferred to a trauma center.
The day’s most recent reported shooting wounded a man in East Garfield Park.
The 30-year-old was taking out the trash about 9:51 p.m. in the 400 block of South Central Park Avenue when someone in a gray Impala fired shots at a white Hyundai, police said.
A bullet struck the man in the foot, and he took himself to Stroger Hospital where he was listed in good condition, police said.
Minutes prior an 18-year-old man was shot in South Deering on the South Side.
About 9:40 p.m. he was exiting a residence in the 10500 block of South Oglesby Avenue, when someone fired shots at him, police said.
He was struck in the leg and taken to Trinity Hospital in fair condition, police said.
A man was shot in Heart of Chicago on the Lower West Side.
The 19-year-old was walking about 9 p.m. in the 2300 block of South Leavitt Street when someone pulled up in a vehicle and opened fire, police said.
The man was struck in the leg and taken to Mount Sinai Hospital in good condition, police said.
Two men were wounded in a shooting on the Northwest Side.
An 18-year-old was involved in an argument with someone who fired shots about 7:15 p.m. in the 3000 block of North Cicero Avenue, police said.
The man was shot in the buttocks and taken to Illinois Masonic Medical Center, police said.
Another man, 56, who was riding his bicycle nearby was struck in the back and taken to the same hospital, police said.
Two men were shot in Gresham on the South Side.
They were on the sidewalk about 5:50 p.m. in the 1200 block of West 81st Street when someone fired shots from a black Jeep, police said.
A 33-year-old was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in good condition with a gunshot wound, police said. Another man, 50, was shot in the thigh and taken to the same hospital, where he was also listed in good condition.
Eight other people were wounded in shootings across Chicago.
Fifty-nine people were shot, three of them fatally, last weekend in Chicago.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-28--‘I Used To Go Here’: Gillian Jacobs aces it as a bummed alum back on campus

The back-to-school comedy/drama “ I Used To Go Here ” has a lot going for it pretty deep into the story — but like a college freshman who aces the first semester but hits the wall after the holiday break , it runs into some unexpected barriers and walks quietly across the finish line .
Still , the overall GPA is in the solid B range .
Despite some late misgivings , there ’ s much to recommend in the talented writer-director Kris Rey ’ s indie-vibe story , from the pitch-perfect depiction of off-campus life at a state school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on technology to learn the truth about certain relationships , to the winning and authentic performance by Gillian Jacobs as a 35-year-old Chicago writer experiencing career and personal crises simultaneously .
Jacobs ’ Kate has recently published her first novel , titled “ Seasons Passed ” —but as she learns in a phone call with a couple of chipper publicists who sound amazingly upbeat as they deliver terrible news , initial sales have been so disappointing they ’ ve canceled her promotional book tour .
( Based on the excerpts we hear , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got published , let alone garnered enough early buzz to warrant a book tour . )
If that ’ s not bad enough , Kate opens a box filled with invitations to her wedding — a wedding that ain ’ t happening because her fiancé dumped her and apparently has moved on to new romantic ground rather quickly .
Oh , and three of Kate ’ s closest friends are pregnant at the same time , which makes her feel like she ’ s behind EVERYONE in terms of grown-up life progress .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of professorial authority and not-so-subtle sleaziness as David , who was Kate ’ s mentor in college and is still teaching at her alma mater in downstate Carbondale .
David invites Kate to give a reading of her novel , and she jumps at the chance to get out of Chicago , reconnect with her past and see David for the first time in 15 years .
A fantastically funny Rammel Chan plays the super-chipper student guide Elliot , who picks up Kate at the train station and takes her to the bed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staying — which is right across the street from her old college house .
Kate quickly falls into a rebel daughter/disapproving mother dynamic with the no-nonsense Mrs. Beeter ( Cindy Gold , brilliant ) , who runs the B & B , and she finds herself hanging out at the old house with the current occupants , are bemused by the presence of this 35-year-old woman but are collectively a kind and understanding bunch who recognize Kate is a mess and make her part of their group .
( The attention to detail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoons a bowl of cereal while ambling about the house to the empty beer bottles perched on the ledge on the front porch , to the manner in which these college kids interact with each other . )
Some later developments , most notably a mission to reveal David for the cad he truly is , are broader in tone and not as involving as the buildup .
But there ’ s a wonderfully weird development regarding the mother of one of the roommates , and a possible fling for Kate that comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off-putting .
Throughout , the always likable Gillian Jacobs creates a memorable portrayal of a woman who ’ s a mess but still rather wonderful .

The back-to-school comedy/drama “I Used To Go Here” has a lot going for it pretty deep into the story — but like a college freshman who aces the first semester but hits the wall after the holiday break, it runs into some unexpected barriers and walks quietly across the finish line. Still, the overall GPA is in the solid B range.
Despite some late misgivings, there’s much to recommend in the talented writer-director Kris Rey’s indie-vibe story, from the pitch-perfect depiction of off-campus life at a state school to the manner in which characters rely on technology to learn the truth about certain relationships, to the winning and authentic performance by Gillian Jacobs as a 35-year-old Chicago writer experiencing career and personal crises simultaneously.
‘I Used to Go Here’
Untitled Gravitas Ventures presents a film written and directed by Kris Rey. No MPAA rating. Running time: 80 minutes. Opens Friday at the Music Box Theatre and on demand. Kris Rey will do Q&A’s at screenings of the film at 8:20 and 10:30 p.m. Wednesday at the ChiTown Movies drive-in, 2343 S. Throop Street. Tickets: musicboxtheatre.com
Jacobs’ Kate has recently published her first novel, titled “Seasons Passed” —but as she learns in a phone call with a couple of chipper publicists who sound amazingly upbeat as they deliver terrible news, initial sales have been so disappointing they’ve canceled her promotional book tour. (Based on the excerpts we hear, it’s a miracle the novel got published, let alone garnered enough early buzz to warrant a book tour.) If that’s not bad enough, Kate opens a box filled with invitations to her wedding — a wedding that ain’t happening because her fiancé dumped her and apparently has moved on to new romantic ground rather quickly. Oh, and three of Kate’s closest friends are pregnant at the same time, which makes her feel like she’s behind EVERYONE in terms of grown-up life progress.
Jemaine Clement exudes just the right combination of professorial authority and not-so-subtle sleaziness as David, who was Kate’s mentor in college and is still teaching at her alma mater in downstate Carbondale. David invites Kate to give a reading of her novel, and she jumps at the chance to get out of Chicago, reconnect with her past and see David for the first time in 15 years.
A fantastically funny Rammel Chan plays the super-chipper student guide Elliot, who picks up Kate at the train station and takes her to the bed & breakfast where she’ll be staying — which is right across the street from her old college house. Kate quickly falls into a rebel daughter/disapproving mother dynamic with the no-nonsense Mrs. Beeter (Cindy Gold, brilliant), who runs the B&B, and she finds herself hanging out at the old house with the current occupants, are bemused by the presence of this 35-year-old woman but are collectively a kind and understanding bunch who recognize Kate is a mess and make her part of their group. (The attention to detail is pitch-perfect, from the roommate who spoons a bowl of cereal while ambling about the house to the empty beer bottles perched on the ledge on the front porch, to the manner in which these college kids interact with each other.)
Some later developments, most notably a mission to reveal David for the cad he truly is, are broader in tone and not as involving as the buildup. But there’s a wonderfully weird development regarding the mother of one of the roommates, and a possible fling for Kate that comes across as sweet when it could be off-putting. Throughout, the always likable Gillian Jacobs creates a memorable portrayal of a woman who’s a mess but still rather wonderful.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-28--Menu Planner: Family always at the table on time for beef stuffed peppers

1 ( 14 1/2-ounce ) can diced tomatoes with green peppers and onions , drained 1 tablespoon minced parsley , plus more for garnish Cut tops from peppers ( reserve ) ; carefully remove seeds and membranes from peppers and discard .
Arrange peppers , cut side down , in a large baking dish .
Place tops in dish .
Microwave on high 1 to 1 1/2 minutes per pepper ; drain , turn right side up in dish and set aside .
Heat oven to 450 degrees .
Meanwhile , heat a large nonstick skillet on medium until hot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ garlic ; cook 3 to 4 minutes , breaking beef apart ; stir occasionally .
Stir in tomatoes , rice , tomato paste , parsley , salt and black pepper ; cook 3 to 4 minutes or until heated through , stirring occasionally .
Divide mixture evenly among peppers ; replace tops .
Bake 17 to 22 minutes or until thermometer inserted into center of beef mixture reaches 160 degrees .
Garnish with additional parsley .
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a Dutch oven on medium .
Add 1 finely chopped onion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Add 3 cloves minced garlic ; cook 1 minute .
Stir in 2 tablespoons chili powder , 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder and 3/4 teaspoon cumin .
Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste .
Add 3 1/2 cups unsalted vegetable broth , 8 ounces frozen white-kernel corn and 1 ( 8-ounce ) can no-salt-added tomato sauce .
Stir in 4 ( 15-ounce ) cans rinsed reduced-sodium pinto beans .
Cover ; bring to a boil .
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer about 30 minutes .
Stir in a handful of chopped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sharp cheddar cheese , finely chopped red onion , reduced-fat sour cream and corn chips for garnish .
Heat oven to 400 degrees .
Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray .
On a lightly floured surface , roll 16 ounces of refrigerated pizza dough to form a 9-by-14-inch rectangle ( 1/4-inch thick ) .
Transfer to baking sheet .
Spread 1/2 cup pizza sauce , 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese , 1 cup cooked shredded carrots and 1 ( 6-ounce ) can drained chicken breast over half the dough .
Fold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Seal edges by pressing with the tines of a fork .
Prick top with fork and coat with cooking spray .
Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until crust is lightly browned .
Cool 5 minutes , then cut and serve .
Cooking time : less than 10 minutes , plus couscous Combine salt , pepper , cumin and chili powder ; rub mixture over all surfaces of medallions .
Heat broiler .
Broil 6 to 8 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees ; turn once .
Meanwhile , in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and butter to a boil ; stir in couscous .
Cover , remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes .
Serve medallions with couscous and chutney .
Heat oven to 300 degrees .
In an electric mixer , beat butter on medium 1 to 7 minutes ( or until creamy and lighter-yellow color ) .
Gradually add sugar , beating on medium , until a fluffy white .
( Times vary according to power of mixer . )
Add eggs , 1 at a time , beating just until yolk disappears .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with milk ; begin and end with flour .
Beat at low speed until just blended after each addition .
( Batter should be smooth , and flour should be well-incorporated .
If batter has lumps , stir gently with a rubber spatula . )
Stir in almond extract and vanilla extract .
Pour batter into a greased and floured 10-inch tube pan .
( To grease pan : Use butter or vegetable shortening , greasing every part of pan .
Sprinkle with a light coating of flour over greased surface . )
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ until a long wooden pick inserted in center of cake comes out clean .
Cool in pan on wire rack 10 to 15 minutes .
Remove from pan ; cool completely on wire rack .

Beef stuffed peppers
Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: about 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS
4 medium red, green, yellow or orange bell peppers
1 pound (93% lean) ground beef
1/2 cup minced onion
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green peppers and onions, drained
1/2 cup cooked brown or white rice
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon minced parsley, plus more for garnish
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cut tops from peppers (reserve); carefully remove seeds and membranes from peppers and discard. Arrange peppers, cut side down, in a large baking dish. Place tops in dish. Microwave on high 1 to 1 1/2 minutes per pepper; drain, turn right side up in dish and set aside. Heat oven to 450 degrees. Meanwhile, heat a large nonstick skillet on medium until hot. Add ground beef, onion and garlic; cook 3 to 4 minutes, breaking beef apart; stir occasionally. Stir in tomatoes, rice, tomato paste, parsley, salt and black pepper; cook 3 to 4 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Divide mixture evenly among peppers; replace tops. Bake 17 to 22 minutes or until thermometer inserted into center of beef mixture reaches 160 degrees. Garnish with additional parsley.
Per serving: 374 calories, 27 grams protein, 13 grams fat (31% calories from fat), 4.3 grams saturated fat, 37 grams carbohydrate, 65 milligrams cholesterol, 698 milligrams sodium, 7 grams fiber.
Carb count: 2.5.
Pinto bean chili
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a Dutch oven on medium. Add 1 finely chopped onion; cook 7 minutes or until softened. Add 3 cloves minced garlic; cook 1 minute. Stir in 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder and 3/4 teaspoon cumin. Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste. Add 3 1/2 cups unsalted vegetable broth, 8 ounces frozen white-kernel corn and 1 (8-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce. Stir in 4 (15-ounce) cans rinsed reduced-sodium pinto beans. Cover; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer about 30 minutes. Stir in a handful of chopped fresh cilantro and serve with grated light sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, reduced-fat sour cream and corn chips for garnish.
Chicken calzones
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. On a lightly floured surface, roll 16 ounces of refrigerated pizza dough to form a 9-by-14-inch rectangle (1/4-inch thick). Transfer to baking sheet. Spread 1/2 cup pizza sauce, 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, 1 cup cooked shredded carrots and 1 (6-ounce) can drained chicken breast over half the dough. Fold other half of dough over filling. Seal edges by pressing with the tines of a fork. Prick top with fork and coat with cooking spray. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until crust is lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes, then cut and serve.
Pork medallions with cinnamon couscous and mango chutney
Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: less than 10 minutes, plus couscous
INGREDIENTS
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1 1/4 teaspoons pepper
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
1-pound pork tenderloin, well-trimmed and cut into 3/4-inch-thick medallions
2 1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon butter
1 1/2 cups couscous
Mango or peach chutney for garnish
Combine salt, pepper, cumin and chili powder; rub mixture over all surfaces of medallions. Heat broiler. Broil 6 to 8 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees; turn once. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, bring water, cinnamon and butter to a boil; stir in couscous. Cover, remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes. Serve medallions with couscous and chutney.
Per serving: 380 calories, 30 grams protein, 5 grams fat (11% calories from fat), 1.7 grams saturated fat, 52 grams carbohydrate, 62 milligrams cholesterol, 210 milligrams sodium, 4 grams fiber.
Carb count: 3.5.
Million-dollar pound cake
Makes 16 slices
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 40 minutes; cooling time: 10 to 15 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 pound butter, softened
3 cups sugar
6 eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Heat oven to 300 degrees. In an electric mixer, beat butter on medium 1 to 7 minutes (or until creamy and lighter-yellow color). Gradually add sugar, beating on medium, until a fluffy white. (Times vary according to power of mixer.) Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until yolk disappears. Add flour to creamed mixture, alternating with milk; begin and end with flour. Beat at low speed until just blended after each addition. (Batter should be smooth, and flour should be well-incorporated. If batter has lumps, stir gently with a rubber spatula.) Stir in almond extract and vanilla extract. Pour batter into a greased and floured 10-inch tube pan. (To grease pan: Use butter or vegetable shortening, greasing every part of pan. Sprinkle with a light coating of flour over greased surface.) Bake 1 hour and 40 minutes or until a long wooden pick inserted in center of cake comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from pan; cool completely on wire rack.
Per slice: 499 calories, 6 grams protein, 26 grams fat (45% calories from fat), 15.4 grams saturated fat, 62 grams carbohydrate, 132 milligrams cholesterol, 235 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber.
Carb count: 4.


chicagosun-times--2020-07-28--Victims robbed leaving gas station in Gage Park, West Lawn

At least three people were robbed as they were leaving a gas station in July in Gage Park and West @ @ @ @ @ .
In each incident victims were approached as they are leaving a gas station by @ @ @ @ @ demand their property , according to a community alert from Chicago police .
• About @ @ @ @ @ the 2700 block of West 59th Street ; • About 8 p.m. July 7 in @ @ @ @ @ Pulaski Road ; and • About 8:30 p.m. July 7 in the 3900 block of @ @ @ @ @ with information is asked to contact Area One detectives at 312-747-8380 .

At least three people were robbed as they were leaving a gas station in July in Gage Park and West Lawn on the Southwest Side.
In each incident victims were approached as they are leaving a gas station by at least two men who demand their property, according to a community alert from Chicago police.
The robberies happened:
About 3:30 a.m. July 5 in the 2700 block of West 59th Street;
About 8 p.m. July 7 in the 6700 block of South Pulaski Road; and
About 8:30 p.m. July 7 in the 3900 block of West 63rd Street.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Area One detectives at 312-747-8380.