chicagosuntimes--2020-01-24--When a bullet came through our window, I had to find a way to escape

This week ’ s column is the fourth in a series of excerpts from the author ’ s memoir , “ True Vine : A Young Black Man ’ s Journey of Faith , Hope & Clarity ” After being summoned to his office at church that night , Grandpa was not gone for long , but when he reemerged , the serious look in his eyes and the taut lines in his forehead and jaws said that something was wrong .
He stood in the foyer just outside his office , staring toward the pulpit .
He beckoned with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wondering whom he was calling until he pointed directly at me .
“ Me ?
” I asked , touching a finger to my chest , my lips moving but making no sound .
The boys had come to church with me that night .
But ( my wife ) , still pregnant and nearly due , wasn ’ t feeling well and had stayed home .
I sprang from my chair and hurried from the pulpit through the sanctuary… “ Come on , John .
I just want you to take a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rounded the corner at 18th Street and Komensky Avenue and saw the fleet of blue-and-white police cars parked outside my apartment building .
Grandpa pulled to the curb and I jumped out of the car before it was even parked .
I ran into the building and dashed up the stairs as fast as I could .
I ran in , my heart and mind racing .
“ What…where ’ s…where ’ s my wife ?
Where ’ s my wife ?
” I asked , rushing toward the living room , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I quickly scanned the room and saw ( my wife ) sitting on the couch .
She looked shaken .
I rushed over .
“ What happened ?
” I asked , shaken and angry .
( My wife ) seemed too shaken to speak .
“ Sir , someone shot through your window , ” a police officer said .
“ The bullet crashed through the glass and lodged in the floor here , ” he said , pointing .
“ A bullet… What ?
Awww man , you got to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to compose myself .
“ Where did it come from ?
” The cops showed me the hole in the living room window .
It was about the size of a baseball .
Then they showed me the round that had torn through it… My eyes fell on the spot where the bullet had landed .
And I was even more shaken .
It was in front of the television , the same spot where our boys normally sprawled out on their bellies in the evening before bedtime each night to watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been lying on the couch watching television when she heard the glass breaking , and then something hit the floor… I knew we would never find out where the shot came from .
But that didn ’ t matter .
What really mattered was that one of us could easily have been killed but we had all been spared .
No matter how troubling , I could not allow myself to dwell on it , if I was to maintain some degree of sanity .
You could never afford to take it all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the madness , at least not while you lived in it , or it could incapacitate you .
You saw it , but you didn ’ t .
You heard it , but you didn ’ t .
You convinced yourself that things were not so bad .
That this was how life was .
You counted your blessings .
You moved on .
I hugged ( my wife ) .
She said she was okay .
The cops finished their report and left .
Then Grandpa and I drove back to church @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept thinking that I had just one more thing to be thankful for — but I was convinced more than ever that I had to find a way to get my family away from here .

This week’s column is the fourth in a series of excerpts from the author’s memoir, “True Vine: A Young Black Man’s Journey of Faith, Hope & Clarity”
After being summoned to his office at church that night, Grandpa was not gone for long, but when he reemerged, the serious look in his eyes and the taut lines in his forehead and jaws said that something was wrong.
He stood in the foyer just outside his office, staring toward the pulpit. He beckoned with his hand. I looked around, wondering whom he was calling until he pointed directly at me.
“Me?” I asked, touching a finger to my chest, my lips moving but making no sound.
Grandpa nodded.
“What for,” I wondered. “Was something wrong at home?”
Columnists bug Columnists In-depth political coverage, sports analysis, entertainment reviews and cultural commentary.
The boys had come to church with me that night. But (my wife), still pregnant and nearly due, wasn’t feeling well and had stayed home. I sprang from my chair and hurried from the pulpit through the sanctuary…
“Come on, John. I just want you to take a ride with me.”
…Grandpa and I rounded the corner at 18th Street and Komensky Avenue and saw the fleet of blue-and-white police cars parked outside my apartment building.
“Oh my God!” I gasped. “What happened? What’s going on?”
Grandpa pulled to the curb and I jumped out of the car before it was even parked. I ran into the building and dashed up the stairs as fast as I could. I ran in, my heart and mind racing.
“What…where’s…where’s my wife? Where’s my wife?” I asked, rushing toward the living room, where a swarm of police officers stood. I quickly scanned the room and saw (my wife) sitting on the couch. She looked shaken. I rushed over.
“She’s all right,” a police officer said.
“What happened?” I asked, shaken and angry. (My wife) seemed too shaken to speak.
“Sir, someone shot through your window,” a police officer said. “The bullet crashed through the glass and lodged in the floor here,” he said, pointing.
“A bullet… What? Awww man, you got to be kidding me,” I said, trying to compose myself. “Where did it come from?”
The cops showed me the hole in the living room window. It was about the size of a baseball. Then they showed me the round that had torn through it…
My eyes fell on the spot where the bullet had landed. And I was even more shaken. It was in front of the television, the same spot where our boys normally sprawled out on their bellies in the evening before bedtime each night to watch TV.
(My wife) had been lying on the couch watching television when she heard the glass breaking, and then something hit the floor…
I knew we would never find out where the shot came from. But that didn’t matter. What really mattered was that one of us could easily have been killed but we had all been spared.
No matter how troubling, I could not allow myself to dwell on it, if I was to maintain some degree of sanity. You could never afford to take it all in. You never fully ingested all the madness, at least not while you lived in it, or it could incapacitate you.
You saw it, but you didn’t. You heard it, but you didn’t. You convinced yourself that things were not so bad. That this was how life was. You counted your blessings. You moved on.
I hugged (my wife). She said she was okay. The cops finished their report and left. Then Grandpa and I drove back to church.
All the way back, I kept thinking that I had just one more thing to be thankful for — but I was convinced more than ever that I had to find a way to get my family away from here.
Email John Fountain at Author@johnwfountain.com
Send letters to letters@suntimes.com


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Dear Abby: I wasn’t hired to make coffee and run errands, but they’re making me do it

DEAR ABBY : I recently landed a new job and was excited about doing work that would be directly in line with my education and background .
I left a job of more than a decade to pursue this field .
My problem is , I ’ m being asked to carry luggage , make coffee , run errands , etc .
This was not in my job description , nor was it what I was hired for .
Abby , I have worked many intern positions .
I do not believe I am too good for any job , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have abilities that could contribute greatly to this company .
What they have me doing now is not beneficial for me or them .
If you believe I should say something , what should it be ?
I ’ m afraid they can easily find a substitute who may perform these tasks , as they aren ’ t every day , but it ’ s often enough to make me uncomfortable .
It ’ s a small company , and my pay is good , so I don ’ t want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
— SCARED TO SPEAK UP DEAR SCARED : I see nothing wrong with having a discussion with your employer .
However , because you are so new to the job , it should be done delicately .
Tell the person you feel you could be contributing more to the company than you are currently doing , but do not complain about the menial tasks .
It often falls to the newest member of the team to do these things , and the last thing you want is to be perceived as someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In time you will see if this job is the right fit for you .
DEAR ABBY : My dad died of cancer a couple of months ago .
While we were a bit estranged , I did love him , and his loss was painful .
Despite this , I have accepted things and moved on .
The issue is that anytime I talk to my friends about it , they assume I ’ m really in shock .
My friends are older , so I suspect they think it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it ’ s frustrating that they disregard my personal growth and the way I ’ ve dealt with his death .
I realize I have moved on fairly quickly , but the way I see it , death is a part of life , and what ’ s done is done .
How can I explain to them that while I ’ m sad , I have accepted what happened without sounding like I didn ’ t care about my dad ?
— MOVED ON IN THE WEST DEAR MOVED ON : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your relationship with your father may not have been like the ones they had with their fathers .
That you were “ a bit estranged ” may have made his death less traumatic than if he had been a major part of your life .
It should not be necessary to put on a display of sackcloth and ashes .
Everyone grieves differently , so remind them of that .
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO MY ASIAN READERS WHO CELEBRATE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR : The Year of the Rat begins today .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all who celebrate this holiday .
People born in the Year of the Rat are said to be instinctive , acute and alert , which makes them exceptional in business .
They are sophisticated and popular in social interaction .
But they can sometimes be stubborn and picky .
Notable individuals born in the Year of the Rat include not only George Washington , Wolfgang Mozart , William Shakespeare and Charlotte Bronte , but also Gwyneth Paltrow , Ben Affleck , Eminem , Prince Charles of Britain and his son Prince Harry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
Good advice for everyone — teens to seniors — is in “ The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It.
” To order , send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby , Anger Booklet , P.O @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and handling are included in the price . )

DEAR ABBY: I recently landed a new job and was excited about doing work that would be directly in line with my education and background. I left a job of more than a decade to pursue this field. My problem is, I’m being asked to carry luggage, make coffee, run errands, etc. This was not in my job description, nor was it what I was hired for.
Abby, I have worked many intern positions. I do not believe I am too good for any job, but I have worked my way up and have abilities that could contribute greatly to this company. What they have me doing now is not beneficial for me or them.
If you believe I should say something, what should it be? I’m afraid they can easily find a substitute who may perform these tasks, as they aren’t every day, but it’s often enough to make me uncomfortable. It’s a small company, and my pay is good, so I don’t want to leave. Please advise me, Abby. — SCARED TO SPEAK UP
DEAR SCARED: I see nothing wrong with having a discussion with your employer. However, because you are so new to the job, it should be done delicately. Tell the person you feel you could be contributing more to the company than you are currently doing, but do not complain about the menial tasks. It often falls to the newest member of the team to do these things, and the last thing you want is to be perceived as someone who is not a team player. In time you will see if this job is the right fit for you.
DEAR ABBY: My dad died of cancer a couple of months ago. While we were a bit estranged, I did love him, and his loss was painful. Despite this, I have accepted things and moved on.
The issue is that anytime I talk to my friends about it, they assume I’m really in shock. My friends are older, so I suspect they think it’s because I’m only 22, but it’s frustrating that they disregard my personal growth and the way I’ve dealt with his death.
I realize I have moved on fairly quickly, but the way I see it, death is a part of life, and what’s done is done. How can I explain to them that while I’m sad, I have accepted what happened without sounding like I didn’t care about my dad? — MOVED ON IN THE WEST
DEAR MOVED ON: Point out to your well-meaning friends that your relationship with your father may not have been like the ones they had with their fathers. That you were “a bit estranged” may have made his death less traumatic than if he had been a major part of your life. It should not be necessary to put on a display of sackcloth and ashes. Everyone grieves differently, so remind them of that.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO MY ASIAN READERS WHO CELEBRATE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR: The Year of the Rat begins today. I wish a happy, healthy new year to all who celebrate this holiday. People born in the Year of the Rat are said to be instinctive, acute and alert, which makes them exceptional in business. They are sophisticated and popular in social interaction. But they can sometimes be stubborn and picky. Notable individuals born in the Year of the Rat include not only George Washington, Wolfgang Mozart, William Shakespeare and Charlotte Bronte, but also Gwyneth Paltrow, Ben Affleck, Eminem, Prince Charles of Britain and his son Prince Harry.
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.
Good advice for everyone — teens to seniors — is in “The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It.” To order, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--In race for Cook County circuit court clerk, black clergy are mobilizing for Richard Boykin

The shofar blew as several dozen ministers crowded into Quinn Chapel AME Church , the Bronzeville church and home of the largest black congregation in Chicago .
The ram ’ s horn , a traditional Jewish instrument that signals victory and liberation , announced the clergy assembled Thursday at the African Methodist Episcopal church .
“ This group today , we ’ re showing our independence from the Democratic Party , ” exhorted the Rev .
Ira Acree of the Greater St. John Bible Church .
Applause and “ Amens.
” They gathered on a snowy morning to defy the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court .
For eons , black voters have supported candidates dictated by their party , instead of their hearts , dutifully electing stars and scoundrels at the party ’ s behest .
The clerk ’ s office , currently occupied by Dorothy Brown , is decidedly a “ down-ballot ” contest .
In 2000 , Brown bucked the party and won , with a heavy lift from African American church leaders .
Now Brown is retiring in the wake of federal investigations .
Boykin and three others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meister , a longtime Chicago lawyer and LGBTQ activist , challenged and lost to Brown in 2016 .
State Sen. Iris Martinez , who has represented the Northwest Side since 2003 , is an assistant majority leader and the first Latina elected to the Illinois Senate .
In August , Michael M. Cabonargi , a longtime commissioner on the Cook County Board of Review , won the party bosses ’ endorsement .
Typically , that would ensure him front-runner status .
The bishops , pastors , and preachers at Quinn Chapel prayed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community , they expect African-Americans just to line up , ” Acree said .
“ It ’ s all across the country with the party , no matter what.
” But “ We ’ re saying , in this race , we ’ re going to make that choice.
” Cabonargi , who is white , was slated at the urging of Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle , the first African American and first woman to chair the Cook County Democratic Party .
Boykin is not on Preckwinkle ’ s warm and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and persistent critic of the county soda tax she championed , then lost .
When Boykin ran for reelection last year , it was payback time .
Preckwinkle pushed Chicago Teachers Union organizer Brandon Johnson for Boykin ’ s county board seat .
Boykin lost .
“ I ’ ve paid a heavy political price for the level of compassion and commitment that I ’ ve demonstrated for the people , ” Boykin said at the press conference .
The ministers didn ’ t want to talk about the soda tax , perhaps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ county voters .
They touted Boykin , a lawyer who grew up poor in Englewood and is now a practicing attorney .
The clergy cite his independence and close community ties .
And he ’ s an ordained minister , to boot .
Boykin previously served as chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Danny Davis , who has also endorsed him in the race .
“ I will always put people over politics , ” Boykin said .
The ministers plan to blow their own horn and “ organize a massive ‘ souls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Rev .
Leslie Saunders , pastor of Hope Presbyterian Church of Chicago .
“ We ’ re going to be mobilizing , block by block .
We ’ re going to have each pastor , really become like a precinct captain .
They ’ re going to be organizing people in and around their churches … .
” The black preacher can be a potent persuader .
But this is just one race .
What else you got ?

The shofar blew as several dozen ministers crowded into Quinn Chapel AME Church, the Bronzeville church and home of the largest black congregation in Chicago.
The ram’s horn, a traditional Jewish instrument that signals victory and liberation, announced the clergy assembled Thursday at the African Methodist Episcopal church.
“This group today, we’re showing our independence from the Democratic Party,” exhorted the Rev. Ira Acree of the Greater St. John Bible Church. Applause and “Amens.”
It’s time.
They gathered on a snowy morning to defy the Democratic Party and endorse Richard Boykin for Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court.
Columnists bug Columnists In-depth political coverage, sports analysis, entertainment reviews and cultural commentary.
For eons, black voters have supported candidates dictated by their party instead of their hearts, dutifully electing stars and scoundrels at the party’s behest.
The clerk’s office, currently occupied by Dorothy Brown, is decidedly a “down-ballot” contest. In 2000, Brown bucked the party and won, with a heavy lift from African American church leaders.
Now Brown is retiring in the wake of federal investigations. Boykin and three others are vying to replace her:
Jacob Meister, a longtime Chicago lawyer and LGBTQ activist, challenged and lost to Brown in 2016.
State Sen. Iris Martinez, who has represented the Northwest Side since 2003, is an assistant majority leader and the first Latina elected to the Illinois Senate.
In August, Michael M. Cabonargi, a longtime commissioner on the Cook County Board of Review, won the party bosses’ endorsement. Typically, that would ensure him front-runner status.
The bishops, pastors, and preachers at Quinn Chapel prayed on that one.
“Unfortunately in our community, they expect African Americans just to line up,” Acree said. “It’s all across the country with the party, no matter what.”
But “We’re saying, in this race, we’re going to make that choice.”
Cabonargi, who is white, was slated at the urging of Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, the first African American and first woman to chair the Cook County Democratic Party.
Boykin is not on Preckwinkle’s warm and fuzzy list. He was a loud and persistent critic of the county soda tax she championed, then lost.
When Boykin ran for reelection last year, it was payback time. Preckwinkle pushed Chicago Teachers Union organizer Brandon Johnson for Boykin’s county board seat. Boykin lost.
“I’ve paid a heavy political price for the level of compassion and commitment that I’ve demonstrated for the people,” Boykin said at the press conference.
The ministers didn’t want to talk about the soda tax, perhaps the most unpopular tax ever bestowed on county voters.
They touted Boykin, a lawyer who grew up poor in Englewood and is now a practicing attorney. The clergy cite his independence and close community ties. And he’s an ordained minister, to boot.
Boykin previously served as chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Danny Davis, who has also endorsed him in the race.
“I will always put people over politics,” Boykin said.
The ministers plan to blow their own horn and “organize a massive ‘souls to the polls’ campaign,” said Rev. Leslie Saunders, pastor of Hope Presbyterian Church of Chicago.
“We’re going to be mobilizing, block by block. We’re going to have each pastor, really become like a precinct captain. They’re going to be organizing people in and around their churches ...”
The black preacher can be a potent persuader.
But this is just one race. What else you got?
Follow Laura S. Washington on Twitter @MediaDervish
Send letters to letters@suntimes.com


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--2020 NFL free agents: Five big-name Bears who could be gone this offseason

Change is inevitable in the NFL , even when everything is going great .
For the Bears , after a tremendously disappointing 8-8 season , it is imperative .
They can ’ t possibly go into next season with the same roster and expect a different outcome , so moves are coming .
That likely means some prominent players are on their way out , even if they ’ ve been good .
Analysts at OverTheCap have them at $ 6 million in salary cap space for 2020 , which isn ’ t enough to address their issues .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make or break his tenure with the Bears , general manager Ryan Pace might have to sacrifice at positions of strength and reallocate that money to bolster weak spots .
With that in mind , here are five big names that could be leaving the Bears this offseason : S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix Clinton-Dix was upfront with the Bears about his intentions all along : He signed a one-year deal with an eye on thriving in a good defense and reestablishing his market value .
He believes he accomplished that , and at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take another budget-friendly deal unless he ’ s low on options .
He loves playing with Eddie Jackson , but he probably loves multi-year contracts more .
Clinton-Dix played 99 percent of the Bears ’ defensive snaps and finished with 78 tackles , five pass breakups , an interception and two fumble recoveries .
Losing Clinton-Dix will likely cost the Bears money rather than save it , since his salary was so favorable at $ 3.5 million .
The cheap move would be to re-sign Deon Bush , but there are several veteran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Bears might need another one-year rental .
WR Taylor Gabriel It would have been interesting to see what Gabriel did if he had stayed healthy this season , but he made it through just nine games because of two concussions and had 29 catches , 253 yards and four touchdowns .
A huge chunk of that production came in the game against the Redskins .
Gabriel can still help the Bears , but they ’ d like to see Anthony Miller take on a bigger role .
And dropping Gabriel is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Instead of his $ 6.5 million salary next season and $ 7.5 million in 2021 , they can cut him for a dead-cap hit of $ 2 million .
Miller would get a shot at being the No .
2 receiver , and the Bears can either increase Javon Wims ’ opportunity , take a shot with a late-round draft pick or shop for a modest free agent .
OLB Leonard Floyd Rescinding Floyd ’ s 2020 option , which is protected only for injury , would be the easiest money saver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would ask a lot from Pace to part with a player he drafted No .
9 overall in 2016 .
But the Bears are on the hook for $ 13.2 million to keep Floyd , which currently slots him as the third-highest-paid player on the 2020 roster .
Pace didn ’ t sound like someone who would consider moving on from Floyd when his name came up a few weeks ago .
“ We ’ re happy with Leonard , ” Pace said .
“ I know the stats don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of things that I think may be a little bit undervalued .
I think the versatility that he provides , the things he can do in coverage — there aren ’ t a lot of outside linebackers [ with ] the versatility that he provides .
“ Would we like more production from him ?
Yeah .
But there ’ s a lot of things that he does that we like .
As far as his contract , you know we ’ re never going to get into those things , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re glad he ’ s here.
” Again , it is incredibly hard for a general manager to give up on a player he chose in the first round .
What the rest of the world sees , though , is a pass rusher who 18.5 sacks over four years and had a career-low three this season .
With Khalil Mack and Akiem Hicks in the picture , they should be able to find an affordable replacement .
LB Nick Kwiatkoski This one is going to hurt .
Drafting and developing talent is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to foster all that progress only to see a young player leave in free agency .
With Kwiatkoski , it ’ s a case of prioritizing the immediate instead of the long-term .
While the Bears surely want to re-sign a promising 26-year-old , they ’ d be better off trying to reach a short-term deal to keep 29-year-old Danny Trevathan .
Defensively , the Bears already have Mack under contract for $ 129.1 million through 2024 , Jackson for $ 60.7 million through ’ 24 , defensive tackle Eddie Goldman for $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fuller for $ 31.5 million through ’ 21 .
They also must prepare to pay inside linebacker Roquan Smith a massive salary in his 2022 option or sign him to a big extension .
TE Trey Burton It seems unlikely the Bears would want to eat $ 7.5 million in dead salary cap space to cut Burton this year , but they ’ d almost have to if they want to pursue a top tight end in free agency .
Falcons tight end Austin Hooper and the Chargers ’ Hunter Henry are up-and-comers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re likely to command $ 8-11 million annually on four- or five-year deals .
The Bears are almost certain to draft a tight end with one of their second-round picks , but rookies are unpredictable at that position .
Many struggle to acclimate to the size and speed of NFL linebackers and pass rushers in their first season .
Pace has some glaring errors on his record , but it ’ s unfair to include Burton on that list .
He signed Burton to a reasonable four-year , $ 32 million contract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the board in his first season .
There is no way the team could have predicted Burton ’ s injury trouble , and if he comes back healthy next season , there ’ s good cause to believe he can solve their tight end problems .
There ’ s one wildcard here .
If the Bears are able to cut costs elsewhere and if tight end matters as much to them as they say , there ’ s a scenario where they could keep Burton and add a significant pass catcher opposite him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like Hooper on the field at the same time this season and reevaluate a year from now when the cap hit on cutting Burton drops to $ 1.8 million .

Change is inevitable in the NFL, even when everything is going great. For the Bears, after a tremendously disappointing 8-8 season, it is imperative.
They can’t possibly go into next season with the same roster and expect a different outcome, so moves are coming. That likely means some prominent players are on their way out, even if they’ve been good.
Analysts at OverTheCap have them at $6 million in salary cap space for 2020, which isn’t enough to address their issues. As he heads into a season that could make or break his tenure with the Bears, general manager Ryan Pace might have to sacrifice at positions of strength and reallocate that money to bolster weak spots.
With that in mind, here are five big names that could be leaving the Bears this offseason:
S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
Clinton-Dix was upfront with the Bears about his intentions all along: He signed a one-year deal with an eye on thriving in a good defense and reestablishing his market value. He believes he accomplished that, and at 27, he’s unlikely to take another budget-friendly deal unless he’s low on options. He loves playing with Eddie Jackson, but he probably loves multi-year contracts more.
Clinton-Dix played 99 percent of the Bears’ defensive snaps and finished with 78 tackles, five pass breakups, an interception and two fumble recoveries.
Losing Clinton-Dix will likely cost the Bears money rather than save it, since his salary was so favorable at $3.5 million. The cheap move would be to re-sign Deon Bush, but there are several veteran safeties available in free agency as well. The Bears might need another one-year rental.
WR Taylor Gabriel
It would have been interesting to see what Gabriel did if he had stayed healthy this season, but he made it through just nine games because of two concussions and had 29 catches, 253 yards and four touchdowns. A huge chunk of that production came in the game against the Redskins.
Gabriel can still help the Bears, but they’d like to see Anthony Miller take on a bigger role. And dropping Gabriel is one of their most obvious cost-cutting options. Instead of his $6.5 million salary next season and $7.5 million in 2021, they can cut him for a dead-cap hit of $2 million.
Miller would get a shot at being the No. 2 receiver, and the Bears can either increase Javon Wims’ opportunity, take a shot with a late-round draft pick or shop for a modest free agent.
OLB Leonard Floyd
Rescinding Floyd’s 2020 option, which is protected only for injury, would be the easiest money saver for the Bears on paper, but it would ask a lot from Pace to part with a player he drafted No. 9 overall in 2016. But the Bears are on the hook for $13.2 million to keep Floyd, which currently slots him as the third-highest-paid player on the 2020 roster.
Pace didn’t sound like someone who would consider moving on from Floyd when his name came up a few weeks ago.
“We’re happy with Leonard,” Pace said. “I know the stats don’t always say that, but Leonard does a lot of things that I think may be a little bit undervalued. I think the versatility that he provides, the things he can do in coverage — there aren’t a lot of outside linebackers [with] the versatility that he provides.
“Would we like more production from him? Yeah. But there’s a lot of things that he does that we like. As far as his contract, you know we’re never going to get into those things, but we like Leonard. We’re glad he’s here.”
Again, it is incredibly hard for a general manager to give up on a player he chose in the first round.
What the rest of the world sees, though, is a pass rusher who 18.5 sacks over four years and had a career-low three this season. With Khalil Mack and Akiem Hicks in the picture, they should be able to find an affordable replacement.
LB Nick Kwiatkoski
This one is going to hurt.
Drafting and developing talent is difficult, and it’s brutal to foster all that progress only to see a young player leave in free agency. With Kwiatkoski, it’s a case of prioritizing the immediate instead of the long-term. While the Bears surely want to re-sign a promising 26-year-old, they’d be better off trying to reach a short-term deal to keep 29-year-old Danny Trevathan.
Defensively, the Bears already have Mack under contract for $129.1 million through 2024, Jackson for $60.7 million through ’24, defensive tackle Eddie Goldman for $41.5 through ’22 and cornerback Kyle Fuller for $31.5 million through ’21. They also must prepare to pay inside linebacker Roquan Smith a massive salary in his 2022 option or sign him to a big extension.
TE Trey Burton
It seems unlikely the Bears would want to eat $7.5 million in dead salary cap space to cut Burton this year, but they’d almost have to if they want to pursue a top tight end in free agency. Falcons tight end Austin Hooper and the Chargers’ Hunter Henry are up-and-comers who will be available, and they’re likely to command $8-11 million annually on four- or five-year deals.
The Bears are almost certain to draft a tight end with one of their second-round picks, but rookies are unpredictable at that position. Many struggle to acclimate to the size and speed of NFL linebackers and pass rushers in their first season.
Pace has some glaring errors on his record, but it’s unfair to include Burton on that list. He signed Burton to a reasonable four-year, $32 million contract, and he set career highs across the board in his first season. There is no way the team could have predicted Burton’s injury trouble, and if he comes back healthy next season, there’s good cause to believe he can solve their tight end problems.
There’s one wildcard here. If the Bears are able to cut costs elsewhere and if tight end matters as much to them as they say, there’s a scenario where they could keep Burton and add a significant pass catcher opposite him. They could put him and someone like Hooper on the field at the same time this season and reevaluate a year from now when the cap hit on cutting Burton drops to $1.8 million.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Before Pro Bowl with no kickoffs, Cordarrelle Patterson says specialists get no respect

ORLANDO , Fla. — The Bears ’ Cordarrelle Patterson was voted into the Pro Bowl as a special teamer , though the Saints ’ Deonte Harris is the NFC ’ s return specialist .
Neither will return kicks during Sunday ’ s Pro Bowl , though .
The NFL eliminated kickoffs in the all-star game six years ago .
This week , the league presented an alternative to onside kicks : the team that scores can give their opponent the ball at the 25 or run a fourth-and-15 play from their own 25 — and keep the ball if they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but has taken practice snaps at receiver .
“ I just go out there and go fit in , man , ” he said this week .
“ That ’ s the thing , man — us specialists , we ’ re trying to change the game for a lot of us .
We don ’ t get the recognition that we should .
Special teams , that ’ s a big , big , big part of football .
We change the field position.
” Does he feel like it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s always a new rule , ” he said .
“ They ’ re trying to eliminate us , but we just have to keep showing up every Sunday , Monday and Thursday .
And show them what we ’ re capable of .
”

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Bears’ Cordarrelle Patterson was voted into the Pro Bowl as a special-teamer, though the Saints’ Deonte Harris is the NFC’s return specialist.
Neither will return kicks Sunday during the game, though. The NFL eliminated kickoffs in the Pro Bowl six years ago. This week, the league presented an alternative to onside kicks: The team that scores can give its opponent the ball at the 25 or run a fourth-and-15 play from its 25 — and keep the ball if it converts.
Patterson still will cover punts but has taken practice snaps at receiver.
“I just go out there and go fit in, man,” he said this week. “That’s the thing, man — us specialists, we’re trying to change the game for a lot of us. We don’t get the recognition that we should. Special teams, that’s a big, big, big part of football. We change the field position.”
Does he feel like it’s going away?
“There’s always a new rule,” he said. “They’re trying to eliminate us, but we just have to keep showing up every Sunday, Monday and Thursday. And show them what we’re capable of.”


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--‘Endangered’ missing man last seen in Woodlawn

Police are looking for a man who was last seen in Woodlawn on the South Side .
Charles Almond , @ @ @ @ @ Friday near the 6100 block of South Evans Avenue , Chicago police said .
He @ @ @ @ @ , a red and blue flannel shirt and gray jeans .
He wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ confused .
He frequents the areas near the 6100 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue @ @ @ @ @ Street and Kedzie Avenue , police said .
Almond is 5-foot-7 , 130 pounds and @ @ @ @ @ hair , police said .
Anyone with information about him is asked to contact Area @ @ @ @ @

Police are looking for a man who was last seen in Woodlawn on the South Side.
Charles Almond, 82, was last seen Friday near the 6100 block of South Evans Avenue, Chicago police said. He was wearing a blue skullcap, a red and blue flannel shirt and gray jeans. He wasn’t wearing coat and may be confused.
He frequents the areas near the 6100 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue and the intersection of Harrison Street and Kedzie Avenue, police said.
Almond is 5-foot-7, 130 pounds and has brown eyes and gray hair, police said.
Anyone with information about him is asked to contact Area Central detectives at 312-747-8380.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Hit-and-run driver flees after vehicle strikes Gresham storefront

A driver ran away after a vehicle struck and damaged a store Friday in Gresham on the South Side .
@ @ @ @ @ in a storefront about 10:10 p.m. in the 7900 block of South Ashland Avenue , @ @ @ @ @ one was hurt , and no one is in custody , police said .
The @ @ @ @ @ a hit-and-run .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides @

A driver ran away after a vehicle struck and damaged a store Friday in Gresham on the South Side.
Officers found the unoccupied vehicle in a storefront about 10:10 p.m. in the 7900 block of South Ashland Avenue, Chicago police said.
No one was hurt, and no one is in custody, police said. The crash remains under investigation as a hit-and-run.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Vehicle wanted in CPD robbery investigation found in Calumet Park, 4 in custody

Four people were arrested Friday in south suburban Calumet Park after Chicago police found a vehicle wanted in connection with @ @ @ @ @ vehicle was recovered at 11:36 p.m. in the 12800 block of South Bishop Street , @ @ @ @ @ Four “ persons of interest ” were taken into custody .
Investigators believe the vehicle @ @ @ @ @ , but police could not confirm where or when the robberies in question occurred .
@ @ @ @ @ earlier Friday , police said a group of males driving around in a dark-colored car @ @ @ @ @ seven robberies since Jan. 17 , including one Thursday night during which a man was @ @ @ @ @ Rogers Park .
Police could not confirm whether the recovered vehicle or the arrested individuals @ @ @ @ @ of robberies and said the case remained under investigation Saturday morning .
Read more on @ @ @ @ @ city ’ s homicides .

Four people were arrested Friday in south suburban Calumet Park after Chicago police found a vehicle wanted in connection with a robbery investigation.
The vehicle was recovered at 11:36 p.m. in the 12800 block of South Bishop Street, according to Chicago police. Four “persons of interest” were taken into custody.
Investigators believe the vehicle is connected to multiple robberies, but police could not confirm where or when the robberies in question occurred.
In a community alert issued earlier Friday, police said a group of males driving around in a dark-colored car were wanted in connection with seven robberies since Jan. 17, including one Thursday night during which a man was shot in the chest in Rogers Park.
Police could not confirm whether the recovered vehicle or the arrested individuals were related to that series of robberies and said the case remained under investigation Saturday morning.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Man found guilty in 2017 murder of Hinsdale woman

A south suburban man was convicted Friday of killing a woman inside her Hinsdale home in 2017 .
A jury found 32-year-old Dominic Sanders guilty of murder , home invasion and residential burglary in the death of Andrea Urban , the DuPage County state ’ s attorney ’ s office said .
The verdict came after a nine-day trial and three hours of deliberations .
Officers responded about 3:30 p.m. May 4 , 2017 , to a home in the 700 block of Town Place after dispatchers received calls about an unresponsive woman , the state ’ s attorney ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found 51-year-old Urban lying on the kitchen floor with knife injuries to her head and neck .
Investigators learned Sanders broke into Urban ’ s home , struck her in the head and slashed her throat during an altercation , prosecutors said .
Sanders fled the scene and was arrested May 25 .
“ The jury ’ s finding of guilty is the first step in ensuring that Mr. Sanders will be held accountable for the murder of Andrea Urban , ” DuPage County State ’ s Attorney Robert Berlin said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is scheduled for March 16 , the state ’ s attorney ’ s office said .
He could face life in prison without parole .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

A south suburban man was convicted Friday of killing a woman inside her Hinsdale home in 2017.
A jury found 32-year-old Dominic Sanders guilty of murder, home invasion and residential burglary in the death of Andrea Urban, the DuPage County state’s attorney’s office said. The verdict came after a nine-day trial and three hours of deliberations.
Dominic Sanders DuPage County state’s attorney’s office
Officers responded about 3:30 p.m. May 4, 2017, to a home in the 700 block of Town Place after dispatchers received calls about an unresponsive woman, the state’s attorney’s office said. There, they found 51-year-old Urban lying on the kitchen floor with knife injuries to her head and neck.
Investigators learned Sanders broke into Urban’s home, struck her in the head and slashed her throat during an altercation, prosecutors said. Sanders fled the scene and was arrested May 25.
“The jury’s finding of guilty is the first step in ensuring that Mr. Sanders will be held accountable for the murder of Andrea Urban,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement.
Sanders’ sentencing court date is scheduled for March 16, the state’s attorney’s office said. He could face life in prison without parole.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Carol Stream volleyball coach sentenced to nearly 7 years in prison for child porn

A former Carol Stream volleyball coach was sentenced to nearly seven years in prison for soliciting sexually explicit videos from a 16-year-old boy .
Michael Liedtke , 35 , pleaded guilty last year to one count of receipt of child pornography , according to the U.S. Attorney ’ s Office for the Northern District of Illinois .
He was sentenced to six years and 11 months in prison .
Liedtke , of Streamwood , admitted in a plea agreement that he enticed the boy to create and send two videos for him , prosecutors said .
Authorities found an external @ @ @ @ @ @ @ videos of child pornography in a search of his home last year .
He also admitted to owning and operating a hidden camera in the ceiling of a restroom at the DuPage Training Academy in Carol Stream , prosecutors said .
Recordings captured images of about 400 people , including about 300 children .
“ Mr .
Liedtke ’ s deviant actions demonstrate his complete disregard for others and society as a whole , ” DuPage County State ’ s Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement .
“ While this has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s guilty plea and nearly seven-year sentence underscores the close partnership shared by local and federal authorities working together to keep our communities safe.
” Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

A former Carol Stream volleyball coach was sentenced to nearly seven years in prison for soliciting sexually explicit videos from a 16-year-old boy.
Michael Liedtke, 35, pleaded guilty last year to one count of receipt of child pornography, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois. He was sentenced to six years and 11 months in prison.
Michael Liedtke DuPage County state’s attorney’s office
Liedtke, of Streamwood, admitted in a plea agreement that he enticed the boy to create and send two videos for him, prosecutors said. Authorities found an external hard drive with 29 images and six videos of child pornography in a search of his home last year.
He also admitted to owning and operating a hidden camera in the ceiling of a restroom at the DuPage Training Academy in Carol Stream, prosecutors said. Recordings captured images of about 400 people, including about 300 children.
“Mr. Liedtke’s deviant actions demonstrate his complete disregard for others and society as a whole,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement. “While this has been a very disturbing case, Mr. Liedtke’s guilty plea and nearly seven-year sentence underscores the close partnership shared by local and federal authorities working together to keep our communities safe.”
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--White Sox notebook: Flipping class with Tim Anderson; Grandal, prospects, Astros

The art of the bat flip isn ’ t something you can teach .
“ You just have to do it , ” Tim Anderson said .
But Anderson did his best to share his techniques when he hosted a bat-flipping seminar .
During the event , about 100 kids took turns tossing plastic bats .
Some contestants aggressively chucked them down the third-base line , while others did literal flips after ditching their bats .
Anderson , who caught backlash last season for his bat flips , felt inspired by some of the contestants ’ creativity .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can see it , ” Anderson said .
“ These kids come here and they enjoy those moments and that ’ s fun for them.
” New bullpen right-hander Steve Cishek said the Cubs were certain during a game last season that the Astros were stealing signs from his former team , but didn ’ t have clear evidence .
Cishek said he would prefer facing a batter using performance enhancing drugs than one who knows what pitch he is throwing .
At the Kids Press Conference , catcher Yasmani Grandal said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of baseball , right ?
They found a loophole , it worked out .
But it ’ s a question that will keep coming up.
” Grandal ’ s Dodgers lost to new teammate Dallas Keuchel ’ s Astros in the 2017 World Series .
“ It kind of sucks when you ’ ve got a guy [ Keuchel ] that ’ s here , ” Grandal said .
“ We spoke .
I know exactly how he feels about it .
But hey , it happened and it ’ s in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top 100 prospects list , naming four Sox : Center fielder Luis Robert ( No .
3 ) , first baseman Andrew Vaughn ( 16 ) right-hander Michael Kopech ( 20 ) and second baseman Nick Madrigal ( 40 ) .
Kopech will arrive at spring training with no restrictions after Tommy John Surgery in 2018 and a new man , at least 20 pounds lighter , married to acrtress Vanessa Morgan and no longer using social media .
Robert signed a $ 50 million contract before playing his first major league game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because that shows that the team trusts me and trusts my abilities , ” he said .
“ I think I ’ m ready to show and to prove that I ’ m worth that confidence that they have put in me.
” A year after the Sox took a public relations beating for not signing Manny Machado , one fan at Hahn and Renteria ’ s Q & A fan session thanked Hahn “ for not spending $ 300 million on Bryce Harper or Manny Machado , ” a comment followed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new venue at McCormick Place put the fan convention in one larger space ( more than 100,000 square feet ) than the Chicago Hilton , which spread things out over multiple floors and rooms , but many fans said they felt crowded , and noted less seating , this year .
The Sox might explore using more space at McCormick Place in 2021 .
“ We saw a record SoxFest crowd of more than 10,000 over two days , ” a Sox spokesperson said .
“ We make adjustments each and every year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many fans as possible .
”

The art of the bat flip isn’t something you can teach.
“You just have to do it,” Sox shortstop Tim Anderson said.
But Anderson did his best to share his techniques when he hosted a bat-flipping seminar on the second day of SoxFest.
During the event, about 100 kids took turns tossing plastic bats.
Some contestants aggressively chucked them down the third-base line, while others did literal flips after ditching their bats.
Anderson, who caught backlash last season for his bat flips, felt inspired by some of the contestants’ creativity.
“It’s definitely changing the game, you can see it,” said Anderson, the American League batting champion last season. “These kids come here and they enjoy those moments and that’s fun for them.”
The Astros
New right-handed reliever Steve Cishek said the Cubs were certain that the Astros were stealing their signs during a game last season but didn’t have clear evidence. Cishek said he would prefer facing a batter using performance-enhancing drugs rather than one who knows what pitch is coming.
At a kids’ Q&A session at SoxFest, catcher Yasmani Grandal said “the Astros are like the Patriots of baseball, right? They found a loophole, it worked out. But it’s a question that will keep coming up.”
Grandal’s Dodgers lost to new teammate Dallas Keuchel’s Astros in the 2017 World Series.
“It kind of sucks when you’ve got a guy [Keuchel] that’s here,” Grandal said. “We spoke. I know exactly how he feels about it. But hey, it happened, and it’s in the past.’’
Latest prospect rankings
MLB Pipeline released its updated list of top 100 prospects, which includes four Sox: center fielder Luis Robert (No. 3), first baseman Andrew Vaughn (16) right-hander Michael Kopech (20) and second baseman Nick Madrigal (40).
Kopech will arrive at spring training with no restrictions after Tommy John Surgery in September 2018. Also, he is at least 20 pounds lighter, married to actress Vanessa Morgan and no longer using social media.
Robert signed a $50 million contract before playing his first major-league game.
“That means a lot, because that shows that the team trusts me and trusts my abilities,” he said. “I think I’m ready to show and to prove that I’m worth that confidence that they have put in me.”
Strange but true
A year after the Sox took a public-relations beating for not signing Manny Machado, one fan at the Q&A session with general manager Rick Hahn and manager Rick Renteria thanked Hahn “for not spending $300 million on Bryce Harper or Manny Machado,” a comment followed by a fair amount of applause.
The new venue
The new venue at McCormick Place put the fan convention in one large space (more than 100,000 square feet) rather than the setup at the Chicago Hilton, which spread things out over multiple floors and rooms, but many fans said it felt crowded and noted less seating this year.
The Sox might explore using more space at McCormick Place in 2021.
“We saw a record SoxFest crowd of more than 10,000 over two days,” a Sox spokesperson said. “We make adjustments each and every year to make SoxFest bigger and welcome as many fans as possible.”
Contributing: Daryl Van Schouwen


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--‘Pressure’ was managing teams with limitations, White Sox’ Rick Renteria says

Not all was seashells , balloons and kids asking Eloy Jimenez “ thin crust or deep dish ?
” at SoxFest on Saturday , where the overwhelming mood among players , club officials and fans was optimism about the coming season .
While nonstop talk of the postseason echoed through McCormick Place West , one couldn ’ t blame those who remain pessimistic .
One guarded skeptic at a question answer forum with manager Rick Renteria and general manager Rick Hahn Saturday reminded them of a Sox offseason won with the additions of Jeff Samardzija , Adam LaRoche , Melky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and an ensuing 2015 fail .
Another questioned , within good reason , the Sox ’ questionable defense .
Another suggested to Renteria that he ’ ll be under a closer microscope managing a team built to win rather than one in rebuild mode .
The questions seemed to light a fire under Renteria , who dropped two words not suitable for print in his responses .
“ Pressure ?
” Renteria said .
“ I ’ ve got players .
You want pressure ?
Have a limited bench , have limited pitching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That was what Renteria had during his first three seasons at the helm .
Now that he finally has a roster built to win , he ’ s not backing down from letting everyone know his expectations are lofty , as they should be .
“ Not knocking any team I ’ ve had — those kids gave us everything they had , ” he said .
“ But now , expectations are opportunities .
Expectations don ’ t scare me .
I don ’ t hedge my bet .
If I suck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that ’ s the way it is.
” Renteria hasn ’ t had a strong roster to manage , not with the Cubs and not with the Sox .
This will be his best one on paper , and he will be judged accordingly .
It comes with the territory .
“ Absolutely the message is different [ now ] , ” he said .
“ It ’ s more refined .
The difference is players are telling me – the young core – they are telling me now we ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coaching staff has ] been doing the last few years .
We will tell these guys to get their head out of their [ butt ] and let ’ s start playing the game .
It ’ s no longer time to say , ‘ It ’ s all right , let ’ s go.
’ The players are telling me that.
” The players are telling listeners they are all in with Renteria .
Catcher Yasmani Grandal cited Renteria , whom he had as a coach , as a factor in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Of Renteria , shortstop Tim Anderson said , ‘ We have the right man leading us.
” Renteria knows Anderson has to add excellence on routine plays to excellence on the tough ones .
He knows left fielder Jimenez needs to be better .
There are others .
They have been challenged .
“ We ’ ve got a lot of defensive work planned [ for spring training ] , ” Renteria said .
“ These guys are understanding the reality of how they defend being an important part of winning baseball games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as I ’ ve been since I ’ ve been here .
We have a robust lineup .
We need to pitch and catch the ball .
“ We push these guys extremely hard .
Now you have a group of young players who are starting to learn and feel very confident about their skill set .
Now we have [ veteran ] guys who have been in that fire , been in that battle .
And our guys are telling our young players , ‘ Hey , ‘ it ’ s time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have time to mess around .
We have a window of opportunity , let ’ s take it .
’ ”

Not all was seashells, balloons and kids asking Eloy Jimenez “thin crust or deep dish?” on Saturday at SoxFest, where the overwhelming mood among players, club officials and fans was optimism about the coming season.
While nonstop talk of the postseason echoed through McCormick Place West, one couldn’t blame those who remain pessimistic. One guarded skeptic at a question-and-answer forum with manager Rick Renteria and general manager Rick Hahn reminded them of a White Sox offseason won with the additions of Jeff Samardzija, Adam LaRoche, Melky Cabrera, David Robertson and Zach Duke and an ensuing 2015 fail. Another questioned, within good reason, the Sox’ questionable defense.
Another, in as many words, suggested to Renteria that he’ll be under a closer microscope managing a team built to win rather than one in rebuild mode.
The questions seemed to light a fire under Renteria, who dropped two words not suitable for print in his responses.
“Ricky’s apology for language lasts the entire hour,” moderator Jason Benetti quipped.
“Pressure?” Renteria said. “I’ve got players. You want pressure? Have a limited bench, have limited pitching. That’s pressure.’’
That was what Renteria had during his first three seasons at the helm. Now that he finally has a roster built to win, he’s not backing down from letting everyone know his expectations are lofty, as they should be.
“Not knocking any team I’ve had -— those kids gave us everything they had,” he said. “But now, expectations are opportunities. Expectations don’t scare me. I don’t hedge my bet. If I suck, you can tell me I suck, and that’s the way it is.”
Renteria hasn’t had a strong roster to manage, not with the Cubs and not with the Sox. This will be his best one on paper, and he will be judged accordingly. It comes with the territory.
“Absolutely the message is different [now],” he said. “It’s more refined. The difference is players are telling me — the young core — they are telling me now we’ll take over some of the things [the coaching staff has] been doing the last few years. We will tell these guys to get their head out of their [butt] and let’s start playing the game. It’s no longer time to say, ‘It’s all right, let’s go.’ The players are telling me that.”
The players are telling listeners they are all in with Renteria. Catcher Yasmani Grandal cited Renteria, whom he had as a coach, as a factor in choosing the Sox in free agency. Of Renteria, shortstop Tim Anderson said, ‘‘We have the right man leading us.”
Renteria knows Anderson has to add excellence on routine plays to excellence on the tough ones. He knows Jimenez needs to be better in left field. There are others.
They have been challenged.
“We’ve got a lot of defensive work planned [for spring training],” Renteria said. “These guys are understanding the reality of how they defend being an important part of winning baseball games.
“I’m as optimistic as I’ve been since I’ve been here. We have a robust lineup. We need to pitch and catch the ball.
“We push these guys extremely hard. Now you have a group of young players who are starting to learn and feel very confident about their skill set. Now we have [veteran] guys who have been in that fire, been in that battle. And our guys are telling our young players, ‘Hey, it’s time to go. We don’t have time to mess around. We have a window of opportunity. Let’s take it.’ ”


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--2 stores robbed in Austin: police

2 stores robbed in Austin: police

A pair of businesses were robbed recently in Austin on the West Side .
In both robberies , two males @ @ @ @ @ store and brought them back inside before demanding money from the register , Chicago police @ @ @ @ @ stole property from employees and merchandise from the stores .
The first robbery happened about @ @ @ @ @ the 5200 block of West North Avenue , police said .
The second happened about @ @ @ @ @ the 5600 block of West Division Street .
Both robbers were wearing a ski mask @ @ @ @ @ .
Anyone with information is asked to call Area North detectives at 312-744-8263 .

A pair of businesses were robbed recently in Austin on the West Side.
In both robberies, two males found an employee outside the store and brought them back inside before demanding money from the register, Chicago police said. The robbers also stole property from employees and merchandise from the stores.
The first robbery happened about 8:30 p.m. Jan. 11 in the 5200 block of West North Avenue, police said. The second happened about 5:30 p.m. Jan. 19 in the 5600 block of West Division Street.
Both robbers were wearing a ski mask and gloves, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to call Area North detectives at 312-744-8263.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Ayo Dosunmu hits winner to lift Illini to sixth consecutive Big Ten win

ANN ARBOR , Mich. — As the final seconds ticked away in a tie game , Ayo Dosunmu was being guarded by Zavier Simpson , one of the top defenders in the Big Ten .
“ The one thing Ayo has is 6-5 , ” Illinois coach Brad Underwood said .
Dosunmu took advantage of his 5-inch height edge on Simpson , sinking a contested jumper from the free throw line with 0.5 seconds remaining to give No .
21 Illinois a 64-62 victory over Michigan on Saturday .
The Illini extended their winning streak to six and moved into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Big Ten for the moment .
“ Simpson , he played great defense .
He couldn ’ t have guarded that any better , ” Dosunmu said .
“ But I just got into my pull-up , got into my moves , and then just knocked the shot down.
” Illinois ( 15-5 , 7-2 ) won despite a quiet game from freshman big man Kofi Cockburn , who fouled out after scoring five points with three rebounds .
Michigan ( 11-8 , 2-6 ) has dropped four in a row and may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of an injury .
The Wolverines let the game slip away at the foul line , where they went 0 for 5 in the final four minutes .
Illinois tied it at 62 on a pair of free throws by Trent Frazier with 52.3 seconds left .
Then Jon Teske missed inside for Michigan , and the Illini had the ball back .
“ Coach just said , ‘ No ball screen , ’ ” Dosunmu said .
“ He told me , just make sure I got the last shot .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right play.
” Illinois was able to run the clock down and isolate Dosunmu — who said his nickname was “ Iso ” in high school — against Simpson .
Dosunmu couldn ’ t shake Simpson with a quick fake , but he was able to elevate and shoot over the Michigan guard .
“ We tried everything .
Great effort — I don ’ t think you can tell us that we didn ’ t play hard today , ” Michigan ’ s Franz Wagner said .
“ Free throws , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how you lose a game like that.
” Michigan had one last possession with under a second left , but the Wolverines didn ’ t get a shot off .
Livers returned for Michigan after missing six games with a groin injury , but he left in the second half after hurting himself again .
Livers was fouled during a dunk attempt — the same way he got hurt the first time — and came up holding his groin area .
He did go back in at the very end to throw the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dosunmu ’ s shot .
“ His effort out there was great , ” said coach Juwan Howard , who said Livers is day to day .
“ Energy from the crowd when his name was called just shows how much he ’ s a huge part of this team ’ s success.
” Illinois : It ’ s been quite a run for the Illini , who won in Ann Arbor for the first time since 2010 .
Illinois was tied with Michigan State for first place entering the game .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again when they play Sunday .
Michigan : The Wolverines shot poorly to start the game and missed too many free throws late .
They did a lot of other things right — Michigan turned the ball over only twice and contained Illinois on the boards — but this season is in danger of slipping away .
Michigan trailed 34-30 at halftime and did not have a single assist in the first half .
The Wolverines were 1 for 11 from 3-point range in the half and finished 4 of 17 on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s five assists for the game .
“ I think he ’ s the leading assist guy in the country , and they have five assists as a team and none in the first half , ” Underwood said .
“ If you would have told me before the game that we ’ re going to hold Michigan to five assists , I would have liked our chances.
” This is Illinois ’ highest AP ranking since it was No .
12 in January 2013 , and the Illini will probably move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week .
Michigan : The Wolverines travel to play Nebraska on Tuesday night .

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — As the final seconds ticked away in a tie game, Ayo Dosunmu was being guarded by Zavier Simpson, one of the top defenders in the Big Ten.
“The one thing Ayo has is 6-5,” Illinois coach Brad Underwood said.
Dosunmu took advantage of his 5-inch height edge on Simpson, sinking a contested jumper from the free throw line with 0.5 seconds remaining to give No. 21 Illinois a 64-62 victory over Michigan on Saturday. The Illini extended their winning streak to six and moved into sole possession of first place in the Big Ten for the moment.
“Simpson, he played great defense. He couldn’t have guarded that any better,” Dosunmu said. “But I just got into my pull-up, got into my moves, and then just knocked the shot down.”
Illinois (15-5, 7-2) won despite a quiet game from freshman big man Kofi Cockburn, who fouled out after scoring five points with three rebounds. Michigan (11-8, 2-6) has dropped four in a row and may again be without forward Isaiah Livers because of an injury.
The Wolverines let the game slip away at the foul line, where they went 0 for 5 in the final four minutes. Illinois tied it at 62 on a pair of free throws by Trent Frazier with 52.3 seconds left. Then Jon Teske missed inside for Michigan, and the Illini had the ball back.
“Coach just said, ‘No ball screen,’” Dosunmu said. “He told me, just make sure I got the last shot. He believed I was going to make the right play.”
Illinois was able to run the clock down and isolate Dosunmu — who said his nickname was “Iso” in high school — against Simpson. Dosunmu couldn’t shake Simpson with a quick fake, but he was able to elevate and shoot over the Michigan guard.
“We tried everything. Great effort — I don’t think you can tell us that we didn’t play hard today,” Michigan’s Franz Wagner said. “Free throws, a couple defensive lapses — that’s how you lose a game like that.”
Michigan had one last possession with under a second left, but the Wolverines didn’t get a shot off.
Dosunmu finished with 27 points.
Livers returned for Michigan after missing six games with a groin injury, but he left in the second half after hurting himself again. Livers was fouled during a dunk attempt — the same way he got hurt the first time — and came up holding his groin area. He did go back in at the very end to throw the long inbound pass for the Wolverines after Dosunmu’s shot.
“His effort out there was great,” said coach Juwan Howard, who said Livers is day to day. “Energy from the crowd when his name was called just shows how much he’s a huge part of this team’s success.”
Simpson led Michigan with 17 points.
BIG PICTURE
Illinois: It’s been quite a run for the Illini, who won in Ann Arbor for the first time since 2010. Illinois was tied with Michigan State for first place entering the game. The Spartans have a chance to pull even again when they play Sunday.
Michigan: The Wolverines shot poorly to start the game and missed too many free throws late. They did a lot of other things right — Michigan turned the ball over only twice and contained Illinois on the boards — but this season is in danger of slipping away.
SLOW START
Michigan trailed 34-30 at halftime and did not have a single assist in the first half. The Wolverines were 1 for 11 from 3-point range in the half and finished 4 of 17 on the day.
Simpson had three of Michigan’s five assists for the game.
“I think he’s the leading assist guy in the country, and they have five assists as a team and none in the first half,” Underwood said. “If you would have told me before the game that we’re going to hold Michigan to five assists, I would have liked our chances.”
POLL IMPLICATIONS
This is Illinois’ highest AP ranking since it was No. 12 in January 2013, and the Illini will probably move up after beating Purdue and Michigan this week.
UP NEXT
Illinois: The Illini host Minnesota on Thursday night.
Michigan: The Wolverines travel to play Nebraska on Tuesday night.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--DePaul falls to 1-6 in conference after home loss to St. John’s

LJ Figueroa scored a career-high 28 points as St. John ’ s topped DePaul 79-66 on Saturday at Wintrust Arena @ @ @ @ @ points for the Red Storm .
Rasheem Dunn had 13 points and eight rebounds for @ @ @ @ @ 13-8 , 2-6 Big East Conference ) , which ended its four-game road losing streak @ @ @ @ @ rebounds and four blocks .
Charlie Moore had 20 points and seven rebounds for the @ @ @ @ @ 1-6 ) .
Paul Reed added 15 points , 12 rebounds and three blocks .
@ @ @ @ @ .
The Red Storm improve to 2-0 against the Blue Demons this season .
St. @ @ @ @ @ 74-67 on Jan. 11 .
St. John ’ s plays Villanova at home on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ on the road on Wednesday .

LJ Figueroa scored a career-high 28 points as St. John’s topped DePaul 79-66 on Saturday at Wintrust Arena. Mustapha Heron added 20 points for the Red Storm.
Rasheem Dunn had 13 points and eight rebounds for St. John’s (13-8, 2-6 Big East Conference), which ended its four-game road losing streak. Julian Champagnie added 11 rebounds and four blocks.
Charlie Moore had 20 points and seven rebounds for the Blue Demons (13-7, 1-6). Paul Reed added 15 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks. Jalen Coleman-Lands had 15 points.
The Red Storm improve to 2-0 against the Blue Demons this season. St. John’s defeated DePaul 74-67 on Jan. 11. St. John’s plays Villanova at home on Tuesday. DePaul faces Seton Hall on the road on Wednesday.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Man found dead with head trauma in vacant Englewood home

A man was found dead Friday at a home in Englewood on the South Side , according to police .
@ @ @ @ @ 5:10 p.m. in a vacant home in the 6400 block of South Oakley Avenue with @ @ @ @ @ head , Chicago police said .
He was pronounced dead on the scene .
Although @ @ @ @ @ an autopsy conducted Saturday found that he was assaulted and died from his injuries , @ @ @ @ @ ’ s office said .
His death has been ruled a homicide .
No arrests @ @ @ @ @ Central detectives continue to investigate .
Read more on crime , and track the city @ @ @ @

A man was found dead Friday at a home in Englewood on the South Side, according to police.
Terrell English, 48, was found about 5:10 p.m. in a vacant home in the 6400 block of South Oakley Avenue with blunt force trauma to the head, Chicago police and the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. He was pronounced dead on the scene.
An autopsy conducted Saturday found that he was assaulted and died from his injuries, the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. His death has been ruled a homicide.
No arrests have been made. Area Central detectives continue to investigate.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Driver killed in Arlington Heights crash

A driver was killed in a crash Friday in northwest suburban Arlington Heights .
A red SUV was northbound on Arlington Heights Road just before 4 p.m. when the driver tried to turn left onto Hintz Road on a yellow light , according to a statement from Arlington Heights police .
A southbound yellow compact car went straight through the intersection on the yellow light and hit the SUV as it turned .
The driver of the SUV was unresponsive at the scene , police said .
Paramedics took the driver to a hospital , but the person was pronounced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an autopsy conducted Saturday confirmed the person died from their injuries , the Cook County medical examiner ’ s office said .
Their death has been ruled an accident .
The crash caused “ significant damage ” to both vehicles , police said .
The driver of the yellow car was checked out by paramedics at the scene but was not taken to a hospital .
There were no passengers in either vehicle and no other injuries were reported .
The intersection of Hintz and Arlington Heights roads was partially closed for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Major Case Assistance Team and the Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team are assisting with the investigation .

A driver was killed in a crash Friday in northwest suburban Arlington Heights.
A red SUV was northbound on Arlington Heights Road just before 4 p.m. when the driver tried to turn left onto Hintz Road on a yellow light, according to a statement from Arlington Heights police. A southbound yellow compact car went straight through the intersection on the yellow light and hit the SUV as it turned.
The driver of the SUV, 90-year-old Lilly Thompson, was unresponsive at the scene, police and the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. Paramedics took her to a hospital, but she was pronounced dead.
An autopsy conducted Saturday confirmed she died from her injuries, the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. Her death has been ruled an accident. She lived in Arlington Heights.
The crash caused “significant damage” to both vehicles, police said. The driver of the yellow car was checked out by paramedics at the scene but was not taken to a hospital. There were no passengers in either vehicle and no other injuries were reported.
The intersection of Hintz and Arlington Heights roads was partially closed for investigation until 9:30 p.m., police said.
The Major Case Assistance Team and the Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team are assisting with the investigation.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--White Sox’ Tim Anderson puts on bat-flipping seminar at SoxFest

The art of the bat flip isn ’ t something you can teach .
“ You just have to do @ @ @ @ @ said .
But that didn ’ t stop Anderson from trying to share his technique @ @ @ @ @ bat-flipping seminar at SoxFest on Saturday .
During the event , about 100 kids took @ @ @ @ @ Some contestants aggressively chucked them down the third-base line , while others did literal flips @ @ @ @ @ Anderson , who faced backlash last season for his bat flips , felt inspired by @ @ @ @ @ creativity .
“ It ’ s definitely changing the game , you can see it @ @ @ @ @ “ These kids come here and they enjoy those moments and that ’ s fun @ @ @ @ @ what they did with the clinic .
It was a good turnout.
” Here are @ @ @ @ @ s bat-flipping clinic :

The art of the bat flip isn’t something you can teach.
“You just have to do it,” Tim Anderson said.
But that didn’t stop Anderson from trying to share his technique with young fans at a bat-flipping seminar at SoxFest on Saturday.
During the event, about 100 kids took turns tossing plastic bats.
Some contestants aggressively chucked them down the third-base line, while others did literal flips after ditching their bats.
Anderson, who faced backlash last season for his bat flips, felt inspired by some of the contestants’ creativity.
“It’s definitely changing the game, you can see it,” Anderson said. “These kids come here and they enjoy those moments and that’s fun for them. You know what they did with the clinic. It was a good turnout.”
Here are some highlights from Anderson’s bat-flipping clinic:
At Tim Anderson’s bat flipping seminar but tbh the class belongs to this girl. #SoxFest pic.twitter.com/xRk2f1k6lf — Madeline Kenney (@madkenney) January 25, 2020
This guy needs a raise pic.twitter.com/7vEbn22xW4 — Madeline Kenney (@madkenney) January 25, 2020
A Tim Anderson approved bat flip pic.twitter.com/HPzJPI0uRP — Madeline Kenney (@madkenney) January 25, 2020
This is getting dangerous pic.twitter.com/aTPABlyPEn — Madeline Kenney (@madkenney) January 25, 2020


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Nick Madrigal believes he can be White Sox’ Opening Day second baseman

Prospect Nick Madrigal believes he ’ s major-league ready .
Now , he just has to prove it to the White Sox , who aren ’ t so sure yet .
The Sox declined to tender 2019 Gold Glove winner Yolmer Sanchez last month , paving the way for Madrigal this season .
As it stands now , general manager Rick Hahn said the Sox will rely on Leury Garcia , Danny Mendick and Madrigal to hold down the fort at second .
Could Madrigal be the Sox ’ Opening Day second baseman ?
“ I feel like it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in my mind , ” Madrigal said Friday .
“ I ’ m hopeful for it.
” But Hahn , who ’ s practiced patience with all the Sox prospects during the rebuild , seemed a little more hesitant about Madrigal .
“ He ’ s viable but he ’ s got a few more things to prove , ” Hahn said .
“ I think that when we go through trying to be as objective as possible thinking about where he is developmentally , he hasn ’ t necessarily answered all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minor leagues .
“ I don ’ t think we have him by any means written in pen as the Opening Day second baseman at this point .
...
But could he change our minds ?
Yeah.
” During a SoxFest panel on Saturday , director of player development Chris Getz noted that Madrigal wasn ’ t pleased with the Sox ’ decision to start him at Advanced Class A Winston-Salem last season .
But rather than pouting , Madrigal kept his mind on the larger goal : To make it to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Class AAA Charlotte , making a stop at Class AA Birmingham along the way .
He made a statement with his bat , slashing .311/.377/.414 in a combined 108 games .
Toward the end of last season , Madrigal , the No .
4 prospect in the Sox ’ organization , expected to receive a September call-up , but his phone never rang .
Madrigal ’ s offense seems to be there — he struck out only 16 times in 473 at-bats last season — but his defense needs some work .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ offseason focusing on speed and mobility in hopes to remove any doubt the Sox might have that he ’ s not ready for the big leagues .
“ This is probably the best shape I ’ ve ever been in my life , ” Madrigal said .
“ So I feel really good at this point.
” At this point , one of the only things working against Madrigal is his inexperience .
Manager Rick Renteria still wants to see Madrigal — who ’ s played only 28 games with Charlotte — get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the minors .
There is a chance Madrigal could surprise the Sox ’ brass and he could break spring training with the big-league ballclub .
“ We ’ re going to go in with fresh eyes and a fresh approach in spring training and see where he ’ s at , ” Hahn said .
“ And in all probability make an assessment there.
” It ’ s more likely , though , he ’ ll start his season in Charlotte .
Regardless , expect Madrigal to make his major-league debut in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve been ready for , I ’ ve had it in the back of my mind since the end of last season , ” Madrigal said .
“ I felt like I had a good chance going up there last year but it kind of just wasn ’ t in the cards last year .
But if they say it to me today , I ’ d be ready .
”

Prospect Nick Madrigal believes he’s major-league-ready. He just has to prove it to the White Sox, who aren’t so sure yet.
The Sox declined to tender 2019 Gold Glove winner Yolmer Sanchez last month, paving the way for Madrigal this season.
As it stands, general manager Rick Hahn said the Sox will rely on Leury Garcia, Danny Mendick and Madrigal to hold down the fort at second.
Could Madrigal be the Sox’ Opening Day second baseman?
“I feel like it’s a very realistic [possibility],” Madrigal said Friday. “I’m hopeful for it.”
But Hahn, who has practiced patience with all of the Sox’ prospects during the rebuild, seemed a little more hesitant about Madrigal.
“He’s viable, but he’s got a few more things to prove,” Hahn said. “I think that when we go through trying to be as objective as possible, thinking about where he is developmentally, he hasn’t necessarily answered all the questions we have for him in the minor leagues.
“I don’t think we have him by any means written in pen as the Opening Day second baseman at this point. . . . But could he change our minds? Yeah.”
During a SoxFest panel Saturday, director of player development Chris Getz noted that Madrigal wasn’t pleased with the Sox’ decision to start him at advanced Class A Winston-Salem last season.
But rather than pout, Madrigal kept his mind on the larger goal: to make it to the majors.
Madrigal ultimately finished 2019 with Class AAA Charlotte, making a stop at Class AA Birmingham along the way. He made a statement with his bat with a .311/.377/.414 slash line in a combined 108 games.
Toward the end of the season, Madrigal, the No. 4 prospect in the Sox’ organization, expected to receive a September call-up, but his phone never rang.
Madrigal’s offense seems to be there — he struck out only 16 times in 473 at-bats last season — but his defense needs some work. That’s why he spent this offseason focusing on speed and mobility to help remove any doubt the Sox might have that he’s not ready for the big leagues.
“This is probably the best shape I’ve ever been in,” Madrigal said. “So I feel really good at this point.”
At this point, one of the only things working against Madrigal is his inexperience. Manager Rick Renteria still wants to see Madrigal — who played only 28 games with Charlotte — get a few more at-bats and fielding experience in the minors.
There’s a chance Madrigal could surprise the Sox’ brass and break spring training with the big-league club.
“We’re going to go in with fresh eyes and a fresh approach in spring training and see where he’s at,” Hahn said. “And in all probability, make an assessment there.”
It’s more likely that he’ll start his season in Charlotte.
Regardless, expect Madrigal to make his major-league debut in 2020.
“That’s something I’ve been ready for,’’ Madrigal said. ‘‘I’ve had it in the back of my mind since the end of last season. I felt like I had a good chance of going up there last year, but it kind of just wasn’t in the cards. But if they say it to me today, I’d be ready.”


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-26--Dear Abby: I moved to be near my daughters, but one seldom sees me

DEAR ABBY : My husband and I retired five years ago and moved to a small town where my two daughters and two grown grandchildren live .
We moved here from another state to be near them and other relatives who live closer , but not in this city .
I am sad and hurt by the way one of my daughters treats me .
She almost never invites us to her home — maybe twice a year , when other relatives are in town visiting — and I think she includes us only because she feels obligated .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” me .
I was shocked because I have seldom been around him and always went out of my way to be friendly to him .
When I asked her why he hates me , her answer was that he doesn ’ t like anyone !
He ’ s very controlling .
He doesn ’ t allow her to get phone calls at certain times and insists she stay home if he is home , etc .
His best friend is allowed to come to their home anytime and make himself comfortable .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ their house when in town , sometimes for several days .
When I invite relatives over , my daughter comes for a short time , then says she needs to get back home .
Her husband never accompanies her , even though he is invited .
I make it a point not to call their home phone .
I text her when needed , but she has to turn her phone off when he doesn ’ t want to be bothered .
I wanted to be in my daughter ’ s life , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
— SAD SOUTHERN LADY DEAR LADY : When you decided to make the move to be closer to your daughter , did she share your excitement ?
If not , it may be the reason — or part of the reason — for her husband ’ s reaction to you .
If that isn ’ t the reason , then this is happening because your daughter married a man with serious control issues and , for whatever reason , she is willing to allow it .
It may have nothing to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there an existing or evolving tradition regarding what surname to give to the children of parents who already have hyphenated last names ?
For example , when “ James Moreland-Ashford ” marries “ Sarah Rosen-Hubbard , ” what surname should their children use ?
Surely no parent wants to saddle their child with four hyphenated last names , but choosing only one , or one from each parent might end up offending one or more grandparents and other relatives .
I heard about one family who dropped all their existing surnames and chose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and their children .
It did not go over well with relatives in either family .
It also proved challenging with respect to the parents ’ professional lives since they had to reintroduce themselves to all their colleagues and clients .
Have you any advice for us and our hyphenated-surname children ?
— OVERLOADED IN CALIFORNIA DEAR OVERLOADED : I saw this situation coming decades ago .
My advice is just this : Keep it simple , and do not allow anyone else ’ s ego to influence your decision .
Your children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
To receive a collection of Abby ’ s most memorable — and most frequently requested — poems and essays , send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby — Keepers Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shipping and handling are included in the price .

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I retired five years ago and moved to a small town where my two daughters and two grown grandchildren live. We moved here from another state to be near them and other relatives who live closer, but not in this city.
I am sad and hurt by the way one of my daughters treats me. She almost never invites us to her home — maybe twice a year, when other relatives are in town visiting — and I think she includes us only because she feels obligated. She has told me her husband “hates” me. I was shocked because I have seldom been around him and always went out of my way to be friendly to him.
When I asked her why he hates me, her answer was that he doesn’t like anyone! He’s very controlling. He doesn’t allow her to get phone calls at certain times and insists she stay home if he is home, etc.
His best friend is allowed to come to their home anytime and make himself comfortable. His relatives are welcome to stay at their house when in town, sometimes for several days. When I invite relatives over, my daughter comes for a short time, then says she needs to get back home. Her husband never accompanies her, even though he is invited.
I make it a point not to call their home phone. I text her when needed, but she has to turn her phone off when he doesn’t want to be bothered. I wanted to be in my daughter’s life, but I am not welcome. Why? — SAD SOUTHERN LADY
DEAR LADY: When you decided to make the move to be closer to your daughter, did she share your excitement? If not, it may be the reason — or part of the reason — for her husband’s reaction to you. If that isn’t the reason, then this is happening because your daughter married a man with serious control issues and, for whatever reason, she is willing to allow it. It may have nothing to do with you.
DEAR ABBY: Is there an existing or evolving tradition regarding what surname to give to the children of parents who already have hyphenated last names? For example, when “James Moreland-Ashford” marries “Sarah Rosen-Hubbard,” what surname should their children use?
Surely no parent wants to saddle their child with four hyphenated last names, but choosing only one, or one from each parent might end up offending one or more grandparents and other relatives.
I heard about one family who dropped all their existing surnames and chose a brand-new one for both the parents and their children. It did not go over well with relatives in either family. It also proved challenging with respect to the parents’ professional lives since they had to reintroduce themselves to all their colleagues and clients.
Have you any advice for us and our hyphenated-surname children? — OVERLOADED IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR OVERLOADED: I saw this situation coming decades ago. My advice is just this: Keep it simple, and do not allow anyone else’s ego to influence your decision. Your children will thank you for it.
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.
To receive a collection of Abby’s most memorable — and most frequently requested — poems and essays, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby — Keepers Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. Shipping and handling are included in the price.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-26--Masked robbers hold up Naperville gas station at gunpoint: police

Officers responded about 12:25 a.m. to reports of the armed robbery in the 1900 block of Brookdale Road , Naperville @ @ @ @ @ suspects entered the gas station , displayed handguns and stole money and cigarettes before driving @ @ @ @ @ .
No one was hurt during the robbery , police said .
Both male suspects @ @ @ @ @ police said .
One has a slender build and a mustache .
He was wearing @ @ @ @ @ hooded sweatshirt , pants and boots .
The other suspect was also masked and wore @ @ @ @ @ , police said .
He has a medium build .
Anyone with information about the @ @ @ @ @ Naperville police at 630-420-6666 .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ @ @ @

Two people robbed a Naperville gas station at gunpoint Saturday.
Officers responded about 12:25 a.m. to reports of the armed robbery in the 1900 block of Brookdale Road, Naperville police said. The two suspects entered the gas station, displayed handguns and stole money and cigarettes before driving off in a black sedan.
No one was hurt during the robbery, police said.
Both male suspects are described as 5-foot-6, police said. One has a slender build and a mustache. He was wearing a dark-colored mask, a hooded sweatshirt, pants and boots.
The other suspect was also masked and wore a hooded sweatshirt and jeans, police said. He has a medium build.
Anyone with information about the robbery is abled to contact Naperville police at 630-420-6666.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-26--Woman injured during fight in Hollywood Park apartment

A woman was injured when an argument turned violent Sunday in Hollywood Park on the Northwest Side .
The 26-year-old @ @ @ @ @ with her son about 1 a.m. when a male she knows entered the first-floor apartment @ @ @ @ @ North Spaulding Avenue , according to Chicago police .
They started to argue before the @ @ @ @ @ back of the head , causing a laceration , police said .
She was taken @ @ @ @ @ good condition .
Multiple children were in the apartment at the time but no other @ @ @ @ @ said .
No one is in custody as Area North detectives investigate .
Read more @ @ @ @ @ the city ’ s homicides .

A woman was injured when an argument turned violent Sunday in Hollywood Park on the Northwest Side.
The 26-year-old was lying in a bed with her son about 1 a.m. when a male she knows entered the first-floor apartment in the 5700 block of North Spaulding Avenue, according to Chicago police.
They started to argue before the male hit her in the back of the head, causing a laceration, police said. She was taken to Swedish Covenant Hospital in good condition.
Multiple children were in the apartment at the time but no other injuries were reported, police said.
No one is in custody as Area North detectives investigate.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-26--2 Chicago cops hurt in Garfield Park crash, driver arrested

A woman was arrested after a crash that injured two Chicago police officers Saturday in Garfield Park on the West @ @ @ @ @ car responding to a call of a car fire was traveling southbound about 11:47 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ North Pulaski Road when it was hit by a black 2012 Volkswagen that was turning @ @ @ @ @ Street , Chicago police said .
Two male officers were taken to hospitals in good @ @ @ @ @ The 60-year-old woman driving the Volkswagen sedan was taken into custody , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ as alcohol-related .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides @

A woman was arrested after a crash that injured two Chicago police officers Saturday in Garfield Park on the West Side.
A marked squad car responding to a call of a car fire was traveling southbound about 11:47 p.m. in the 600 block of North Pulaski Road when it was hit by a black 2012 Volkswagen that was turning left onto Pulaski from Erie Street, Chicago police said.
Two male officers were taken to hospitals in good condition, police said.
The 60-year-old woman driving the Volkswagen sedan was taken into custody, police said. The crash is being investigated as alcohol-related.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-26--Thieves drive away with parked vehicles in Grand Crossing

Police are warning Grand Crossing residents of a three vehicle thefts that happened this month .
In each case , @ @ @ @ @ on the street returned to find them missing , Chicago police said .
• About @ @ @ @ @ the 1400 block of East 68th Street ; • Between 9 p.m. Jan. 21 and @ @ @ @ @ the 6800 block of South Dorchester Avenue ; and • About 7:40 a.m. Jan. 23 @ @ @ @ @ East 68th Street .
No suspect description was available .
Anyone with information is asked @ @ @ @ @ at 312-747-8380 .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides @

Police are warning Grand Crossing residents of a three vehicle thefts that happened this month.
In each case, residents who parked their cars on the street returned to find them missing, Chicago police said.
The thefts happened:
About 7 a.m. Jan. 7 in the 1400 block of East 68th Street;
Between 9 p.m. Jan. 21 and 8:20 a.m. Jan. 22 in the 6800 block of South Dorchester Avenue; and
About 7:40 a.m. Jan. 23 in the 1400 block of East 68th Street.
No suspect description was available.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Area Central detectives at 312-747-8380.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-26--Knife-wielding robber strikes in Irving Park, North Park

Police are warning residents about a man who has robbed two people at knifepoint this month in Irving Park and @ @ @ @ @ Side .
In each case , the suspect approached a victim , pulled out a @ @ @ @ @ ’ s wallet , according to a community alert from Chicago police .
The first @ @ @ @ @ Jan. 11 in the 3000 block of West Addison Street , police said .
The @ @ @ @ @ Jan. 18 in the 3400 block of West Berwyn Avenue .
The suspect is described @ @ @ @ @ years old standing 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-10 and weighing about 145 pounds , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ to call Area North detectives at 312-744-8263 .
Read more on crime , and track @ @ @ @ @ .

Police are warning residents about a man who has robbed two people at knifepoint this month in Irving Park and North Park on the Northwest Side.
In each case, the suspect approached a victim, pulled out a knife and demanded the victim’s wallet, according to a community alert from Chicago police.
The first hold-up happened about 8:30 p.m. Jan. 11 in the 3000 block of West Addison Street, police said. The second happened about 12:30 p.m. Jan. 18 in the 3400 block of West Berwyn Avenue.
The suspect is described as a man about 30 years old standing 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-10 and weighing about 145 pounds, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to call Area North detectives at 312-744-8263.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Trio of armed robbers hit Ravenswood Manor convenience store

A trio of armed robbers stole from a convenience store Saturday in Ravenswood Manor on the North Side .
The @ @ @ @ @ about 9:15 p.m. in the 2900 block of West Montrose Avenue , Chicago police said @ @ @ @ @ a handgun , and the others went behind the counter and stole money , liquor @ @ @ @ @ man working at the store wasn ’ t hurt , police said .
The suspects @ @ @ @ @ .
No arrests have been made , and Area North detectives are investigating .
Read @ @ @ @ @ track the city ’ s homicides .

A trio of armed robbers stole from a convenience store Saturday in Ravenswood Manor on the North Side.
The three males entered the store about 9:15 p.m. in the 2900 block of West Montrose Avenue, Chicago police said. One of them displayed a handgun, and the others went behind the counter and stole money, liquor and cigarettes.
The 48-year-old man working at the store wasn’t hurt, police said. The suspects ran off in the alley.
No arrests have been made, and Area North detectives are investigating.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosuntimes--2020-01-25--Woodridge police investigating armed robbery at T-Mobile store

Woodridge police are investigating an armed robbery that happened Thursday at a T-Mobile store in the west suburb .
About @ @ @ @ @ man entered the store located at 1001 75th Street , Woodridge police said .
He @ @ @ @ @ cash and phones from employees .
Anyone with information about the theft is asked to @ @ @ @ @ .

Woodridge police are investigating an armed robbery that happened Thursday at a T-Mobile store in the west suburb.
About 7:42 p.m., a masked man entered the store located at 1001 75th Street, Woodridge police said. He displayed a handgun and demanded cash and phones from employees.
Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact Woodridge police at 630-960-8998.