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  "path": "/morning-edition/2026/02/24/ukraine-russia-alexi-giannoulias-dick-durbin-loyola-taxes",
  "publishedAt": "2026-02-24T14:00:00.000Z",
  "site": "https://chicago.suntimes.com",
  "textContent": "<h3>Good morning, Chicago. ✶</h3><p>🔎 <b>Below</b>: Keshia Golden says she fatally stabbed Calvin Sidney in 2022 when he attacked her after their baby shower. The mother of a 3-year-old still faces murder charges in a case her lawyers argue is self-defense.</p><p>🗞️ <b>Plus</b>: Reflecting on four years after Russia invaded Ukraine, a major campaign donor has reputed mob ties and more news you need to know.</p><p>📧 <b>Subscribe</b>: <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletter-hub.suntimes.com/\" target=\"_blank\" >Get this newsletter delivered to your inbox weekday mornings.</a></p><p>⏱️: <i>An 8-minute read</i></p><hr><p></p><h4>TODAY’S WEATHER 🌥️</h4><p>Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain and a high near 41.</p><hr><p></p><h4>TODAY’S TOP STORY 🔎</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-950000\" name=\"image-950000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/aceb924/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6122x3436+0+0/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb3%2Feb%2Fb72cc9c64fc3b2b761c9a53d1bf2%2Fdomestickilling-260224-12.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/1b2b889/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6122x3436+0+0/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb3%2Feb%2Fb72cc9c64fc3b2b761c9a53d1bf2%2Fdomestickilling-260224-12.JPG 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e8b145e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6122x3436+0+0/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb3%2Feb%2Fb72cc9c64fc3b2b761c9a53d1bf2%2Fdomestickilling-260224-12.JPG\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Keshia Golden looks out the window at The Freedom Defense Center of Austin on Feb. 23. Golden is claiming self-defense in the 2022 murder of her child's father, Calvin Sidney. \" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e8b145e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6122x3436+0+0/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb3%2Feb%2Fb72cc9c64fc3b2b761c9a53d1bf2%2Fdomestickilling-260224-12.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/f92fe95/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6122x3436+0+0/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb3%2Feb%2Fb72cc9c64fc3b2b761c9a53d1bf2%2Fdomestickilling-260224-12.JPG 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e8b145e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6122x3436+0+0/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb3%2Feb%2Fb72cc9c64fc3b2b761c9a53d1bf2%2Fdomestickilling-260224-12.JPG\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Keshia Golden is claiming self-defense in the 2022 killing of her child’s father, Calvin Sidney.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><h3><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-t/\" target=\"_blank\" >Woman says she killed abusive boyfriend to save herself and their unborn child — will jury agree?</a></h3><p></p><h5>By <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-i/\" target=\"_blank\" >Sophie Sherry</a></h5><p><b>Fatal stabbing</b>: Three and a half years ago, Keshia Golden thought her life was over — one way or another. Golden said that when her boyfriend threw her against a counter, she thought she and her unborn child were going to die. Then, after she fought back and fatally stabbed him, she thought she would spend the rest of her life behind bars, she said. </p><p><b>Her release</b>: Golden was eventually released from jail, thanks to a team of advocates and lawyers who rallied around her. She was able to give birth and raise her daughter on the outside. It has been \"the best thing that ever happened\" to her, Golden told the Sun-Times.</p><p><b>Pending trial</b>: Now she’s preparing for trial and is fearful that a jury won’t see her side of the story. Golden is due back in court next week. Her lawyers plan to argue she was acting in self-defense against a man with a history of abuse. But they’re pleading for the Cook County state’s attorney’s office to drop the case altogether.</p><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-d/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>READ MORE</b></a></p><hr><p></p><h4>WAR IN UKRAINE 🇺🇦</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-d00000\" name=\"image-d00000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e15a9e5/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+158/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fae%2F48%2Fe046a09a4b7889543bc3be8da186%2Fukraineanniversary-260224-2.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/47784b9/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+158/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fae%2F48%2Fe046a09a4b7889543bc3be8da186%2Fukraineanniversary-260224-2.jpg 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a346352/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+158/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fae%2F48%2Fe046a09a4b7889543bc3be8da186%2Fukraineanniversary-260224-2.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Oksana Koledova, owner of a Ukrainian grocery store called Varenychok located at 4840 N. Cumberland Ave. stands in her Norridge shop, Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. | Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a346352/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+158/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fae%2F48%2Fe046a09a4b7889543bc3be8da186%2Fukraineanniversary-260224-2.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7767a8e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+158/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fae%2F48%2Fe046a09a4b7889543bc3be8da186%2Fukraineanniversary-260224-2.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a346352/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+158/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fae%2F48%2Fe046a09a4b7889543bc3be8da186%2Fukraineanniversary-260224-2.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Oksana Koledova came to the U.S. from Ukraine 19 years ago, but the war in her homeland is her daily life.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><h3><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-h/\" target=\"_blank\" >4 years after Russian invasion of Ukraine, area residents reflect</a></h3><p></p><h5>By <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-k/\" target=\"_blank\" >Violet Miller</a> and <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-u/\" target=\"_blank\" >Stephanie Zimmermann</a></h5><p><b>'Daily life'</b>: When Russia first invaded Ukraine in 2022, Oksana Koledova regularly checked in with her brother, who was fighting on the front lines, and with loved ones facing down bullets and bombs. Wounded two years ago, her brother now brings resources to fellow troops, and her father runs meals and supplies to soldiers. For Koledova, a Vernon Hills resident who moved to the U.S. 19 years ago, the fight for her home country is her \"daily life.\"</p><p><b>Incalculable toll</b>: An estimated 1.8 million soldiers reportedly have been killed, wounded or gone missing on both sides. But that doesn’t include many who have returned from the battlefield with mental health struggles, Koledova said.</p><p><b>Seeking refuge</b>: Iryna Potishma is among some of the 5.9 million refugees who have fled the country as Russia continues to occupy Ukrainian territory. More than 40,000 Ukrainians have found new homes in the Chicago area. Potishma's loved ones back home have mostly been spared from the battle, though months ago, missiles struck a building near her brother’s apartment. Adapting to life in the U.S. has been her own struggle.</p><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-o/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>READ MORE</b></a></p><hr><p></p><h4>ELECTIONS ☑️</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-510000\" name=\"image-510000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/03cbb8b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1122+0+105/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fca%2Fcf%2Fc574877f4e348c5f58b6b0a69682%2F0123a7ba-50c3-43c0-81a9-8e808d5ef111.png 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/664b62a/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1122+0+105/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fca%2Fcf%2Fc574877f4e348c5f58b6b0a69682%2F0123a7ba-50c3-43c0-81a9-8e808d5ef111.png 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/158224f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1122+0+105/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fca%2Fcf%2Fc574877f4e348c5f58b6b0a69682%2F0123a7ba-50c3-43c0-81a9-8e808d5ef111.png\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"From left, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and his campaign donor Perry Mandera.\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/158224f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1122+0+105/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fca%2Fcf%2Fc574877f4e348c5f58b6b0a69682%2F0123a7ba-50c3-43c0-81a9-8e808d5ef111.png 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/116745b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1122+0+105/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fca%2Fcf%2Fc574877f4e348c5f58b6b0a69682%2F0123a7ba-50c3-43c0-81a9-8e808d5ef111.png 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/158224f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1122+0+105/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fca%2Fcf%2Fc574877f4e348c5f58b6b0a69682%2F0123a7ba-50c3-43c0-81a9-8e808d5ef111.png\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>From left, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and his campaign donor Perry Mandera.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Sun-Times file photos</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><h3><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-b/\" target=\"_blank\" >Ex-strip club owner with reputed mob ties is big campaign donor to Alexi Giannoulias</a></h3><p></p><h5>By <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-n/\" target=\"_blank\" >Robert Herguth</a></h5><p><b>Donor history</b>: For years, businessman Perry Mandera ran a topless bar on the Near North Side, at times with help from reputed organized crime associates, including the late \"mob cop\" Fred Pascente. These days, Mandera, his family and their businesses are contributing heavily to the campaign fund benefitting Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias.</p><p><b>The haul</b>: With Giannoulias a potential candidate for Chicago mayor, companies affiliated with Mandera have contributed at least $80,000 to Citizens for Giannoulias since 2022. That’s the year Giannoulias won his current elected post. Beyond that, Mandera and his family have collectively given nearly $30,000 more over the last five years.</p><p><b>Key context</b>: Pascente, a former Chicago cop known to associate with the late mobster Anthony Spilotro, was listed in a 1997 Chicago Crime Commission report as a known member or associate of organized crime. Pascente died in 2014, not long before his autobiography was released. Titled \"Mob Cop: My Life of Crime in the Chicago Police Department,\" the book includes passages about Mandera.</p><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-p/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>READ MORE</b></a></p><hr><p></p><h4>MORE NEWS YOU NEED 🗞️</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-920000\" name=\"image-920000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/cff8e91/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4032x2263+0+381/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F94%2F37%2Fd7d007c943eb8595274ec8fcb696%2Fimg-2967.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/5470128/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4032x2263+0+381/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F94%2F37%2Fd7d007c943eb8595274ec8fcb696%2Fimg-2967.jpg 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/112a5f4/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4032x2263+0+381/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F94%2F37%2Fd7d007c943eb8595274ec8fcb696%2Fimg-2967.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Yoni Pizer's rental car and a truck on fire in a Puerto Vallarta street as violence spread across the area after the Mexican army killed New Generation Jalisco Cartel, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.\"\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/112a5f4/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4032x2263+0+381/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F94%2F37%2Fd7d007c943eb8595274ec8fcb696%2Fimg-2967.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b8122b0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4032x2263+0+381/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F94%2F37%2Fd7d007c943eb8595274ec8fcb696%2Fimg-2967.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/112a5f4/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4032x2263+0+381/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F94%2F37%2Fd7d007c943eb8595274ec8fcb696%2Fimg-2967.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p> Jonathan Pizer’s rental car and a truck on fire in Puerto Vallarta.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Provided</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul class=\"rte2-style-ul\" style=\"line-height: inherit; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 24px; padding: 0px; list-style-type: disc;\" id=\"rte-742d4945-118a-11f1-9503-0dbc8aae0681\"><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-a/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Ex-state rep in Jalisco</b></a>: Jonathan \"Yoni\" Pizer told the Sun-Times he was on vacation Sunday in Puerto Vallarta when he was forced out of his rental car at gunpoint. The car was set ablaze and he fled to safety as government forces nearby killed the cartel leader known as \"El Mencho.\"<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-f/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Family mourns Plainfield teen</b></a>: The family of Trevon Wright, 18, found out he had been gunned down after seeing, on the Citizen app, a shooting located in his last known area.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-z/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Woman calls police on politician</b></a>: State senator and current congressional candidate Mike Simmons was reported to Chicago police while canvassing for votes Friday in Buena Park. <br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-v/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>State of the Union</b></a>: Sen. Dick Durbin will bring the Chicago woman who inspired him to introduce the DREAM Act 25 years ago to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday, as several Illinois Democrats plan to skip it.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-e/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>WGN layoffs</b></a>: The Sun-Times has learned that eight to nine camera-facing employees at WGN were let go Monday, following recent layoffs behind the scenes that included writers. WGN parent company Nexstar is working to merge with Tegna in a deal that’s under regulatory review.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-s/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Snowplow contest winners</b></a>: In a dig against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, one of Chicago's snowplows has been named \"Abolish ICE,\" following thousands of votes cast in a city-run contest. The other winning names: \"Stephen Coldbert,\" \"Pope Frío XIV,\" \"Svencoolie\" and \"Caleb Chilliams.\"<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-g/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Gary Clark Jr. review</b></a>: Blues powerhouse Gary Clark Jr. lit up the stage at Buddy Guy’s Legends on Saturday, with an assist from the man himself, in a moment that felt like a passing of the torch.</li></ul><hr><p></p><h4>HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT 🏗️</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-db0000\" name=\"image-db0000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ba87816/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+72/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff5%2F73%2Fc97035fd4561b41e2a956a29493f%2Floyola-260224-3.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b9ad1c6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+72/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff5%2F73%2Fc97035fd4561b41e2a956a29493f%2Floyola-260224-3.jpg 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6861f67/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+72/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff5%2F73%2Fc97035fd4561b41e2a956a29493f%2Floyola-260224-3.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"A fence around a partially demolished Rogers Park building with large construction equipment nearby.\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6861f67/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+72/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff5%2F73%2Fc97035fd4561b41e2a956a29493f%2Floyola-260224-3.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/c032318/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+72/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff5%2F73%2Fc97035fd4561b41e2a956a29493f%2Floyola-260224-3.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6861f67/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+72/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff5%2F73%2Fc97035fd4561b41e2a956a29493f%2Floyola-260224-3.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Demolition has started at 1224 W. Loyola Ave. in Rogers Park.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><h3><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-w/\" target=\"_blank\" >Loyola University starts demolition on Rogers Park flatiron building</a></h3><h3></h3><h5>By <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-yd/\" target=\"_blank\" >Abby Miller</a></h5><p><b>Demo begins</b>: Loyola University Chicago began demolishing a 100-year-old flatiron building in Rogers Park last week, despite a yearslong push by community members to save the triangle-shaped building. Demolition is expected to take four to six weeks, the university said.</p><p><b>Key context</b>: Constructed in 1926 by architect R. Bernard Kurzon, the 30-unit apartment building at 1224 W. Loyola Ave. was once home to businesses Archie’s Cafe, Roman Susan Gallery and Edge Art. It’s next to the Loyola Red Line stop.</p><p><b>What's next</b>: A spokesperson for Loyola has said the location is part of a future Chicago Transit Authority project, \"meaning Loyola will not be the sole decisionmaker regarding its long-term use. But we are committed to stewarding the site responsibly and thoughtfully.\"</p><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-yh/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>READ MORE</b></a></p><hr><p></p><h4>MUST-READ COMMENTARY 🗣️</h4><ul class=\"rte2-style-ul\" style=\"line-height: inherit; margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 24px; padding: 0px; list-style-type: disc;\" id=\"rte-742d9763-118a-11f1-9503-0dbc8aae0681\"><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-yk/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Neil Steinberg</b></a>: The Trump administration has slashed away at science — but scientists are pushing back.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-yu/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Ralph Martire</b></a>: Illinois' budget blues were around long before Trump's cuts.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jl/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Natalie Y. Moore</b></a>: Chicago shaped the Smokestack twins in the film \"Sinners.\" So did World War I and its aftermath, when many Black people embraced agency in the face of racism.</li></ul><hr><p></p><h4>TAXES 💰</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-7d0000\" name=\"image-7d0000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a92a35f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+0/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F7a%2F1e%2F66c04eec4fedbe877085f640e86f%2Fonline-bigbill.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/5564403/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+0/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F7a%2F1e%2F66c04eec4fedbe877085f640e86f%2Fonline-bigbill.jpg 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ac97b67/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+0/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F7a%2F1e%2F66c04eec4fedbe877085f640e86f%2Fonline-bigbill.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"President Donald Trump’s massive tax and spending bill will have vast implications for Illinois taxpayers.\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ac97b67/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+0/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F7a%2F1e%2F66c04eec4fedbe877085f640e86f%2Fonline-bigbill.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7268219/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+0/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F7a%2F1e%2F66c04eec4fedbe877085f640e86f%2Fonline-bigbill.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ac97b67/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+0/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F7a%2F1e%2F66c04eec4fedbe877085f640e86f%2Fonline-bigbill.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>President Donald Trump’s massive tax and spending bill will have vast implications for Illinois taxpayers.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Eric White/Sun-Times illustration</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><h3><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jr/\" target=\"_blank\" >With Trump’s sweeping tax bill, beauty is in the eye of the taxpayer</a></h3><p></p><h5>By <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jy/\" target=\"_blank\" >Chris Casacchia</a></h5><p><b>Big bill</b>: The passage of President Donald Trump’s massive tax and spending bill last year carries vast implications for Illinois taxpayers, with experts saying the wealthiest filers are likely to reap the most benefits.</p><p><b>Key context</b>: The so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law July 2025 and made permanent several provisions in Trump’s old Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which expired Dec. 31, 2025.</p><p><b>Overview</b>: The bill includes more than just tax cuts. It makes spending cuts to certain federal programs as well as boosts spending for some agencies. Overall, the megabill will upend household finances, but will also provide more clarity for financial planning, financial advisers have said.</p><p><b>Down to brass tax</b>: Find our breakdown of the bill's vast implications for Illinois taxpayers <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jj/\" target=\"_blank\" >here</a>.</p><p><b>From our tax guide</b>: <br></p><ul class=\"rte2-style-ul\" style=\"line-height: inherit; margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 24px; padding: 0px; list-style-type: disc;\" id=\"rte-742dbe73-118a-11f1-9503-0dbc8aae0681\"><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jt/\" target=\"_blank\" >What taxpayers need to know about savings plans, tax changes in 2026</a></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-ji/\" target=\"_blank\" >Strategies to consider if you’re looking to reduce capital gains taxes</a></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jd/\" target=\"_blank\" >How to avoid underpayment penalties by the IRS</a></li></ul><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jh/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>MORE ON TAXES</b></a></p><hr><p></p><h4> FROM THE PRESS BOX 🏈🏒🏀</h4><ul class=\"rte2-style-ul\" style=\"line-height: inherit; margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 24px; padding: 0px; list-style-type: disc;\" id=\"rte-742de580-118a-11f1-9503-0dbc8aae0681\"><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-jk/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>NFL Scouting Combine</b></a>: Bears coach Ben Johnson and general manager Ryan Poles will meet the media Tuesday blocks from the Indiana statehouse. At issue will be building a Super Bowl contender.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-ju/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>McKenna moves</b></a>: The Blackhawks are noticing NHL prospect Gavin McKenna's rapid growth as the 2026 draft nears.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-tl/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Sky’s new era</b></a>: As franchise valuations surge, early investors, longtime fans and players from the inaugural season reflect on what the Sky mean, and what they could become.<br></li><li><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-tr/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>Boys basketball</b></a>: Our previews and predictions for the IHSA Class 4A boys basketball state tournament — <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-ty/\" target=\"_blank\" >and Class 3A</a>.</li></ul><hr><p></p><h4>CHICAGO MINI CROSSWORD 🌭</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-floatLeft> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-1a0001\" name=\"image-1a0001\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9d7e745/2147483647/strip/true/crop/396x222+0+3/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb6%2Fca%2F07ba5cb34d3da272b327aecdad9f%2Ffy2025-cst-marketing-games-website-images-490x2484-990514079e028a3c.png 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/321daab/2147483647/strip/true/crop/396x222+0+3/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb6%2Fca%2F07ba5cb34d3da272b327aecdad9f%2Ffy2025-cst-marketing-games-website-images-490x2484-990514079e028a3c.png 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/685000c/2147483647/strip/true/crop/396x222+0+3/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb6%2Fca%2F07ba5cb34d3da272b327aecdad9f%2Ffy2025-cst-marketing-games-website-images-490x2484-990514079e028a3c.png\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Mini crossword\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/685000c/2147483647/strip/true/crop/396x222+0+3/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb6%2Fca%2F07ba5cb34d3da272b327aecdad9f%2Ffy2025-cst-marketing-games-website-images-490x2484-990514079e028a3c.png 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a48c31e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/396x222+0+3/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb6%2Fca%2F07ba5cb34d3da272b327aecdad9f%2Ffy2025-cst-marketing-games-website-images-490x2484-990514079e028a3c.png 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/685000c/2147483647/strip/true/crop/396x222+0+3/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb6%2Fca%2F07ba5cb34d3da272b327aecdad9f%2Ffy2025-cst-marketing-games-website-images-490x2484-990514079e028a3c.png\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>Today's clue</b>: 3D: \"Mr. Cub\" aka ___ Banks</p><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-tt/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>PLAY NOW</b></a></p><hr><p></p><h4>BRIGHT ONE 🔆</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-230000\" name=\"image-230000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ad462be/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6725x3774+0+354/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F18%2F9b%2F805679294cec94ec99c72d79f00b%2Ficeboat-260210-39.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/77825ff/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6725x3774+0+354/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F18%2F9b%2F805679294cec94ec99c72d79f00b%2Ficeboat-260210-39.jpg 2x\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/aba9801/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6725x3774+0+354/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F18%2F9b%2F805679294cec94ec99c72d79f00b%2Ficeboat-260210-39.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" srcset=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"From left: Deckhand Romel Rubio, Captain of the Perseverance George Radomski, Capt. Billy Meilicke, Marine Engineer Richard Frizelis, Deckhand Keith Kliest and Marine Engineer Edric Hernandez stand on the icebreaking boat named the “James J. Versluis,” Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026. | Pat Nabong/Sun-Times \" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/aba9801/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6725x3774+0+354/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F18%2F9b%2F805679294cec94ec99c72d79f00b%2Ficeboat-260210-39.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/c038677/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6725x3774+0+354/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F18%2F9b%2F805679294cec94ec99c72d79f00b%2Ficeboat-260210-39.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" data-src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/aba9801/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6725x3774+0+354/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F18%2F9b%2F805679294cec94ec99c72d79f00b%2Ficeboat-260210-39.jpg\" data-lazy-load=\"true\" src=\"data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZlcnNpb249IjEuMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIyNzVweCIgd2lkdGg9IjQ5MHB4Ij48L3N2Zz4=\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Capt. Billy Meilicke and his crew.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Pat Nabong/Sun-Times</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><h3><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-ti/\" target=\"_blank\" >Icebreaker boat the James J. Versluis has been shattering lake since 1957</a></h3><h3></h3><h5>Reporting by <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-td/\" target=\"_blank\" >Stefano Esposito</a></h5><p>Before boarding the almost 70-year-old James J. Versluis, passengers get a life jacket and a set of ear plugs, because things can get \"loud and crunchy.\"</p><p>As the Versluis sets off from its mooring at Navy Pier one morning in early February, the sound of its 126-ton steel hull shuddering through ice grates on the ear like a trash compactor chomping rocks.</p><p>\"For the first couple of years, when you’re smacking up against ice, it’s really nerve-racking. You just feel like that ice is going to pop right through the hull,\" said Eddie Popelas, who served as the tugboat’s engineer from 2002 to 2013 and whose father was at one time the boat’s captain.</p><p>For Capt. Billy Meilicke and Marine Engineer Rich Frizelis — in charge of the tugboat on this morning — the noise is just part of the daily soundtrack that includes the thrum of the 850-horsepower diesel engine and the single blast of the foghorn.</p><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-th/\" target=\"_blank\" ><b>READ MORE</b></a></p><hr><p></p><h4>WATCH: ABOARD AN ICE BREAKER ▶️</h4><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center><div class=\"Enhancement-item\"> <div class=\"ExternalContent-wrapper\" data-embed> <blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUtsLzLDmL-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading\" data-instgrm-version=\"14\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\"><div style=\"padding:16px;\"> <a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUtsLzLDmL-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading\" style=\" background:#FFFFFF; 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font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;\">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style=\"padding: 12.5% 0;\"></div> <div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;\"><div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);\"></div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;\"></div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);\"></div></div><div style=\"margin-left: 8px;\"> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;\"></div> <div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)\"></div></div><div style=\"margin-left: auto;\"> <div style=\" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);\"></div> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);\"></div> <div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);\"></div></div></div> <div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;\"> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;\"></div> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;\"></div></div></a></div></blockquote> <script async src=\"//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js\"></script> </div> </div></div><hr><p></p><h4>YOUR DAILY QUESTION ☕️</h4><p><b>What job in Chicago would you like to try just for one day if you could? Tell us why.</b></p><p><a class=\"Link\" href=\"mailto:newsletters@suntimes.com\" target=\"_blank\" ><i>Respond to this newsletter</i></a><i> (please include your first and last name). We may run your answer in a future newsletter or story.</i></p><hr><p>Thanks for reading the Sun-Times Morning Edition!<br>Got a story you think we missed? <a class=\"Link\" href=\"mailto:newsletters@suntimes.com\" target=\"_blank\" >Email us here.</a></p><hr><p><b>Written and curated by</b>: Matt Moore<br><b>Editor</b>: Eydie Cubarrubia</p><hr><p><i>The Chicago Sun-Times is a nonprofit supported by readers like you. Become a member to make stories like these free and available to everyone. Learn more at </i><a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://newsletters.suntimes.com/t/t-l-wjjitg-l-il/\" target=\"_blank\" ><i>suntimes.com/member</i></a><i>.</i></p>",
  "title": "Mom says she killed in self-defense. Will jury agree?",
  "updatedAt": "2026-02-24T14:24:46.632Z"
}