Digest: Chicago Food Media Round-Up

[ronnie_suburban]

March 22, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Happy 5th Anniversary, Dinner Tonight!...the Good Eating staff marks 5 years of this feature with a "10-recipe celebration."

The flavor of Sicily...Bill Daley explores "Inky nero d'Avola [which] delivers dark fruit taste at good price."

Off The Shelf ... at the International Home & Housewares Show...Renee Enna reports some of the highlights from this recently completed show.

Watercress...Bill Daley with a useful guide.

Embarking on a lost art...in this special to the Tribune, Nicholas Day spends some time cooking from Charcuterie, the latest tome from Michael Ruhlman and Brian Polcyn.

Becoming a bone vivant...Bill Daley reviews Bones: Recipes, History & Lore by Jennifer McLagan.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Kids get cooking in kitchen (sorta)...Jennifer Olvera explains how parents' inclinations toward all things culinary influences the toys their children play with.

Body and soul pampering...Denise I. O'Neal reports on Thyme's upcoming transition to Timo, as well as a few other tidbits of industry news.

Drink up!...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at WhiskyFest (taking place at the Chicago Hyatt Regency), Kiki's Bistro, Shaw's Crab House, Olivetti's and Morton's.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Festivals offer opportunities to immerse yourself in wine...food editor Deborah Pankey previews The Grand Tasting and Wine Auction, coming up next week in Galena, IL.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby throw down the gauntlet and challenge us readers to guess which popular local chef is preparing to open a new place which will focus on craft beers, pork and oysters.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

March 29, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Spring fever...as March exits, Bill Daley takes an eager look at local Spring produce which is, thankfully, just around the corner.

The shipping news...Bill Daley explains why proposed changes in state wine distribution laws have some Illinois winemakers nervous. And, in this sidebar, Navigating the shipping laws, he provides some guidance on how to make sure you end up with the wines you truly want.

Whip potatoes into shape...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan provides tips for creating a perfect batch of 'mashed' potatoes.

Sam's charts a new course on the North Shore...Bill Daley visits the newly-opened Sam's Wines & Spirits in Highland Park, IL.

Providing healthful crop motivates St. Anne grower...Bill Daley (does this man ever sleep?!) visits with Vicki Westerhoff, founder of Genesis Growers farm in St. Anne, Illinois, whose desire for healthy fare was actually the 'genesis' of the farm itself.

Young, hungry and ambitious...in this Special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara visits with the Food Network's David Lieberman, and explains how the rising star keeps things down-to-earth.

The Swiss wedge their way to the top at cheese championship...Robin Mather Jenkins reports from the recently-completed 2006 World Championship Cheese Contest in Madison, WI where in spite of not winning top honors, Wisconsin cheesemakers still captured 18 'best-of-class' honors.

Living lettuce...Renee Enna with a useful guide.

Simply, it's goulash perfection...in this Special to the Tribune, George Erdosh takes a loving look at Goulash and its essential ingredient: Hungarian paprika.

Great Lakes Brewing Co. Dortmunder Gold...Jeff Boda with his Beer of the Month installment.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Dough boy...Mike Thomas visits with Rich Labriola, owner and founder of the premium Labriola Bakery in Alsip, IL.

Energy drinks...Lucio Guerrero provides a partial snapshot of the current market.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Marche, Rock Bottom, Avenues and Fulton Lounge.

Food briefs...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up news about several industry happenings including the upcoming At the Table Chicago dinner being presented by Women Chefs & Restaurateurs and chaired (honorarily) by Gale Gand. Participating chefs include Deann Bayless (Frontera Grill), Carlyn Berghoff (Artistic Events), Susan Maddox (Le Titi de Paris), Patricia Mahoney (Whole Foods), Missy Robbins (Spiaggia) and Heather Terhune (Atwood Cafe and South Water Kitchen).

And from the March 27 edition:

Pastry a sweet job here...Janet Rausa Fuller takes a look at some industry demographics which suggest that while Chicago is a great place to cultivate a career as a pastry chef, it may not be the best place to launch a career in restaurant management.

Sommelier wants dinner to be perfect to a tea...Janet Rausa Fuller visits with Bou Chu, the tea sommelier at NoMI restaurant in the Park Hyatt hotel.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Spring a leek...with Spring produce season just ahead, Laura Bianchi focuses on one of the season's best early offerings. And in this sidebar, Leeks - a primer, she provides useful information on selecting them.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby reveal where chef Dale Levitski, formerly of the now-shuttered Trio Atelier, will be cooking next.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

April 5, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Matzo rules!...As Passover approaches, Bill Daley sings the praises of its most recognizable, iconic food.

Shallots...Joe Gray with a useful guide.

Diet can help ease inflammation woes...JoAnn Milivojevic details the "Anti-Inflammation Diet."

Twinkie, Twinkie, little star...In substantive proof that the truth is often stranger than fiction, Renee Enna provides an amusing look at The Twinkies Cookbook.

Deep, dark chocolate...continuing with the confection theme, Renee Enna examines the dark end of the chocolate spectrum and reports her findings.

A seder lesson...in a special to the Tribune, Peggy Wolff explores the history and significance of bitter herbs and the part they play in the traditional Passover seder.

A friendly debate: What spud is the best masher?...Tribune Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce canvases several experts for their opinions.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Message in his bottles...Maureen Jenkins profiles Bin 36's wine director, Brian Duncan and chats with him about his wine philosophy, wine myths and developing great pairings.

Sweet theater treat...Denise I. O'Neal delivers the week's food news, including details about the newest, food-related production from the Redmoon Theater.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews an upcoming event at Vinci.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Food Network stirs young chef-to-be...Laura Bianchi reports on 18-year-old Phillip Davis, who was inspired to work toward a career in cooking after becoming obsessed with cooking -- via watching FTV -- in the 4th grade.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on yet another morph for Bin 36's Lincolnshire location, which is scheduled to become The Great Lakes Fish House on April 27.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

April 12, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Sushi and Rev. Moon...in this Chicago Tribune Special Report, Monica Eng, Delroy Alexander and David Jackson investigate how Americans' love for sushi actually helps fund this controversial church.

Dressing up...Robin Mather Jenkins with some great ideas for turning ordinary cakes into something special for Easter.

Celebrating the reasons for riesling...Bill Daley takes a look at one of my favorite wine varietals and explains why it's a great match for many Easter meals. Tasting notes are included.

Fun and games...Rick Asa reports on the locally produced web site Spatulatta.com, with which several Chicago area Beard award nominees -- including some very gifted kids -- are linked.

Love, vegetable-style...Renee Enna reviews Vegetable Love, the newest book from Barbara Kafka and Christopher Styler.

Coconut...Donna Pierce with a useful guide.

Take one roast, tie up in knots...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan lays out the finer points of trussing and explains its significance as a "gateway" skill.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Food Network stars hit town...in this somewhat confusingly headlined piece, Denise I. O'Neal previews an upcoming appearance by Sara Moulton who, other than via reruns, is no longer working with the Food Network.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at McCormick & Schmick's, O'Donovan's, Pops For Champagne, Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba, Marshall Field's (Old Orchard), Trucchi Italian Bistro, Fox & Obel and Piece.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Take a step back in time to see how moms used to cook...food editor Deborah Pankey previews the Tales from the Kitchen exhibit, running now through July 23 at the Heritage Gallery in Arlington Heights. Ms. Pankey also details the return of Heinemann's Bakery products to local Jewel stores.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From the Chicago Reader's What's New section...reviews of Terragusto Cafe & Local Market, David Burke's Primehouse and Block 44.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm the rumors and report that Banana Moon (Deerfield) has officially closed, a mere 7 months after it bowed.

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=R=

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

April 19, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Braving the blends...Bill Daley examines the growing popularity of multi-varietal, blended wines.

A sweet serving of East and West...Amelia Levin visits La Patisserie P on Argyle Street.

Off The Shelf...in this week's installment, Renee Enna files a brief review of American Wholefoods Cuisine by Nikki and David Goldbeck.

Mache...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix with a useful guide.

A not so everyday Italian...Virginia Gerst visits with Food Network's Giada De Laurentiis, whose celebrity has surprised not only De Laurentiis herself but just about everyone else as well.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

The power of potatoes...Sandy Thorn Clark with a useful guide; including recipes provided by some Chicago-area chefs.

Wallack's Sola shines...Denise I. O'Neal files a brief review of Carol Wallack's recently-opened Sola.

Food news...among other notes, Denise I. O'Neal reports on what some local restaurants are doing to celebrate Earth Day, coming up this Saturday.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Bank Lane Bistro (Lake Forest), River East Art Center, Tin Fish, Scoozi, Va Pensiero, West Town Tavern and Green Zebra.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Warm breezes mean farmers market season draws near...food editor Deborah Pankey previews the upcoming Farmers Market season as well as a few other upcoming, local events.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From their April 14 edition, the Chicago Reader's first ever Restaurants Issue (in .pdf), which includes an astonishing look at Harold's Fried Chicken by Mike Sula. Also, inside, Heather Kenny visits with Martin Kastner who designed much of Alinea's serviceware. There's also a great piece by Martha Bayne about the dramatic transformation of Kendall College.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Lisa Ko's soon-to-bow pan-Asian, Tamarind, slated to open in May in the South Loop.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

April 26, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

This is a flop?...Virginia Gerst explores those rare moments when a 'mistake' in the kitchen leads to something wonderful.

Egg poaching secret: Leave it alone...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan provides a step-by-step guide to poaching eggs.

Put down the pate and pass the popcorn...Bill Daley explores the relatively uncharted world of snack food and wine pairings. Several local wine professionals share their favorite combinations.

Gourmet food with a Parisian touch...Elizabeth Owens-Schiele with a brief review of La Pomme de Pin in Barrington.

Lemon grass...Robin Mather Jenkins with a useful guide.

Off The Shelf...in this week's installment, Renee Enna gives a shout out to Cipriani's Pasta, which has been made in Chicago Heights since 1929.

Saison Dupont Belgian Farmhouse Ale...Jeff Boda files his Beer of the Month installment.

The wonderful world of tofu...Nancy Maes explores a new exhibit at the Chinese American Museum of Chicago, Tofu: The Wonder Food.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

'Wicked' good...Sandy Thorn Clark visits with the cast of Wicked and finds out what some of their favorite local foods are.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at The Field Museum, Bin 36, Adobo Grill, Salud Tequila Lounge and Cafe 36.

Food briefs...among other news, Denise I. O'Neal previews an upcoming Balsamic degustation dinner by chef Tony Mantuano at Spiaggia.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Bye-bye Betty Points. End near for longtime loyalty program...among other news, food editor Deborah Pankey reports on the upcoming end of the Betty Crocker Points program, which has been in existence since 1931.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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In the April 21 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section, Mike Sula reports on Matsumoto's recent tranformation into Chiyo.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm the worst-kept food secret in Chicago: Paul Kahan plans to open a gastropub which will focus on Craft beers and pork. Yum!

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

May 3, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

2006 farmers markets...the Tribune's official list, compiled by Elizabeth Owens-Schiele.

Growing a market...fresh on the heels of Chicago's foie gras ban, Robin Mather Jenkins visits Milwaukee's year-round Public Market and provides further evidence of how Chicago, for all its restaurant glories, still lags behind many other cities when it comes to the basics.

Fava beans...Bill Daley with a useful guide.

Shoring up your bones...JoAnn Milivojevic reports on how nutrition can help fend off osteoporosis.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Breakfast with Ina...Lezli Bitterman spends some time with the proprietor of what is arguably one of Chicago's most over-rated restaurants, Ina Pinkney of Ina's.

Spice girl...Maureen Jenkins spends the day spice shopping with Kristine Subido, executive chef at Wave in the W Hotel.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Signature Lounge, Binny's, O'Donovan's, Durty Nellie's, Vinci, Shaw's Crab House, Le Titi de Paris and Globe Pub.

Wild time...among other food news, Denise I. O'Neal previews RampFest, coming up this Monday at Timo.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

A mover and a shaker...in her Cook of the Week installment, Laura Bianchi profiles Schley Sisson Brandt who, over the course of multiple moves over the years, has successfully used her culinary skills to help herself fit into her new communities.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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In the April 28 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section, Edward McClelland takes a look at Lake Side Cafe, a vegetarian restaurant in Rogers Park.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Michael Foley, the man who was Printer's Row, has resurfaced -- in the role of consultant -- at Le Petit Paris in Streeterville, where he will slowly but surely rebuild the menu.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

May 10, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The Korean challenge...Bill Daley takes on the difficult task of pairing Korean food and wine. A recipe from Joyce Goldstein and tasting notes are included.

Is this polenta . . . or just mush?...in this special to the Tribune, Peggy Wolff explores just some of the glories of this versatile, corn-based product.

Taking a fancy to gourmet tastes...Robin Mather Jenkins reports from the recently-completed Fancy Foods show which took place at McCormick Place earlier this week.

Taking a 'cue from the East...Robin Mather Jenkins with a brief review of The Asian Grill by Corinne Trang.

A spirited departure...Rick Asa spends some time at the newly-minted North Shore Distillery in Lake Bluff, which is the only operation of its kind in Illinois.

How to conquer all muffin...James P. DeWan files his weekly Prep School installment.

Sorrel...Renee Enna with a useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

The power of pink...Sandy Thorn Clark with a special take on some ways to celebrate Mother's Day.

New products cater to harried cooks...food editor Sue Ontiveros reports on some of the new convenience products that were on display at the recently-completed Food Marketing Institute show which took place in Chicago earlier this week.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Fixture, Scoozi!, Nacional 27 and Shaw's Crab House.

Food news...among other tidbits, Denise I. O'Neal previews Art Smith's upcoming appearance in Oak Brook.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Wake Mom up with homemade coffeecake...with Mother's Day coming up on Sunday, food editor Deborah Pankey makes it clear that when it comes to mom, it's the thought that counts.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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The May 5 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section offers a useful guide -- The Final Days of Foie Gras -- on where to source the delicacy before the ban goes into effect.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby chat with Gael Greene just long enough to remind everyone that her current irrelevance is not only a good thing, it's also well-deserved.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

May 17, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Celebrating ramps, for good reason...Robin Mather Jenkins reports from Timo Restaurant's recently-completed Rampfest, signifying the unofficial start of produce season in Chicago.

Elevated flavors...Bill Daley explores the positive effects that growing at high altitude can have on grapes and the wines which are made from them.

Many nominees, just a few winners...Stevenson Swanson reports from the recently-completed, NY-centric Beard awards, where most of the Chicago restaurant nominees were passed over.

Reflections of a culture...the Tribune's foreign correspondent, Hugh Dellios, visits Mexico City's bustling La Merced market and examines how its diversity reflects the vast and varied influences on Mexican culture.

Kohlrabi...Renee Enna with a useful guide.

Turning a home pantry into a well-oiled machine...Test Kitchen director Donna Pierce provides some useful tips.

Off The Shelf...in this week's installment, Renee Enna gives a shout out to the Gold Coast's Sarah's Pastries and Candies, which is now offering customized treats.

When fats are good...Janet Helm discusses the nutritional benefits of some fats in our diets. Some additional information is provided in this sidebar: A matter of balance.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Controversy on the menu...Sandy Thorn Clark recaps Chicago's foie gras skirmish, exposes alderman Joe Moore as the ignoramus that he is and reports on what some local chefs are doing to "fight the power."

Foie gras ban unites chefs against politicians...Janet Rausa Fuller details the political battle taking place in the wake of the city's recently-passed Foie Gras ban.

'Pure passion' fuels chef's winning drive...Janet Rausa Fuller profiles Chicago chef John Gresh who will be competing in the Bocuse d'Or USA National Selection, which is part of the National Restaurant Association show taking place in town, beginning on Saturday.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Bella Lounge, Mas, O'Donovan's Pub, Motel Bar and Knightsbridge Wine Shoppe.

Country singer launches chicken products line... from the land of the bizarre . . . Denise I. O'Neal takes at country music star Dwight Yoakam's new line of Chicken snacks.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal previews an upcoming appearance by food network 'celebrity' Cat Cora of whom Anthony Bourdain recently said "would hump a fire hydrant" to get herself on tv.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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The May 12 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restauants section identifies 2 dozen great spots for brunch.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that after 3 1/2 years, Lincoln Park's Menagerie will soon from morph from contemporary American to neighborhood.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

May 24, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Under the weather...Bill Daley goes to great lengths to make sure that bad weather won't completely obliterate your holiday food plans. He even gets some great advice from our friends over at the LTH Forums.

A brave brat/wine pairing...Bill Daley comes up with pairing that is so outrageous, it might just be perfect.

Fast food that's good and fresh...Jennifer Carnig visits Chow in Elmhurst.

Foie gras or faux gras?...in the wake of the city council's jack-booted ban on foie gras, the Good Eating staff offer some clever work-arounds for law-abiding lovers of the delicacy.

Ghee whiz...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan offers tips and technique for clarifying butter.

History on the table...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix reports from New York, the site of the Feeding Desire exhibit currently taking place at the Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum. The exhibit explores the history and evolution of tools used for eating and preparing food.

White asparagus...Donna Pierce with a useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Food for thought...Dave Hoekstra profiles Gael Greene who was in town to promote her new book.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Vic's Classic Italian Steakhouse, Poplar Creek Country Club and Red Light.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up the week's industry news which includes a couple of blurbs about programs being offered by Chicago's Green City Market.

From the May 21 edition:

Calif. chef wins here, will seek world title...Janet Rausa Fuller reports from the Bocuse d'Or national selection; part of the National Restaurant Show, which took place in town and wrapped up earlier this week.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Beef up your cookout...food editor Deborah Pankey provides some useful tips for holiday cookouts.

He takes a stick-to-your-ribs approach to food...Leah Zeldes profiles Chicagoland native, chef Daniel Sikorski, who's taken over the kitchen at the Birch River Grill in Arlington Heights (DoubleTree Hotel).

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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The May 19 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section offers brief reviews of Ole Ole, Avenue M and Spotlight Grill.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on Wishbone's plans to permanently expand into Berwyn, this July. They also take a well-deserved poke at Frank Bruni.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

May 31, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Stirring words...just ahead of the annual Printers Row Book Fair, Bill Daley examines the ever-growing popularity of food books.

Good Eating stage serves up a tasty lineup...a schedule of events that will take place on the Good Eating stage at the Printers Row Book Fair this weekend.

"The Best Light Recipe"...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix reviews the lastest release from the team at America's Test Kitchen.

The gift of a lifetime...Bill Daley shares a brilliant idea about how to gift that very special newlywed couple.

On the road, still...Bill Daley spends some time at Manny's with Jane and Michael Stern, who were in town recently to promote their new book, a memoir entitled Two for the Road.

Premium market...in this special to the Tribune, Kerry Neville explores the booming Organic produce market and tries to determine if the benefits of organic produce are worth the premium prices.

Sprecher Maibock...Jerald O'Kennard commandeers the Beer of the Month installment.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Sample fruits (and veggies) of farmers' labor...Bill Cunniff rounds up the list of Chicagoland Farmers Markets for 2006, which is organized by region.

Fresh inspiration...Jennifer Olvera takes a closer look at some local Farmers Markets, their vendors and their offerings. And in this related piece, provides a primer for some of the early season's best offerings; Expand palates with new flavors.

Timeline of what's in season...a useful, month-by-month guide to produce at its peak.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up the week's industry news and happenings.

From the May 30 edition:

Coca-Cola mixing up specialty drinks...Janet Fuller reports on Coca Cola's new partnership with the CIA, in which the 2 will work together to develop specialty beverages.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

An Irish cook finds his place in an English pub...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Melissa Allen profiles CHIC graduate Jack Byrne, who is currently the executive chef at The Firkin & Fox in Glen Ellyn.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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The May 26 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section includes their annual guide to area Farmers Markets.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Erba, a new spot focused on northern Italian, by the folks who are also behind Brioso. It's slated to open at the end of June, just a block or so away from Brioso on north Lincoln Avenue.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

June 7, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

An edge, but not cutting...Robin Mather Jenkins spends the day with Anthony Bourdain, as they go in search of a decent Chicago-style hotdog.

War of the wines II...on the 30th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, Bill Daley reports that the rivalry between French and U.S. wines is as fierce and controversial as ever.

Smoky sensation...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan provides some guidance on how to use your indoor smoker.

Number cruncher...Robin Mather Jenkins visits with North Barrington resident Harry Balzer, who, through his company, tracks and provides statistical data on food trends.

Chervil...Bill Daley with a useful guide.

Mistakes yield timely reminders...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce stresses the importance of temperature, when it comes to food safety.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Show offers healthy items for your sweet tooth...Janet Rausa Fuller reports from the All-Candy Expo, taking place this week at McCormick Place.

Wine and women...Sandy Thorn Clark tracks the ever-expanding role of women in the wine industry.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews events coming up this week at The Cadillac Room at Soldier Field, Cafe Selmarie and Vinci.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up the week's industry news, which includes a blurb about what See's Candies is doing as one of the official sponsers of the Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of Pharoahs exhibit, currently on display at the Field Museum.

From the June 5 edition:

Mini-iceberg lettuce the next big thing?...Janet Rausa Fuller previews 'Iceberg babies,' which are currently being rolled out for the foodservice market.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

The days of wine and roses, and trees, and grass...food editor Deborah Pankey blurbs out a few upcoming wine events, some timely tips for entertaining and new pasta server that she favors.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

Varoom! Chef relaxes by riding on his motorcycle...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, an unnamed chef (pretty sure it's Mark Payne), who apparently cooks at the Ritz-Carlton Dining Room, is profiled by an unnamed reporter.

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The June 2 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section includes their annual guide to Al Fresco dining.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby go "One on One" (shouldn't that be "Two on One"? ) with Alan Richman, in a very enlightening interview.

=====

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<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

June 14, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Oak falls down...Bill Daley reports on the backlash against overly oakey Chardonnays and how the market is changing in response to it.

Entertaining in the neighborhood...Jennifer Carnig files a brief review of Provenance Food & Wine in Logan Square.

Real Men cook--and inspire...Donna Pierce takes a look at the annual Real Men Cook Celebration which has been gaining steam since its inception in 1990.

Carrots...Joe Gray with a useful guide.

Shrine to the sea...Michael A. Lev reports from Tsukiji Central Wholesale Market in Tokyo, the world's biggest fish market.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

How to stretch your food dollar...Leah A. Zeldes goes 'inside the cart' and provides a variety of strategies for extending the grocery budget without sacrificing on quality.

Sweet parade...Sandy Thorn Clark recaps the All-Candy Expo which took place in town last week.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal reports on chef Jimmy Bannos' continuing efforts to aid relief in New Orleans.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

French chef owes it all to Grandma with an assist from Michael Jordan...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes (who also has a piece [listed above] in this week's Sun-Times) visits with Martial Noguier, who has been the driving culinary force behind one sixtyblue since 2001.

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The June 9 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section reports that Chuck's Southern Comforts Cafe, in Burbank has reopened, following the fire which closed them down last September.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby chat with Alinea's soon-to-be-former pastry chef, Alex Stupak, who will be moving to WD-50 in NYC at the end of July.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

June 21, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Glory days...Bill Daley reports on the glorious feeling midwestern chefs experience when they -- and the produce they love -- come out of hibernation for the season.

Sticking with it...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan provides tips for producing optimal skewers.

Savoring the Southwest...in the Bookshelf feature, Robin Mather Jenkins focuses on a trio of new books which focus on Southwestern cuisine.

Food facts worth digesting...Renee Enna takes a look at Lorraine Bodger's Eater's Digest: 400 Delectable Readings About Food and Drink.

The power of oak...in a self-rebuttal to last week's piece about the fading popularity of oakey whites, Bill Daley explains that when it is applied judiciously, oak can transform a wine from ordinary to transcendant.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Sweet dreams...Maureen Jenkins spends some time at Laura Cid Perea's Bombon Bakery in Pilsen.

Burger sandwiched in donut is hit at ballpark...Dave Hoekstra reports on the much-ballyhooed Krispy Kreme Cheeseburger, also known as "Baseball's Best Burger," which is served at GCS Ballpark in Sauget, IL.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Salud Tequila Lounge, Peppercorns, Galleria Marchetti, Scoozi, Zapatista Cantina, Opera, Flight, Stained Glass Wine Bar, Carnivale, and Le Titi de Paris.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal wraps up the week's industry news.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Blame mom: She snagged him to put dinner on the table...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah Zeldes profiles chef Dave van Dornick who has been cooking at Don's Fish Market Grill & Tavern in Skokie for the past 16 years.

Homemade treats help you beat the heat...food editor Deborah Pankey reveals how to beat the heat with home-made, frozen treats, many of which evoke memories of childhood.

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The June 16 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section features a 'What's New' round up of "Fancy Pizza, Small Plates and Small Batches."

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that after 17 years, Lombard's Bistro Banlieue will 'close' at the end of July and reopen with a new theme (American fine dining) and a new name (still undetermined).

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

June 28, 2006...

Congratulations go out to several Chicago journalists on being named Finalists for the 2006 Association of Food Journalists awards in the "Circulation over 350,001" category:

BEST NEWSPAPER FOOD SECTION

Carol Mighton Haddix, Chicago Tribune

FOOD NEWS REPORTING

Mark Caro, Chicago Tribune

FOOD FEATURE REPORTING

Beverly Levitt writing in the Chicago Sun-Times

SERIES, SPECIAL SECTIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

Carol Mighton Haddix, Chicago Tribune

Winners in each category will be named in September.

=====

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Fried to perfection...Robin Mather Jenkins provides a terrific walk-through on how to cook "superb" fried chicken.

A pairing with pluck...once you cook up that perfect batch of fried chicken, you'll need something to drink with it. Bill Daley provides some guidance in this direction, which includes tasting notes.

He wants to bring juustoleipa to the world...in this special to the Tribune, Nicholas Day focuses on Finnish cheese Juustoleipa and the man who hopes to save it from obscurity.

Dill...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix with a useful guide.

Ayinger Brau-Weiss...Jerald O'Kennard with the Beer of the Month installment.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Ald. Burke seeks ban on trans fats...Fran Spielman reports that Ed Burke hasn't finished his attempts to have Chicago's city government intervene in what folks here can and cannot eat.

Getting a Taste of Chicago...Sandy Thorn Clark previews Taste's 26th incarnation, which will take place from June 30 - July 9.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Cafe 36, Salud, Le Titi de Paris, Le Passage and J Bar.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal previews the Food Network Challenge, which will take place at Taste of Chicago, which begins on Friday June 30.

From the June 23 edition:

Interest percolating for rare cup of joe...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on a truly rare variety of coffee being offered by Intelligentsia Roasting Works.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Baked beans: The all-American summer side...John Anderson, chef at Adelle’s Fine American Fare in Wheaton, describes why baked beans are truly a comfort food and he provides his family's recipe for them, as well.

East Dundee baker says she's up to the challenge...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles Diane Ahrens, owner of Piece-A-Cake Bakery in East Dundee, who will be competing the Food Network Challenge, taking place at Taste of Chicago, which begins this Friday.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

In the June 23 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section, LTH'er David Hammond pens the 4th installment of the Beyond the Burrito series, which focuses on Veracruz, Mexico.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby distinguish themselves as the first reporters in town who actually know the exact date on which the city's upcoming foie gras ban will take effect: August 22.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

July 5, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Feeding a need, filling a void...Brian McCormick, in this special to the Tribune, profiles Lisa Gershenson and her catering company J&L Food Services, Inc., which is giving back to the community in a variety of innovative ways.

A foundation for blessings...in this special to the Tribune, Maureen Abood reports on the cultural signficance of pita in Lebanon. Also included are recipes and local sources.

Culinary museum aims to boost city's reputation...Jennifer Carnig reports on the local chapter of the American Culinary Federation's plans to build a culinary museum and Chicago chefs' hall of fame, and name Charlie Trotter as its inaugural inductee.

To brine is divine...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan extols the virtues of brining.

Mealtime help comes naturally...Elizabeth Schiele profiles Mindful Meals in Arlington Heights.

Off The Shelf...in this week's installment, Renee Enna reports that Labriola bread is now available at several area Farmers Markets, both in the city and suburbs.

Arugula...Joe Gray with a useful guide.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming food events at Bin 36, Ben Pao, Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club and Di Pescara.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up the week's food news, including recent roll-outs by Mon Ami Gabi, Tin Fish, Blue Water Grill, Le Colonial Piazza Bella, Zealous and Clark-Coutre Gourmet of LaGrange.

From the June 30th edition:

Kids' creations spice up the Web -- and Taste...Miriam Di Nunzio checks in with Beard winning sisters Isabella and Olivia Gerasole of Evanston (10 and 8 years-old respectively) and finds out what's cooking at their award-winning web site: www.spatulatta.com.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef treats diners to fresh herbs, edible flowers...in this week's Chef du Jourinstallment, Melissa Allen profiles Cesar Najera, executive chef at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle.

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In the June 30 edition of the Chicago Reader, Kabir Hamid profiles Pat Bertoletti, a student a Kendall College who also puts in some time on the competitive eating circuit.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site load slowly but they do eventually load.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

July 12, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The original non-stick pan...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix sings the praises of the wok.

Terroir need not terrify...Bill Daley explains the basics of terroir as it relates to wine.

Eating your way to lower cholesterol...nutritionist Janet Helm lays out some potentially useful advice.

When passion runs cold...Renee Enna files a brief review of A Passion for Ice Cream: 95 Recipes for Fabulous Desserts by Emily Luchetti.

Rapini...Renee Enna with a useful guide.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Dining & driving: Local haunts along Route 66...Dave Hoekstra tracks some of the best food finds along this legendary U.S. Highway route.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Vinci, Fixture and Va Pensiero.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal files her weekly round-up of industry happenings, programs and roll-outs.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Sri Lanka native followed his dream; decided to stay in U.S....in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes profiles Chicagoland restaurant veteran, Chef Eardley Firth, who currently runs the kitchen at Pete Miller's in Wheeling.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

From the July 7 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Paradise in an Auto Garage...a profile of Samad Ahmadi and his Paradise Restaurant, on North Broadway.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site occasionally load slowly but they do eventually load.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm that -- at least for now -- Ann Sather's in Andersonville has closed.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

July 19, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The skinny on grilling...Robin Mather Jenkins checks in with several experts and reports on how "sensible choices and savvy techniques can bring awesome flavor--and nutrition--to outdoor cooking."

Is this Napa? Or is this Yountville?...Bill Daley helps to make sense of the American Viticultural Area delineations (AVAs) and explains the potential downsides of their use as well.

Fresh tips for the farmers market...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce provides some useful and seasonal advice.

In pie heaven...in this week's Prep School installment, James. P. DeWan walks us through the basics of making a quality pie.

Wordplay with wine...Renee Enna visits WineStyles Main Street at Seven Bridges in Woodridge.

Culinary contests heat up...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara recaps 2 cooking contests which recently took place in town.

Gooseberries...Joe Gray with a useful guide.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Raising the steaks...Leah A. Zeldes files a terrific, comprehensive report on the Chicago steak scene and reveals what various restaurants and butchers are doing to distinguish themselves. Recipes are included.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Webster's Wine Bar, Wabash Tap and Rhapsody.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal files her weekly round-up of industry happenings, programs and roll-outs.

From the July 18th edition:

Early deaths tied to lack of grocery stores...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on a startling new study, commissioned by LaSalle Bank, which concludes that "Chicagoans who live in areas with scant grocery stores and many fast-food restaurants are more likely to die prematurely and at greater rates from diabetes, cancer or heart disease . . ."

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

'Big Sky Cooking' brings Montana to your table...food editor Deborah Pankey takes an in-depth look at Big Sky Cooking by Meredith Brokaw and Ellen Wright.

Ravinia executive chef blends love for food with music...This week's Chef du Jour segment profiles chef Matt Del Regno.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From the July 14 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

What's New: Affordable Eclectic Eats, Ambitious Chinese Surf and Turf, and a Modern Cucina...reviews of newcomers Treat, Mulan and Fiorentino's Cucina Italiana.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site occasionally load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Zocalo, a new, small plates venture by Edgar and Marcos Castañeda, will open in the former Chilpancingo space on July 31.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

July 26, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Truth or consequences...Robin Mather Jenkins reviews Marion Nestle's latest book, What to Eat: An Aisle-by-Aisle Guide to Savvy Food Choices and Good Eating.

Churning it out...Renee Enna and Lisa Schumacher rate 3 ice cream makers which each price out at $50 or under.

Ancient past, uncertain future...Evan Osnos visits Shanghai's centuries-old Da Jing market, which is caught between tradition and a national push toward modernization.

Vintage of the century? Already?...Bill Daley weighs in on 2005 Bordeaux wines, which many 'experts' are already identifying as the vintage of the century.

Currants...Robin Mather Jenkins with a useful guide.

Goose Island Summertime...Jerald O'Kennard with the Beer of the Month installment.

This book might make you hungry for more...Renee Enna files a brief review of Eater's Digest: 400 Delectable Readings About Food and Drink by Lorraine Bodger.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Grilling with fruits & veggies...continuing her systematic upgrade of the Sun-Times' food section, Leah A. Zeldes files this useful and timely piece about grilling fruits and vegetables, to which several area chefs and produce mavens contributed.

Sioux Falls gets a tasty dose of Chicago soul...Dave Hoekstra takes a look at Soul Affair in Sioux Falls, SD, which is helmed by a former Chicagoan.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Piece, Hyatt Regency, Bravo, Schaefer's Lawry's The Prime Rib, Geja's Cafe, Brett's Cafe Americain, Cafe 36 and Zapatista Cantina.

Food News...Denise I. O'Neal previews a big, upcoming event at Chicago's Green City Market.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Suburban native brings touch of Spain to cooking...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, the ubiquitous Leah A. Zeldes profiles Libertyville native Christian Eckmann who has worked, for the last 3 1/2 years, as the chef de cuisine at Ambria.

French fries take walk on wild side...Jamie Sotonoff looks at french fries and some of the more unusual forms in which they are offered around town.

=====

From the July 21 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Ice Cream, Hold the Beer...Nicholas Day takes a 'fresh' look at the root beer float. Also, an interesting round-up of some of the area's best ice cream offerings.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site occasionally load slowly but they do eventually load.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby chat with Franco Gianni (Rushmore, Tank Sushi, Sushi Wabi) about his newest venture, Adesso, a family-friendly Italian spot slated to bow in Boys Town in mid-September.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

August 2, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Move over, Napa...Bill Daley reports on how Michigan winemakers hope to compete with California producers.

Whisked away...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan instructs on how to successfully create emulsions and apply them in your everyday cooking.

The scoop on gelato...Renee Enna visits with "ice cream consultant" Malcolm Stogo, and gets some tips for home ice cream makers.

Bigger and better...Robin Mather Jenkins reviews The Big Book of Outdoor Cooking & Entertaining by Cheryl & Bill Jamison.

Off the shelf...in this week's installment, Renee Enna gives a shout out to local ice cream maker, Lezza, which is based in Bellwood.

Crash course...Robin Mather Jenkins chats with Alton Brown who is promoting his newest Food Network series, Feasting on Asphalt, which debuted last week.

Watermelon...Donna Pierce with a useful guide.

Baking for the future...in this special to the Tribune, JoAnn Milivojevic explores how Serbian baking traditions are passed between generations at the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in Hobart, IN.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

In the kitchen with Charlie...hours before their 19th Anniversary celebration dinner, Janet Rausa Fuller trails in the kitchen at Charlie Trotter's, where some heavy-hitting chefs were helping out.

Family affair...Maureen Jenkins visits with entertainment "expert" B. Smith.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Vinci, Adobo Grill, The Chopping Block and Di Pescara.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal with the week's industry news, programs and roll-outs.

From the July 31st edition:

Turning your table into the chef's table...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on what various restaurants around town are doing to increase the drama factor in their dining rooms.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

He has a taste for 'clean and fresh' cuisine...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes profiles chef Randy Waidner who, after spending 15 years working for the Weber Grill restaurants, is now the executive chef at Entourage on American Lane in Schaumburg.

Chipotles dish out the heat in new barbecue sauce...food editor Deborah Pankey sings the praises of the chipotle pepper, which is becoming a mainstream grocery item.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

From the July 28 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Mexican Tapas...David Hammond takes a look at Chicago's newest hot spot, Sol de Mexico, which is run by Carlos Tello, the soon-to-be brother in law of former Rick Bayless protege Geno Bahena (now closed Ixcapuzalco, Chilpancingo). Also profiled are 24 other family-run places in the city.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site occasionally load slowly but they do eventually load.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby chat with chef Takashi Yagihashi (Ambria, Tribute, Okada), who will be returning to Chicago with a 'small plates' restaurant sometime next summer.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

August 9, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

2006 Cooking School Roundup...the Tribune's annual list, complied by Christina Biggs.

Basic training...Bill Daley delivers 10 tips from the pros, including Grant Achatz, which will help you convert your kitchen into a "culinary boot camp."

Very fresh, and very French...Jennifer Carnig reviews Floriole Bakery in Lincoln Park.

Guilty pleasures remade...in this special to the Tribune, Brian McCormick reviews Fast Food Fix: 75+ Amazing Recipe Makeovers of Your Fast Food Restaurant Favorites, by Devin Alexander.

Savory...Robin Mather Jenkins with a useful guide.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Kitchen confidential...Sandy Thorn Clark trails a few local restaurant folks and learns how they've outfitted their home kitchens. And, in this related piece, Cooking comes easy when you're well-equipped, she delivers some additional information.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Grace O'Malley's Restaurant & Pub, China Grill, BIN 36, Carnivale, Motel Bar and VTK.

Late-night cooking class helps singles come together...Denise I. O'Neal delivers the news about this series of classes as well as several other industry events, offerings and roll-outs.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Dabble in something different...food editor Deborah Pankey sings the praises of the $35-billion Specialty foods market.

In this week's Chef du Jour installment, Mike Michaelson profiles Clinton Del Marcelle and Nicholas Klug who are co-executive chefs at Grey Rock, the fine dining establishment at the Heidel House Resort in Green Lake, WI.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

From the August 4th edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Reports on 3 recently-transformed spots on the north side as well as a round-up of 25 highly rated (7.5/10 or higher) places in Lakeview.

Note: .pdf pages at the Reader's web site occasionally load slowly but they do eventually load.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on what's coming next for Tru -- and the plans definitely do include Laurent Gras.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

August 16, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Putting out fires...Bill Daley finds the right wines to pair up with fiery cuisine like Thai. Tasting notes are included.

Fillet your way to dinner...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan instructs on the useful technique of butterflying whole fish.

Keeping knives sharp will hone your cooking skills...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce explains the importance of maintaining sharp knives in the kitchen and lists a few local places that provide knife-sharpening service.

Green plums...Nneka McGuire with a useful guide.

Shaking our salt addiction...Janet Helm reports that too much salt can be dangerous. And, in spite of some recent studies, there are some experts who believe that's true even for those who don't already suffer from hypertension.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Take your cake class -- and eat it, too!...Leah A. Zeldes reports on how Chicago has become an international hub for those wanting to learn confectionary arts and visits with those providing the training to obtain the details.

2006 culinary school class listings...The Sun-Times' annual index, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal.

Food News: Daisy Martinez joins benefit...Denise I. O'Neal reports the details.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Kiki's Bistro, Motel Bar, Geja's Cafe, Webster Wine Bar and Cuatro.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

He serves only the best for celebs, country club members...In this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes profiles Certified Master Chef Derin Moore who, as Executive Chef at Medinah Country Club, will serve thousands this week at the 88th PGA Championship, which will take place there beginning on Thursday.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

From the August 11th edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Martha Bayne visits Mundial Cocina Mestiza in Pilsen. Also provided is a listing of restaurants in Pilsen and Little Village.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that the long-awaited, gastropub from Paul Kahan (Blackbird, Avec) and co. will be located at 845 W. Fulton St., as the lease has been signed. No word yet on an official opening date but the team is hoping to bow "eight to nine months" from now.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

August 23, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Mixing it up with wine...Bill Daley reports on those dog-days-of-summer ocassions when "mixing" with wines can actually be a good thing. Recipes for refreshing Sangrias and Spritzers are provided.

Back to school: Students will see a food makeover...as if going back to school weren't already hard enough, Janet Helm reports on how schools will alter their cafeteria offerings with an eye toward healthier eating.

Ethics at the table...Robin Mather Jenkins reviews The Ethical Gourmet by Jay Weinstein.

Truth in vodka...Joe Gray reports on the "new breed of infused spirits [which] instill natural flavors with optimal effects."

Brit hit...Brian McCormick visits with 15-year-old cookbook author Sam Stern, who hails from Yorkshire, England, before his recent appearance at Barnes & Noble in Skokie. Stern is in the U.S. to promote his first book Cooking Up a Storm: The Teen Survival Cookbook, which was big hit when it was originally published in Britain last year.

Okra...Donna Pierce with a useful guide.

London's larder...Carolyn McGuire visits the Borough Market in London which is " . . . a reflection of Londoners' growing interest in food and concern about its provenance."

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Salad surprises: hidden calories abound...Sandy Thorn Clark goes 'inside the salad' and reports that they're not always as healthy as they appear to be.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Parlor, Harry Caray's, David Burke's Primehouse, O'Donovan's, Flight and Carnivale.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal reports on, among other topics, an upcoming appearance next Monday by WLS TV's Steve Dolinsky at An Evening to Savor, an fundraising event at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, which will benefit Rush North Shore Medical Center.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef brings 30 years of experience to Cafe Amano...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Melissa Allen profiles Marco Conte of Café Amano in Elmhurst.

Little chef...Beverly Levitt points out, from personal experience, how cooking can not only contribute to the development of our children but also how it can help bring families closer together.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From the August 18th edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The focus is on newcomers, as Martha Bayne takes a look at Erba, Il Covo and Saint’s Alp Teahouse. Additionally, blurb reviews of of 25 other, new spots are also provided, including a quick look at Uncle John's Barbecue by LTH Forum frontman, Gary Wiviott.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby that the former crew at the late Joel Findlay's 302 West in Geneva will open Niche, their collective restaurant -- and homage to their former boss -- on August 30.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

August 30, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Go ahead, rub it in!...as part of the Tribune's SIZZLE & SMOKE A SUMMER SEND-OFF SPECIAL SECTION, Rick Asa files this special in which he tracks spice rubs, from their earliest days to their current incarnations. Recipes are included.

Grilling wizardry applies to veggies too...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan provides some useful tips and techniques for making the most of grilled vegetables.

Getting saucy...Bill Daley explains why Riesling and Rose wines are often good matches for BBQ.

When grilling is an inside job...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce explore some options for grilling after the outdoor season is "over."

Mini tomatoes...Joe Gray with a useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Savvier sandwiches...with the school year upon us, Esther J. Cepeda lays out some easy ways to convert the ordinary into something special.

Gulf Coast comfort food...Dave Hoekstra profiles the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, which among other parts of its mission is dedicated to recognizing how food provides comfort in the wake of natural disasters.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Schaefer's, Sam's Wines (H.P.) and Cafe 36 (not to be confused with BIN 36).

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal with the 411 on the week's Restaurant industry events, programs and roll-outs.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Something fishy about Harry Caray's chef...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes interviews chef Paul Katz, a 20-year industry veteran who's been with Harry Caray's Restaurants since 2003.

Some healthy advice for packing lunches with less fat, sugar...with the school year upon us, food editor Deborah Pankey provides some timely guidance.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From the August 25th edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Nicholas Day profiles Jonathan Suratt, a Chicago beer maven who launched beermapping.com last fall.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Blackbird's head pastry chef Tara Lane is leaving the restaurant and taking a position with Common Threads. The Dish Duo also fill in the blanks on a couple of other stories, which we reported here and here, last week.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

September 6, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Supermarket love...a while back, the Tribune asked readers to nominate their favorite area supermarkets -- and the results are in.

A classic sandwich, all grown up...Bill Daley takes a cue from Alinea's Grant Achatz and has a "PB&J moment" of his own, explaining that "wine can go with nearly everything." Tasting notes are included.

Samuel Adams Summer Ale...Jerald O'Kennard files the Beer of the Month installment.

Spice up disease-fighting ability...in this special to the Tribune, nutritionist Kerry Neville explains that all spices are not created equally and that ". . . certain herbs and spices are chock-full of beneficial compounds that may help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes and even Alzheimer's."

Cranberry beans...Robin Mather Jenkins with a useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

World chow right now...Maureen Jenkins (re)discovers Chicago's fantastically diverse ethnic markets.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Daley Bicentennial Plaza, Binny's (on Grand), Carlucci (Downers Grove), Zapatista, Courtright's, DiPescara, Scoozi, Shaw's Crab House, The Chopping Block and Lucky Strike Lanes.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal delivers news of the week's restaurant industry happenings, programs and roll-outs, including the upcoming Supper in the Country benefit, in support of Chicago's Green City Market.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Sinfully good crop...food editor Deborah Pankey can't wait to take advantage of this year's local apple crop; predicted to be especially bountiful.

Chef Gary brings a touch of style to Gary...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Mike Michaelson interviews Gary Sanders, chef and owner of the toney Miller Bakery Café in Gary, IN.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From the September 1st edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The focus is on sushi. Brief reviews of Tokyo 21, Aria and Triad Sushi Lounge are provided, as is a list of other sushi venues which scored 7.5 or higher, according to The Reader's raters.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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