IN BRIEF : Halas’ Grandchildren Awarded $1

A probate judge awarded $1 to the grandchildren of Chicago Bears founder George Halas, dealing a blow to their claim for $2.5 million in damages from the estate of the NFL patriarch.

Cook County Probate Judge Henry Budzinski made the award Wednesday to Christine Halas, 23, and Stephen Halas, 21, children of Halas’ son, the late George S. (Mugsy) Halas Jr.

Lawyers for the children had argued that the value of the Bears stock the children inherited from their father was damaged in a reorganization of the team in 1981 by Halas Sr.

The children have 30 days to decide on an appeal, said Stephen Fedo, attorney for the Halas Jr. estate, who added that he is disappointed by Budzinski’s ruling.