Good afternoon, and happy Friday! I’m excited to finally catch up on some of the year’s best movies. Here’s what else you need to know today:
1. CPS CEO Pedro Martinez Faces Potential Firing and Lawsuit: Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez has threatened legal action against the Board of Education and its members following a hastily called meeting scheduled for Friday night where his dismissal is anticipated. Sources suggest the board is leaning towards firing Martinez without cause, triggering a clause in his contract that would keep him in his position for six months. There’s discussion of appointing Mayor Brandon Johnson’s choice for board president, Sean Harden, as co-CEO during this period to limit Martinez’s influence. This maneuver could potentially allow Johnson and the Chicago Teachers Union to advance stalled initiatives, including a new union contract, a pension payment shift, and a short-term loan to address a budget deficit. [WBEZ/Chicago Sun-Times]
2. Elected Officials Demand Changes in Domestic Violence Court: Nearly 30 Chicago-area elected officials have signed a letter demanding Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans permanently reassign Judge Thomas Nowinski. Their request follows Nowinski’s decision to release a man accused of choking and attempting to kidnap his wife, who subsequently allegedly murdered her. The officials also want a review of pretrial services at the Domestic Violence Courthouse. This incident happened one month after Lacramioara Beldie was allegedly killed by her husband, Constantin Beldie, who had been previously charged with assault and had a protective order filed against him. Following the murder, Nowinski was removed from domestic violence cases due to “anonymous threats,” but no further updates have been provided. [Chicago Sun-Times]
3. Illinois Launches First Drive-Thru DMV Kiosk: Illinois’ first 24/7 drive-thru DMV kiosk opened in Lombard, offering services such as license and registration renewal and license plate sticker acquisition. Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias stated this improves customer experience and adds convenience. More kiosks are planned for Chicago and across the state in the coming 18 months, supplementing the fifteen kiosks recently installed in grocery stores. [Chicago Sun-Times]
4. Chicago Starbucks Workers Strike Over Failed Negotiations: Starbucks workers in Chicago, Seattle, and Los Angeles are staging a five-day strike due to stalled contract negotiations. The union cites the company’s proposed economic package, which includes no immediate wage increase for unionized baristas and only a 1.5% increase in future years, in contrast to the CEO’s potential $100 million first-year salary. Starbucks claims the strike has had no significant impact on operations. [AP/Chicago Sun-Times]
5. Riot Fest 2025 Tickets on Sale: Three-day passes for Riot Fest 2025, celebrating its 20th anniversary at Douglass Park (September 19-21), are now available. General admission passes start at $249.98, with premium packages offering perks like expedited entry and premium viewing areas. The performer lineup has yet to be announced. [Chicago Sun-Times]
Here’s what else is happening:
Tomorrow is the Winter Solstice – the shortest day of the year. NPR offers suggestions for enjoying the winter season, including exploring winter traditions from around the world and prioritizing self-care.
Tell me something good …
What’s your favorite Chicago-specific gift to give family and friends who don’t live in the area? Jane suggests Chicago skyline glasses.
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