Good afternoon! Brace yourself for snow showers tonight—but don’t expect a white Christmas. Here’s what else you need to know today.
1. CPS CEO Pedro Martinez Faces Possible Ouster
The Chicago Board of Education has scheduled a special meeting for Friday at 5:45 p.m. to vote on whether to fire CPS CEO Pedro Martinez or accept a separation settlement. This decision could conclude a months-long leadership struggle marked by significant political tension within the school system. The meeting comes just days before a deadline for a contract agreement between the district and the Chicago Teachers Union. Martinez, who has previously resisted two attempts to remove him, reportedly wanted to remain in his position until at least the end of the school year. The board’s hesitancy to fire him stems from language in his contract requiring six months’ notice of termination without cause. [Chicago Sun-Times/WBEZ]
2. Amazon Workers in Skokie Join Nationwide Strike
Less than a week before the holiday shopping rush ends, Amazon workers in Skokie launched a strike, joining colleagues at six other Amazon facilities across the U.S. Dozens of workers marched outside the Skokie facility, demanding union recognition, better wages, benefits, and improved safety conditions. An Amazon spokesperson stated that the strikes have not impacted the company’s operations. The Skokie site serves thousands of Chicago-area households, according to the Teamsters union. [Chicago Sun-Times]
3. CTA Secures Funding for Red Line Extension
The Federal Transit Administration is set to finalize an agreement guaranteeing $1.9 billion in federal grants for the Red Line extension. This move secures funding for the project, addressing concerns that it could be jeopardized after the change in presidential administration. The CTA aims to begin construction late next year and complete the project by 2029. The extension will include new stations at 103rd, 111th Street near Eggleston Avenue, along Michigan Avenue near 116th Street, and a new terminal at 130th Street near Altgeld Gardens. [Chicago Sun-Times]
4. Drive the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile!
Recent college graduates have a chance to fulfill a childhood dream: driving the iconic Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. Applications for the Hotdoggers program, which offers a year-long opportunity to travel the U.S. as brand ambassadors, are being accepted until January 31st. [Block Club Chicago]
5. The 20 Best Things We Ate in Chicago in 2024
WBEZ highlights the best culinary experiences of the year, showcasing the diversity and innovation of Chicago’s food scene. From plant-based dishes and elevated breakfast sandwiches to gourmet versions of childhood favorites, the list reflects the city’s vibrant culinary landscape. [WBEZ]
Here’s what else is happening:
Teatro Zinzanni is offering a special holiday edition of its circus performance in a Loop hotel, featuring dinner, drag performances, and vocalist LiV Warfield. [WBEZ]
Tell me something good…
What’s your favorite Chicago-specific gift to give family and friends who don’t live in the area? Readers shared their suggestions, including Romanian Kosher Meat Market salami, Califone records, Exfolia Botanical floral subscriptions, Bedrock Faith by Eric Charles May, The Music Box Theatre memberships, and Frango mints.
© 2024 Chicago Public Media Inc. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | FCC Public Filing Info | Notice of FCC Applications