Can Johnson revitalize downtown?

Chicago, Brandon Johnson is Officially Mayor

Thousands gathered at the UIC Pavillion to witness Johnson’s inauguration as Chicago’s 57th mayor. Check out what went down at the ceremony, who got a standing ovation, and who else was sworn in. [TRiiBE]

• Related: Here’s a refresher on Johnson’s campaign promises and his journey from former CPS teacher and union organizer to Chicago’s mayor. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

The General Assembly’s Final Spring Agenda

In the final scheduled week of the spring session, the state legislature will tackle a packed agenda, including unresolved budget issues, a proposal to help the Bears move to the ‘burbs, possible funding to address the growing number of people seeking asylum, and more. [Chicago Tribune]

• Related: Hear what Chi’s new mayor has been asking for in Springfield. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Empty Office Towers Threaten City’s Financial Power

Chicago is among various major U.S. cities whose status as global financial hubs has been threatened by the pandemic’s economic effects. And the recent departure of major companies like Citadel and Boeing Co. further adds to the void. Can Mayor Brandon Johnson reverse downtown's decline? [Bloomberg]

What’s Next For Urban Prep Students and Parents?

In the lead-up to the June 30 CPS takeover of the once-esteemed all-boys charter high schools in Bronzeville and Englewood, students must now choose where they will enroll next: the new school that will be run by the city at their existing campus, or another school altogether. [Chicago Tribune]

Turning Your Most Mortifying Moments into a Bestseller

Looking for some inspiration? Humorist Samantha Irby started as a blogger in Chicago and soon turned her personal and comedic horrors into a career as a best-selling essayist. Irby is on the City Cast Chicago podcast sharing her advice for writers. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

🏅 Senior Olympics in North Lawndale | Tuesday | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For all sports stars 60 years and up, show off your bocce game, shuffleboard skills, and more at the Homan Square Community Center Park. [$15]

🥁 Musical Improv in Lakeview | Tuesday | 8 p.m.

Watch two groups improvise brand-new musicals based on audience suggestions at The Annoyance Theatre & Bar. [$10]

🎭 Drunk Shakespeare in The Loop | Wednesday - Sunday | Varies

Catch a performance of five classically-trained actors performing a major role in a Shakespearean play after a couple of whiskey shots at The Lion Theatre. [$49-$89]

😆 Two Dykes and a Mic in Wicker Park | Friday | 7:15 p.m.

Enjoy a live show of the hilarious duo behind the raunchy queer show at The Den Theatre. [$31]

🍫 Long Grove Chocolate Fest | All Weekend | Varies

Experience live music, family activities, and chocolate experiences at this northwest suburban festival (single-day or three-day tickets are available). [$5]

Samantha Irby is ‘Quietly Hostile’ and Letting You Know It

Humorist Samantha Irby has made a career out of oversharing, from her start as a blogger in Chicago’s lit scene to becoming a New York Times bestselling essayist. Irby talks with host Jacoby Cochran about her new collection “Quietly Hostile” and how she spins personal horrors, from bathroom emergencies to mortifying dates, into comedy gold that makes readers feel less alone.