🥃 Is Malört really that bad?

Johnson Names 6 New Ed Board Members

Mayor Brandon Johnson is replacing all but one member of the Chicago Board of Education. Johnson, who spent most of his career in education and with the Chicago Teachers Union, is bringing on advocates with experience in grassroots organizing and nonprofit experience. The new appointees will take office this month. [WBEZ]

Will NASCAR Return Next Year?

The mayor says he will evaluate the future of the street race in Chicago and “come up with a way forward that’s in the best interest for the entire city.” The original deal NASCAR signed with Chicago was for three years. [NBC Chicago]

Ruido Fest is Canceled

It’s unclear why the alternative Latino music festival scheduled for August was called off. Organizers said ticket holders will be refunded. But the Little Jesus concert at Bottom Lounge is still taking place July 13. [Block Club]

How to Get Help for Flooded Basements

If the recent severe storms affected your home, here’s how you can get help, file a claim, and tips for how to best clean up. [Sun-Times]

Daley Plaza City Market in The Loop | Thursday | 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Grab all the fresh and yummy produce for your weekend. [Pay as you go]

Surviving the Long Wars in Hyde Park | Thursday - Sunday | Vary

Catch the final days of this exhibition exploring the collective histories of Black people, Indigenous people, and people of color. [Free]

Afrobeat Street Festival in Hyde Park | Saturday | 12 - 10 p.m.

Vibe out to Chicago's top local and international DJs, enjoy food, shop from local vendors, and much more. [Free]

Freedom Fest in Avondale | Saturday | Varies

Celebrate this second annual event with rainbow iridescent beers. Tickets are for either of the two tasting sessions, which include a Freedom Series tasting glass. [$40]

Is Malort Really That Bad? We Try It!

Chicago has its share of inside jokes, but none may be more painful than goading newcomers into taking a shot of Malört. Whether you actually like the bitter liquor or you just want to see your friends make a weird face, it’s become a rite of passage.

And host Jacoby Cochran has never tried it … until today. Joining us in the taste test and a round of Malört trivia are lead producer Simone Alicea, marketing director Caroline Patton, and marketing coordinator Jermaine Thomas.