Is Mike Madigan officially out of politics?

Is Mike Madigan Officially Out of Politics?

The indicted ex–Illinois House Speaker is not running for Cook County Democratic commiteeperson, a role he has held for almost 55 years. His federal racketeering trial is set to begin April 1. [Sun-Times]

• How did Illinois’ most powerful politician rise to power — and lose it? [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

CPS Workers Accused of PPP Loan Fraud

Fourteen school district employees — many of whom earned six-figure salaries — allegedly lied to receive up to $21,000 each in Paycheck Protection Program loans, according to the CPS Inspector General. Twelve have resigned or been terminated, and the other two are in the process of being fired. [CBS Chicago]

Inside Dollop Coffee Bathroom Controversy

After being denied bathroom access at the South Loop coffee shop, Chicago police officers allegedly brought in unhoused people to make a point. The Chicago Police Department opened an internal investigation. [Block Club]

United HQ Staying in Chicago

The airline plans to ride out its long-term lease at Willis Tower, United officials said after rumors swirled following a 113-acre purchase in Denver. [Crain’s 🔒]

• Plus, how Chicagoans can find cheap flights. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Chicago Teens Love Their Hoodies

Despite a hot start to the school year, plenty of Chicago students keep rocking hoodies. Why? Some students at Kenwood Academy said the sweatshirt made them feel more secure. [WBEZ]

‘The Office’ Trivia in Forest Park 💼 Thursday | 7:30 p.m.

Whether you’re a super fan of the hit show or watched just a couple episodes, play for prizes at Kribi Coffee Forest Park. [Free]

Humboldt Park Volunteer 👋 Saturday | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Celebrate Volunteering Untapped's seventh anniversary by gardening followed by an after-party. [$5 suggested donation]

Logan Square Hair Museum 🦱 Sunday | 1–4 p.m.

Take in avant-garde and cutting-edge hairstyles dreamt up by AJ Knows Hair and Dough tha Barber. [$40]

Flood Prevention in Chatham 🛑 Sunday | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Help design an app for flood alerts in Chatham, learn how trees affect flooding, and discover private and public flood insurance plans. [Free]

Alphabet Dating in Chicago

The City Cast Chicago team is putting a spin on a new TikTok trend planning dates inspired by the alphabet. Host Jacoby Cochran and marketing coordinator Jermaine Thomas II face off.