💍 Where to get engaged in Chicago

Elected School Board Update

Illinois Senate President Don Harmon filed legislation for Chicago to elect only 10 of the 21 school board seats in November. Mayor Brandon Johnson had sent a letter to the Oak Park Democrat last week to support the teachers union–backed plan where the mayor will get to appoint the remaining 11 members. [Sun-Times]

• Ask all your elected school board Q’s here. [Chalkbeat]
• The deadline to apply for local school councils, which are kind of like mini school boards, was extended until Wednesday. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Chicago Marathon Winner, World Record Holder Dies

Kelvin Kiptum and his coach died in a car crash in Kiptum’s native Kenya Sunday. Poised to win the gold medal at the Olympics this summer, the 24-year-old became the first man to run a marathon under 2 hours and 1 minute at the Chicago Marathon last fall. [Associated Press]

Binding vs. Non-Binding Referendum

Bring Chicago Home could be the first binding referendum to pass in the city since 1885. Here’s why not all referenda are created equal. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Tulips🌷 > Roses 🌹

Southside Blooms is encouraging Chicagoans to pick up tulips this Valentine’s Day as a sustainable alternative to roses, which are imported from warmer climates. The Englewood shop has grown tens of thousands of tulips. [Block Club]

Why the ShotSpotter Contract Renewal Matters

The City Cast Chicago podcast team breaks down the mayor’s options, referenda on your ballot, and Chicago’s most (and least) romantic spots.