Organizing the disorganized

The cover of USA Weekend says it all. Doesn't it. 

Organizing the beleaguered

Word is that CTU organizers are kicking around the idea of organizing beleaguered CPS staff. BBB's non-union minions lately have been bombarded with memos and directives ordering them to work off hours for the mayor's political projects. Latest was a memo requiring staff to march  next to the CPS float in the south-side Bud Billiken Parade. MIA teachers were required to report to their "cabinet level officer." Talk about delusions of grandeur.

Lawyers should be looking into this one to see if there's a violation of the Shakman Decree which banned political hiring and firing on the basis of political loyalty.

Next mayor?

CTU Prez Karen Lewis' name keeps popping up along with that of Ald. Bob Fioretti in discussions about possible mayoral candidates who could beat Rahm in 2015.

"That's not happening," says Crain's Greg Hinz.

But despite her prior reluctance, Ms. Lewis leaves the door open to running for re-election as union president in 2016. “Everything I've said and done, I've said and done to make a point,” she says. “I'm not a politician. I'm not trying to be elected. But the people who send their kids to Chicago Public Schools are supportive of me.”

 My private poll, taken among Wednesday half-price hamburger night patrons at Dunlay's in Logan Square, shows that either candidate, plus Toni Preckwinkle are more than capable of beating Emanuel in a head-to-head showdown. Question is, who's going to register needed 200,000 new voters? Another low voter turnout would almost guarantee a Rahm victory.