It’s sure to be a thought starter, a head scratcher even. Afterall, I’ve known him for years—having worked with him on a paper long ago, and read his articles for years (one of which won him a prize in journalism concerning a Chicago Southland story!).

 

He has always been thorough in his work and dogged in the search for answers. And he covered every day of the book subject’s days in office, as former Mayor of Chicago, so it won’t be want for substance or understanding.

 

“Up For Grabs” isn’t a delicate turn of phrase for a title to contain, but the way its used feels a little like a call-to-action, or a reminder. That anyone really can run for an elected position to make a positive difference. The baton of leadership is always up for grabs so to speak. If you don’t like how decisions are getting made in your town or city, you totally can get involved in a deeper way, but it takes tenacity. And maybe my friend the author will touch on that for readers.

 

So many women and minorities I know have expressed to me over the years a feeling like, they wouldn’t have a chance if they ran for an elected position. Despite high credentials and years of experience in a sector that beyond makes them qualified, the idea of winning an election doesn’t seem worth the slings and arrows.

 

Maybe Greg’s book could encourage women and minorities to reconsider what’s possible now. Inspite of a thick barrier to entry, given how much campaign funds factor into having a chance at winning any election— a book, a person, a movie, a song….anything can spark a belief in one’s self I believe. But I really don’t know what we’ll learn between the pages of “The City is Up for Grabs: How Mayor Lori Lightfoot Led and Lost a City in Crisis.” I write these words as a friend proud of where someone I’ve known has reached after over a decade of hard work at this craft and career in public service as a journalist.