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SBC readers may remember that a year ago I took a busman's holiday, or rather a transit writer's getaway, by checking out the promised Frequent Network 10-minutes-or-better bus intervals on the #54 Cicero bus, which debuted that day. Not coincidentally, the date was March 23, my 54th birthday.

• "Judge orders federal government to unfreeze CTA funding for Red Line extension" (Sun-Times)

In a tragic hit-and-run case, last Saturday evening, a car driver struck and killed Violet Harris, 15, as she rode a Lime rental e-scooter in South Shore.

• Right-leaning Crain's op-ed by lobbyist, possible mayoral candidate John Kelly calls out "chronic budget problems" at CTA, doesn't mention new state funding

By Kalen Luciano

• Hit-and-run driver fatally struck Violet Harris, 15, on an e-scooter Saturday around 8:30 PM in the 2800 block of E. 77th in South Shore (Block Club)

It's time for the fifth installment of our series "Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA." This is an effort to find holistic solutions (not simply more policing) to the aggravating problem of smoking and vaping inside railcars. Take a look at part one for an intro to my perspective on the issue. It's common knowledge that smoking on the 'L' is a major hazard for people with disabilities, seniors, and young kids. It's also unhealthy and annoying for the rest of us, and it causes people to instead choose modes like driving and ride-hail, contributing to crashes, pollution, and congestion.

• "Metra to test new ticket process with riders scanning tickets before boarding" (NBC, Metra)

Recently, Josh Mark stepped down as chief of staff for the 47th Ward, represented by Ald. Matt Martin. The North Side district contains parts of North Center, Lincoln Square, Uptown, and Lakeview, and Martin is one of Chicago's most sustainable transportation-friendly City Council members. Many walking, biking, transit, and equitable TOD projects have happened in the ward since he took office in May 2019. Especially in recent years when Mark served as COS, he's been a key lieutenant to the alder who helped get those things done.