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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2026 • S h awLo c a l .co m

FALL FUN

Northern Illinois orchards offer apples, cider and more this fall / 6

ONE FOR THE FANS. /huskies

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

2 ShawLocal.com 1985 DeKalb Ave. Sycamore, IL 60178 833-584-NEWS Office hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday SUBSCRIBER SERVICES 866-979-1053 customer-support@shawmedia.com 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, closed Sunday SUBSCRIPTIONS The MidWeek is delivered free of charge to households throughout DeKalb County every Wednesday. Those who do not wish to receive delivery may contact customer service at 866-979-1053, or subscriptions@shawsuburban.com, to request a delivery stop. SUBMIT NEWS readit@midweeknews.com CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com LEGAL NOTICES midweeklegals@shawlocal.com RETAIL ADVERTISING lshaw@shawmedia.com OBITUARIES midweekobits@shawlocal.com Market manager Laura Shaw lshaw@shawmedia.com Executive editor M. Eileen Brown ebrown@shawmedia.com Editor Emily Ayers 815-526-4411 eayers@shawmedia.com The Midweek and ShawLocal.com are a division of Shaw Media. All rights reserved. Copyright 2026

Kane County regional education office hires business director from Sycamore schools Nicole Stuckert to lead finance, technology, operations work By BRENDA SCHORY bschory@shawmedia.com The Kane County Regional Office of Education has named Nicole Stuckert as its new director of business and operations, officials announced in a news release. Stuckert, who began her new role in August, will serve as the office’s chief financial steward and operational leader. She will oversee budget development, financial reporting, grants and compliance, internal controls and audit preparation, according to the release. “Throughout the interview process, Nicole clearly stood out not only for her 17-year track record and exceptional professional reputation, but for her collaborative mindset,” Regional Superintendent John Jonak said in the release. “Her deep expertise in school finance and operations is evident on paper, but in person, it became instantly clear that her leadership style and vision will mesh seamlessly with our leadership team, ROE staff, and the local district leaders we support every day across Kane County,” Jonak said in the release. Stuckert comes to the ROE from Sycamore School District 427 after 17 years there. “The ROE appealed to me because of the

PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzles on page 19

Photo provided by the Kane County Regional Office of Education

Kane County Regional School Superintendent John Jonak (left) welcomes Nicole Stuckert as the office’s new director of Business and Operations. opportunity to use my experience in school finance and operations in a way that supports not just one district, but schools and communities across the entire county,” Stuckert said in the release. “I was especially drawn to the ROE’s collaborative nature and its commitment to being a trusted partner to local school districts,” Stuckert said in the release. “I’m looking forward to building strong relationships with district leaders, sharing my expertise and contributing to the ROE’s

continued positive impact on the schools and communities it serves.” Stuckert’s role in Kane County also carries responsibility for the office’s technology infrastructure, data systems and facilities. She will lead the staff and programs across the office’s finance, technology and operations work, which together support programs serving nine school districts,

See BUSINESS DIRECTOR, page 7

ON THE COVER A family eats apples they just picked at Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park on Aug. 26, 2023. See story, page 6. Shaw Local News Network file photo

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SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com Kishwaukee College recently held an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony for community members to view its newly renovated Emergency Medical Services facility. The open house was held Sept. 8 at the college, 21193 Malta Road, Malta. The college relocated an EMS classroom and lab to provide the program more space. The program also installed an ambulance simulator. The EMS program students train to work paramedic and emergency medical technician roles. “As the needs of our programs, students and local workforce have evolved, we have been able to repurpose spaces on campus,” Kishwaukee College President Laurie Boro-

wicz said in a news release. “We are fortunate to have all EMS instruction and related learning equipment relocated to one large learning space.” The Kishwaukee College EMS program is operated in partnership with the Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital EMS System. The program had 203 graduates receive an EMT certificate or paramedic certificate or degree since fall of 2020. “At Northwestern Medicine, we know how important it is that our EMS professionals are prepared for those moments when every second matters,” Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital program coordinator and EMS system manager Tony Woodson said in a news release. “The ambulance simulator gives them the opportunity to practice those skills in a realistic environ-

ment before they have to use them in the field.” The ribbon-cutting ceremony included remarks by Borowicz, Woodson, Kishwaukee College board of trustees chair Bob Johnson, DeKalb Fire DePartment fire chief Luke Howieson, Kishwaukee College interim vice president of instruction Jessica Berek and Kishwaukee College EMS program graduate and Fox River and Countryside Fire and Rescue District paramedic and firefighter Jonathan Knight “It’s great for new EMTs and paramedics to be given the opportunity to learn in the type of environment they will be expected to perform in outside of this class,” Knight said in the release. “It helps you get comfortable with performing your skills and bridges that gap to realworld situations.” For more information, visit kish. edu/ems.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

Watershed steward program planned

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Kishwaukee College holds Emergency Medical Services facility open house

The University of Illinois Extension will offer a seven-part watershed steward program for community members to learn about local waterways. The program will be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon Tuesdays from Oct. 6 through Nov. 17 at the DeKalb County Farm Bureau, 1350 W. Prairie Drive, Sycamore. Program topics include water quality science and climate change, invasive species and agriculture impacts on water bodies. The program will be led by researchers, watershed management professionals and scientists. “Sustaining and restoring natural resources is a priority for Illinois Extension, and the Watershed Steward Program joins and expands on our volunteer network of Master Naturalists and Climate Stewards who are doing valuable environmental work,” University of Illinois Extension assistant dean of natural resources, environment, and energy Shibu Kar said in a news release. The program costs $80. To register, visit go.illinois.edu/WSProgram or call 815-758-8194. – Shaw Local News Network

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

Sycamore OKs $597K plan for school buses By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com Sycamore Community Unit School District 427 administrators have received approval to enter into a leaseto-own agreement for six school buses worth a total of $597,175, according to district documents. The four 71-passenger buses and two wheelchair accessible buses cost $611,400, but after trading in five used buses, that total decreases to $541,400, according to city documents. However, the district will pay more than $50,000 above that total to own the buses. The lease-to-own agreement with American Capital, which has a 5.04% interest rate, was unanimously approved by the Sycamore school board on Aug. 25. During discussion, board member Alex Grados asked if the decision would lead to “cost savings.” Jeremy Bell, the district’s chief operating officer, told him that the idea of the leaseto-own agreement is to break up the costs of the buses.

“I don’t know that there’s a savings, if you will, as much as it’s spreading that cost out so we can have more cash flow,” Bell said. In a memo sent to Superintendent Kristen Campbell on the same day as the board’s vote to approve the financial contract, Gary Grizaffi, the district’s interim director of finance, explained why district officials opted to finance the purchase. Grizaffi wrote that part of the plan allows the district to modernize its transportation fleet to include two wheelchair-accessible buses for students. He wrote the acquisition includes a five-year tax-exempt lease for the buses, with an annual cost of $119,435. The plan, Grizaffi wrote, aids the district in ”preserving cash flow and supporting the Board’s goal of maintaining a balanced budget and a June 30 fund balance at or above 20%,” Grizaffi wrote. The five district buses being traded

See SCHOOL BUSES, page 5

Mark Busch file photo

Students arrive by bus Aug. 20, during the first day of school at North Grove Elementary in Sycamore.

• SCHOOL BUSES

in as part of the agreement all have more than 100,000 miles on their odometers and are between 5 and 7 years old, according to Grizaffi’s memo. Before the vote, Board Vice President Christian Copple asked about the condition of the buses being purchased. Bell said that Lacey Lantz, the district’s transportation director, had held conversations with the seller. “I’d like to know that,” Copple said. “We’re going to be using them. They’re going to be utilized by students. We’re leasing to own; I mean, we’re paying money, interest as well, so I’m just hoping to make sure that we’re getting a good product.” Each of the four 71-passenger buses cost $99,900, while the two wheelchair-accessible buses cost $105,900 each, documents show. The agreement doesn’t stop with the bus purchase, according to Grizaffi’s memo. A future purchase of eight

passenger vans for student activity and special education outplacement services was also included, documents show. “They’re really having a difficult time in keeping them running,” Grizaffi said. “It’s more costly obviously to buy new vans, but I think in the long run it would be a win-win, especially for those students that are required, that are using those vans to be transported.” Board member Alan Zantout asked if a second action item to buy the vans – the cost of which was not outlined in board documents shared with the public for the bus lease-to-purchase agreement – would be a future action item. “There can be, yes,” Bell said. “It would just be the same lender ... I would defer to you guys in terms of action versus presentation and some of those other things.” When Grados asked for clarification, Bell said that buying the vans would run through American Capital, but the board will need to vote to approve that purchase at a later date.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Continued from page 4

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

Pick your peck: 11 area orchards ready for fall By AIMEE BARROWS abarrows@shawmedia.com Fall is here, and that means it’s time for one of the most beloved fall traditions... apple picking! If you’re planning a family outing to collect a variety of apples, or just craving fresh cider and warm apple cider doughnuts, northern Illinois is home to plenty of orchards that make the season even sweeter. Here are some of the best places to go apple picking and enjoy fall fun across the region.

Woody’s Orchard – Plano

More than 20 apple varieties, including Candy Crisp, Buckeye Gala and Idared, are available for pickup through mid-October. In addition to apples, enjoy apple cider slushies and apple cider doughnuts. Check out the beautiful sunflower fields and kids activities while there. 3223 Creek Road, Plano. woodysorchard.com

Royal Oak Farm – Harvard

Enjoy the orchards and the Pollination Garden at this popular destination in Harvard. The farm has about 22,000 trees with 30 varieties of apples across four orchards. Check out the Blossom Ridge sunflower and U-Pick flower areas, as well as the many activities, including a carousel, playground, petting zoo, mazes and more. Enjoy lunch and freshly made baked goods at the Country Kitchen. 15908 Hebron Road, Harvard. royaloak.farm

Keller’s Farmstand – Oswego

Choose fresh apples from more than 16,000 trees on this Oswego farm. About 20 varieties of apples are available to pick now or in late September and October. Stop by on the weekends for fall festivities on Saturdays and Sundays. The fun includes a corn maze, farm animals, a kids play area and more. 2500 Johnson Road, Oswego. kellersfarmstand.com/locations/oswego-farmstand.

Jonamac Orchard – Malta

This 25-acre orchard in DeKalb County has more than 30 apple varieties available for picking, from classics such as Jonathan and Cortland to new varieties such as Pazazz and Ludacrisp. Activities include a corn maze, petting zoo and more. Grab some apple cider doughnuts, pies, hand-dipped caramel apples, homemade fudge,

Gregory Shaver file photo

A guest picks a Snow Sweet apple on Oct. 10, 2024, at the Royal Oak Farm Apple Orchard in Harvard. local honey and other treats. Visit the Cider House for hard ciders, apple wines and collaborative beers. 19412 Shabbona Road, Malta. jonamacorchard.com

Windy Acres Farm – Geneva

The farm’s orchard has more than 5,000 trees for your apple-picking enjoyment. Guests can take a wagon ride to the orchard, where they can pick a quarter-peck of apples. Check out the homemade apple cider doughnuts and hand-dipped caramel apples at the farm stand. 37W446 Fabyan Parkway, Geneva. windyacresfarmstand.com

BerryView Orchard – Mount Morris

Pick apples and aronia berries at this Ogle County orchard. Check out the apple cider doughnuts and Aronia Shaw Local News Network file photo

See APPLE PICKING, page 7

Sun Crisp apples are ready for picking at Jonamac Orchard in Malta on Sept. 28, 2022.

• APPLE PICKING

more than 30 nonpublic schools, 9,000 educators and more than 107,000 students across Kane County, according to the release. Beyond internal operations, Stuckert will work directly with districts. She will facilitate the county’s Chief School Business Officials network and manage the Health/Life Safety review and permit process, including training school staff statewide on the compliance applications the state requires. During her last 11 years in Sycamore, Stuckert served as assistant superintendent for business services and chief school business official, according to the release. Prior to that, she was district accountant for three years and director of finance/chief financial officer for three years. Upon becoming assistant superintendent, she helped lead the district through a significant financial turnaround, overcoming an approximately $6 million deficit and restoring long-term financial stability. She eliminated the district’s reliance on tax anticipation warrants and produced balanced operating budgets for eight consecutive years. Throughout her tenure, she managed an annual budget of more than $50 million while balancing fiscal responsibility with the district’s operational and educational needs. Stuckert holds a Bachelor of Science in accountancy and a master’s degree in business administration from Northern Illinois University. She also holds the state credential Illinois requires to serve as a school district’s chief business official.

slushies. According to the orchard’s website, Aronia berries are high in antioxidants and other vitamins, and are best used in smoothies, jams, baked goods and oatmeal. 7504 W. Midtown Road, Mt. Morris. Visit the orchard’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date information. berryvieworchard. com

Guests can visit the apple orchard to choose among 20 varieties of apples from their dwarf trees, as well as the beautiful sunflower fields for the Sunflower Experience. Orchard tickets include a quarter-peck bag. Homemade apple cider doughnuts, fudge, pies, jams and jellies, wine, freshly pressed apple cider and more are available at the Orchard Shop and Bakery. 1N145 Watson Road, Maple Park. kuipersfamilyfarm. com

All Seasons Orchard – Woodstock

Goebbert’s Farm – Pingree Grove

Boggio’s Orchard & Produce – Granville

Honey Hill Orchard – Waterman

Continued from page 2

Kuipers Family Farm – Maple Park

Continued from page 6

The pick-your-own orchard is one of the largest in the area, with more than 16,000 apple trees and varieties including Zestar, Gala, Honeycrisp and more. Take a wagon ride out to two orchards. Check out the barnyard for more than 30 activities, including the new giant corn box, chicken show, ropes course and other attractions. 14510 Route 176, Woodstock. allseasonsorchard.com Just southwest of the Illinois River Valley is Boggio’s Orchard & Produce, where wagons bring guests out to the orchard that’s home to about 1,800 apple trees. Fall activities include a petting zoo, corn maze, apple slide, jumping pillow and more. The bakery offers freshly made fruit pies, doughnuts, fresh-baked breads, fruit turnovers, homemade fudge and more. 12087 Highway 71, Granville. boggiosorchardandproduce.com

The 30-acre apple orchard is open, and available varieties include Zestar, Honeycrisp, Blondee, Candy Crisp and more. A sampling of activities features wagon rides, a playground, animals, a carousel and a corn maze. Pick some fresh vegetables, and check out the farmstand for a variety of goodies. 42W813 Reinking Road, Pingree Grove. goebberts.com Visit Honey Hill’s 1880s converted apple barn, home to the craft and gift store. The orchard has 25 varieties of apples, a free children’s play area with a petting zoo and straw maze, apple cider doughnuts, apple cider, freshly baked pies, caramel apples and honey. Special events are scheduled on weekends throughout the season. Visit the website for more information. 11783 Waterman Road, Waterman. honeyhillorchard.com

SEP 9:00am – 3:00pm Van Buer Plaza Downtown Dekalb

Featuring:

9:00 -11:30am

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Directly follows the Corn Classic 10k – come find us at the finish line! Proceeds will fund the Community Grant for Children, Youth and Families of DeKalb County

7 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

• BUSINESS DIRECTOR

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

DeKalb County visitors bureau names new director Outgoing exec heads to NIU community relations By KATE SANTILLAN ksantillan@shawmedia.com The DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau has promoted Katherine McLaughlin as its new executive director to succeed outgoing leader Cortney Strohacker as she transitions to a new role with Northern Illinois University. McLaughlin’s role is effective Oct. 19, according to a news release. Strohacker has accepted a community relations director position at NIU. “It has been an incredible privilege to serve as the Executive Director of the DCCVB,” Strohacker said in the release. “I am immensely proud of the work we have accomplished to elevate DeKalb County as a premier destination. While I am excited to embark on this new chapter at NIU, I am also thrilled to remain an active participant in our community.

Photo provided by DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau

The DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau has promoted Katherine McLaughlin (left) as its new executive director to succeed outgoing leader Cortney Strohacker (right) as she transitions to a new role with Northern Illinois University, effective Oct. 19. I leave with full confidence, knowing the strong, supportive board and capable DCCVB is in excellent hands with a new leadership.”

Under Strohacker’s leadership, the bureau’s focus increased to drive regional economic impact through tourism and event attraction. She also strengthened local business partnerships, revitalized the visitor bureau’s marketing approach and committed to showcasing DeKalb County’s character to visitors. McLaughlin’s passion for community engagement and understanding of local tourism will help guide the bureau forward, according to the release. “I am honored to serve as Executive Director,” McLaughlin said in the release. “Cortney has made a lasting impact on the DCCVB and our community. I look forward to strengthening the partnerships that drive our local economy and keeping DeKalb County a vibrant, welcoming destination for all.” The DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau board of directors expressed its gratitude to Strohacker for years of leadership and service. For information, visit dekalbcountycvb.com/.

ART MUSEUM MUSIC

NIU.EDU/MUSIC Sept. 29 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 9 Oct. 10 Oct. 11 ..

NIU Wind Ensemble, 7 p.m. Avalon String Quartet with screening of Ménilmontant featuring new score, 7 p.m. Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble, 7 p.m. NIU Philharmonic, 7 p.m. Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Concert Choir, Chamber Choir and University Chorus, 7 p.m.

THEATRE/DANCE

NIU.EDU/ART MUSEUM The Olmec Heads Experience and Celebrating 40 | Burma Art Collection Both shows open Sept. 16

Men on Boats

OLSON GALLERY

NIU.EDU/THEATRE

by Jaclyn Backhaus Directed by Bethany Mangum-Oles Black Box Theatre, Stevens Building 7:30 p.m., Sept. 25, 26, Oct. 1, 2 2 p.m., Sept. 27, Oct. 3

NIU.EDU/ART The Risk Worth Taking exhibition by Kevin Cole, MFA ‘84 Open through Oct. 15

LOOKING BACK

9 quent account before sanitary sewer service can be shut off.

Complete returns, round by round and blow by blow, will be given by the Chronicle tonight on the world’s championship fight between Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney, who meet in Philadelphia tonight. Bulletins on the battle will be posted in the windows of The Chronicle. New cement walks this week are being constructed on Pearl Street which lead under the viaduct of the Chicago North Western railway. Following the completion of the paving there, sidewalk traffic was next to impossible. It is understood that the viaduct will be properly protected within a short time by the installation of refactors, which will serve as a warning to the motor drivers of the community who use that street. All reports to the contrary, it is stated officially by an employe of the Illinois Power Company, that there is little possibility of the steam heat being turned on here for a week or ten days. It is understood that some repairs are necessary and until these are made no effort will be made to give steam to the consumers of the city. With the repairs that have been made on the system in DeKalb and at the plant this year, there is no reason why those people using this kind of heat, would not get the best possible service this coming winter.

DeKalb city officials plan to apply for federal funding that would totally finance the construction of a new fire station. High insurance rates have caused several persons to reconsider their plant to start another taxi service in Sycamore. Mayor Harold “Red” Johnson said this week several persons have contacted him about starting a new service since the former service was discontinued three weeks ago.

Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives

Ellwood Elementary School at 11th and Lewis streets in DeKalb, viewed from 11th Street looking northeast, circa 1920.

Archie Twombly was hauling to the threshing machine. The wagon crowded the mill and it came down toward the west and finally landed on the bundle wagon and the tractor which Mr. Engstrom runs. The outfit with it certainly was a lucky one as no one was killed on a busy day like threshing days are.

Stahl Construction Co. employees began work on the Normal Road extension project this week. The 1,300-foot extension will connect Ridge Drive and Dresser Road. Dirt and base work will be completed this fall, and if work progresses smoothly, surfacing also may be completed.

without figures is no exception. A Genoa gal reported three in Sycamore in the same fix and darned if they weren’t. One 2001 – 25 YEARS AGO on the southeast corner of the Courthouse Deadly terrorist attacks against some lawn, one at the post office, and one on of the nation’s largest buildings are having the bank building. an effect on some of the smallest people in the DeKalb area. Students and faculty at Year 1952 auto license plates will bear area schools have started to gather contrimidnight blue figures on an orange back- butions to be used toward helping those 1951 – 75 YEARS AGO ground, and will be made of a steel alloy affected by last week’s tragedies in New Skyrocketing costs and war scarcities instead of aluminum plate. Steel alloy York City, Washington, D. C., and Pennsyldealt a paralyzing blow last night to plates will cost 23.2 cents apiece, comvania. As of Thursday, a three-day fundDeKalb’s plans for building much needed pared to 24.95 cents for the present raising effort organized by the student plates. But the new plates will weigh council had collected $3,370.65 to be At the meeting of the Sycamore B. P. O. schools. Facing facts squarely, the Board of Education took drastic action at a meet- more, so mailing costs will increase from 6 given to the United Way. The Student Elks held on Tuesday night several busiCouncil donated $100 to the fund. ness matters were given attention during ing held last night in the library at the high cents apiece to 8 cents. school in an effort to salvage as much as the evening. One of the principal matters Cowboys and apple trees do not mix Officials with Castle BancGroup Inc. say of business to come before the members possible of the plans for District 64, the well, at least so J. C. found last Saturday their customers will notice few if any were the awarding of the contract for the city’s elementary schools. afternoon when he climbed the apple tree changes in the bank’s day-to-day operaconstruction of new cement walk on the Chronicle readers, seeing the new fea- in Stanley Well’s backyard to get away tions should a plan to become part of a west and south side of the home. Several from his pursuers. They had him cornered Nebraska corporation by approved by regbids were received but after due consider- ture that lists television programs from four channels, and the DeKalb radio staand he climbed to the top of the tree. In ulators. ation, the house committee awarded the contract to Bert Nelson. Work has already tion activities, were highly pleased. Com- trying to use his gun on the gang, he lost ments on the special feature, which is his balance and landed under the tree with After limited outbursts from residents, started on the walks and within another appearing in today’s issue of The Chronicle a broken left arm. The doctor put the arm the DeKalb Park District board voted to day or two, people will be compelled to for the second time in the 36-week proin a cast and J., who is a pupil in the first enter into an agreement to accept a donadetour, as they walk south on Somonauk gram, ranged all the way from “excellent” grade in St. Mary’s School, is going about tion of land. The 21 acres were offered as a Street or west on Elm Street. to “it’s about time.” his business as usual this morning. donation from John Clare Ltd., a Naperville-based developer with plans to build a Joe Baumgartner has a new windmill Talk abut bench marks, those little 1976 – 50 YEARS AGO 318-townshome subdivision on property erected at his home to replace the one brass gadgets which are supposed to Persons failing to pay their quarterly commonly known as the Hoger Farm. that fell over while they were threshing DeKalb Sanitary District sewer charges there a few weeks ago. The other windmill show how high a spot is above sea level, the one I found at the DeKalb post office will have a chance to explain their delinlanded on top of a load of bundles that – Compiled by Sue Breese

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

1926 – 100 YEARS AGO

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

10 LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS Kishwaukee Sunrise Rotary’s Taste of DeKalb set for Sept. 27

The Kishwaukee Sunrise Rotary Club of Sycamore and DeKalb will hold its 10th annual Taste of DeKalb event for community members to support is Community Grant for Children, Youth and Families of DeKalb County. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27 at Van Buer Plaza in downtown DeKalb. The event will feature the following food trucks: Lovely Lemon, Nina’s Tacos, Big D’s Hot Dogs, Jah Love Jamaica, Slow Smoke BBQ and Little Ollie’s. There will be an inflatable obstacle course, face painting and children’s activities. Infunktious and The Prissillas will perform. The Taste of DeKalb also will coincide with the Corn Classic 10K finish line. Kishwaukee Sunrise Rotary has donated more than $74,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations for a program that benefits the county’s youth, families or children over the past nine years. Previous recipients include Rooted for Good, Adventureworks, Kishwaukee Family

YMCA, Family Service Agency, Hope Haven and Opportunity House.

History Center to offer genealogy resource workshop Oct. 3 The DeKalb County History Center will offer a workshop on its various genealogical resource collection. The event will begin at noon Oct. 3 at the history center, 1730 N. Main St., Sycamore. Attendees will learn about the history center’s research collection and how archival materials can answer DeKalb County history questions. The workshop also will provide tips to locate local records information, explain how to begin a research project and how archives complement online resources. DeKalb County History Center genealogy researcher Cathy Fawcett will lead the workshop. “A wealth of genealogy materials are preserved here,” DeKalb County History Center archives director Rob Glover said in a news release. “A lifetime of documents, from birth records and school yearbooks

to early wills and obituaries and everything in between, can help you find your ancestors.” The workshop costs $5 and is limited to 20 participants. Registration is required; visit dekalbcountyhistory.org. For information, call 815-895-5762 or email joinerhistoryroom@dekalbcountyhistory.org.

DCEDC accepting grant initiative applications The DeKalb County Economic Development Corp.’s Rural Vitality Committee will partner with the DeKalb County Community Foundation to accept grant initiative applications from rural organizations to secure project funding. The funding will support projects that enhance local assets, revitalize downtowns and strengthen communities. Applicants must be a local government unit or organizations working in partnership with a community with a population less than 10,000. Eligible applicants also must provide

rural DeKalb County residents benefits, services or direct assistance. Priority will be given to projects identified in community plans, collaborative efforts and projects leveraging additional resources. The organizations must provide evidence community application support. The funds will be provided by Compeer Financial. The projects should have a one-year target completion date. A grant report will be required. The applicants may request up to $10,000. The grants areas of interest include rural education, housing expansion, community development and downtown revitalization, workforce development, entrepreneurship and small business support, agriculture and leadership development. The grant applications are due Nov. 1. The recipients will be announced in early December. To apply, visit DeKalbCCF.org For information, visit dcedc.org/ rural-vitality or DeKalbCCF.org, call 815-748-5383 or 815-895-2711, or email avandrew@dcedc.org or grants@ dekalbccf.org. – Shaw Local News Network

contact@shawmedia.com The Somonauk Public Library, 700 E. La Salle St., will host several programs events in October. The events schedule includes: • Tween/Teen Craft Time: Ghost Paintings and Ghost Lanterns: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct 8. Participants can create ghostthemed lanterns and paintings. The program is open to ages 10 to 15. Registration is required. • Tween/Teen STEM: Halloween Challenges: 6 to 7 p.m. Oct. 12. Attendees can participate in various Halloween-themed STEM challenges. The event is intended for ages 10 to 13. Registration is required. • Popcorn and Pages: 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 22. Participants will read “Fantastic Mr. Fox” by Roald Dahl. The program is open to children ages 8 to 13. Registration is required. • Truck or Treat! At the YMCA: 1 to 2 p.m. Oct. 25. No registration is required. • Tot Tales: 11 a.m. Oct. 14 and 28. Attendees will be introduced to books, hand motions, songs and rhymes. The program is open to ages newborn to 3. Registration is required. • Stories and Crafts: 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. Oct. 8 and 20. The event includes crafts, stories, songs and snacks. The event is intended for children ages 3 to 6. Registration is required. • After School Lego Create for Kids: 3 p.m. Oct. 16. Participants can build Lego creations. The program is open to children ages 7 to 10. Registration is required. • Books Before Bedtime: 7 p . m .

Oct. 26. Attendees will listen to bedtime stories and color pictures. Participants are encouraged to wear pajamas. Snacks will be served. The event is intended for children ages 3 to 7. Registration is required. • Paws to Read: 4 p.m. Oct. 22. Participants will read to Fox Valley therapy dogs. The program is open to children in first through fifth grades. Registration is required. • Michelle Gibbons presents the Salem Witch Hunt: 6:30 p.m. Oct. 6. Attendees will learn about the Salem Witch Trials and the various women accused of witchcraft. The event will be led by historical presenter Michelle Gibbons. • Tech Help with Steve: 1 : 3 0 t o 2:30 p.m. Oct. 7 and 15. Participants will receive one-on-one technology support from tech enthusiast Steve Goodwin. The 20-minute sessions include laptop, tablet and tablet assistance. Registration is required. To register, visit the library’s front desk. • Addressing Medicare Questions: 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Oct. 19 and 10:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Oct. 21. Medicare expert Cindy Fields will answer questions. No registration is required. • Cards With Karen: 6 p.m. Oct. 20. Participants will learn how to create three Halloween cards. Attendees must bring their own glue. Registration costs $5 and is required. • ”It’s Alive! The Birth of the Universal Pictures Monsters” with William Pack: 6:30 p.m. Oct. 27. William Pack will discuss the history of Universal Pictures horror films released from 1913 to 1956.

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Adults ages 18 and older can register to vote during an event at the DeKalb Public Library. The registration will run from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 29 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. Library staff will guide participants

through the registration process and answer questions. Attendees must bring proof of current address and a valid photo ID. The event is part of the library’s America 250 initiative. For information, email amyf@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6108. – Shaw Local News Network

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11 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

State Rep. Briel denies allegations of campaign misconduct ‘It’s not true. It’s not real,’ Briel said in lengthy response to public question By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com State Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, who’s seeking a second term in November, spoke directly to allegations of sexual harassment and campaign misconduct at a DeKalb town hall Thursday night, becoming emotional at times and saying she was “floored” by the claims, which she denied. “It’s not true. It’s not real,” said Briel, D-Ottawa. She spoke for more than five minutes in response to the question. The question, posed by a member of the public, asked the freshman lawmaker to address allegations that circulated in a publicized video last month. The resident asked Briel whether the claims were true. In the video – released by Briel’s Republican opponent Liz Bishop’s campaign – former chief of staff Laura Jackson accused Briel of repeated sexual

Mark Busch file photo

State Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, speaks Sept. 10 during a town hall gathering at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of DeKalb. advances, workplace drug use, harassment and retaliation. Briel on Thursday again denied claims of sexual harassment, alleging the staffer, whom she identified as “Ms. Jackson,” was upset for not getting hired for a position. Bishop’s campaign didn’t respond to a request for comment by press time Friday. Briel said she was with her family and

other campaign staff the night of the inauguration, and “nothing like that ever occurred.” “I was floored, stunned,” Briel said of learning about the allegations through the Illinois Inspector General’s Office. Briel said Legislative Inspector General Mike McCuskey – who resigned Aug. 31 – found the allegations to be unfounded. McCuskey’s resignation, which came amid criticism about his ability to handle

investigations, is effective Sept. 30, Capitol News Illinois reported. Despite some initial pushback from Briel’s staffer at the town hall about the question, Briel told the resident she was glad he asked it, and appreciated the chance to “clear the air.” ”I am actually perfectly fine with you asking that question,” Briel said. “I’m happy to be able to talk to you guys and let you in on the situation and what occurred. One of the things I think you should always look for in people that you elect are people who are willing to tell you the truth.” Briel said she didn’t understand why the allegations were made. “I was a counselor for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors,” Briel said. “In my life, I was a crisis line worker; I have been a fighter for people who have been bullied and who have been hurt, and that was mind-blowing to me. I just couldn’t wrap my head around it.” Briel represents House District 76 in the Illinois General Assembly, which includes portions of DeKalb, Bureau and La Salle counties.

Here in DeKalb and the surrounding communities, we know that fall can go by quickly. One day we’re enjoying comfortable temperatures, and the next we’re reaching for the thermostat because the house is getting chilly. Before that first really cold night arrives, it’s smart to have your residential furnace cleaned, inspected and checked by a qualified HVAC professional from KM Heating and Cooling. Find the Problems Before You Need the Furnace. We look at the overall condition of the heating system and check the components that are critical to reliable operation. We inspect the electrical connections, blower assembly, motors, burners and other components for signs of wear or deterioration. One of the Most Important Checks: The Heat Exchanger. One of the areas we take very seriously is the heat exchanger, which is designed to keep the combustion gases separated from the air being circulated throughout your home. As a furnace gets older, the heat exchanger can be

affected by corrosion, cracking or deterioration. Remember the Venting System. Your furnace needs to safely exhaust combustion gases from the home. We inspect the venting for problems such as deterioration, blockage, loose connections or other conditions that could interfere with proper exhaust. Carbon monoxide deserves special attention because you can’t see it, smell it or taste it.

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Don’t Wait Until the First Big Cold Snap. It’s much easier to deal with a problem before you need the heat. From KM Heating and Cooling: We’ve been working on heating and cooling systems in DeKalb and the surrounding area for 35 years, and one thing we always tell our customers is that preventive maintenance is about more than protecting the equipment. It’s about protecting your comfort, your investment, and your family. A little attention in the fall can go a long way toward keeping your family warm and comfortable throughout an Illinois winter. For more information, or to schedule a visit, please contact Dave Kissel at KM Heating and Cooling at (815) 691-1991.

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

14 Bulmer Consulting opens DeKalb office

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF Sycamore library’s used book sale set for Sept. 25 and 26

Photo provided by the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the opening of Bulmer Consulting’s new office in DeKalb. Chamber ambassadors, community and board members and staff marked the occasion with a ribbon-cutting June 30. Bulmer Consulting, 303 E. Hillcrest Drive, Suite 6, provides tailored and strategic guidance to help unlock business owners and leaders potential.

The Friends of the Sycamore Library will hold a used book sale to support the library’s resources, services and facilities. The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 25 and 26 at the library, 103 E. State St. Sale items include new or nearly new fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks and mystery books, DVDs and CDs. Halloween, Christmas and Thanksgiving items also will be available. Prices range from 25 cents to $3. Shoppers also fill their Friends of the Library tote bag for $10 on Sept. 26. The Friends of the Sycamore Library is a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the library. For information, email friendsofthesycamorelibrary@gmail.com. – Shaw Local News Network

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By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Discussion on DeKalb School District 428’s $166.3 million spending plan for fiscal 2027 dominated last week’s board meeting ahead of its approval. The DeKalb school board voted 6-0 to adopt a budget the district will use to fund operations from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Board member Vanta Bynum was absent. The budget, as approved, includes $166.3 million in expenditures and $163.5 million in revenue, with a projected deficit of $2.7 million that’s not structural, drawing from reserve fund balance to help pay for the construction of the district’s new early learning development center for preschool-age children. Once complete, the facility is set to come online in fall 2028. Some changes to the district’s annual budget were noted since the last time the school board reviewed it. Armir Doka, the district’s director of business and finance, noted that the district’s budget deficit has decreased and that overall revenues have grown. The district’s share of evidence-based state funding is anticipated to remain funded at a Tier 3 level with 94% adequacy, or approximately $134,000, documents show. Doka said the district’s funding share “has been shrinking every year” as it moves up the tiers. Information is still pending on the availability of U.S. Department of Justice grant funding and other funding availability, such as After School grant funding and Agriculture Education grant funding, among others. The district was allocated about $98,000 from the state for another install-

pointed to transportation and special education reimbursements, two of the mandated categorical funds the district is owed from state and federal governments, and what they mean for the district’s budget forecasting efforts. “Something to keep in mind as I know tax levy season is coming up and nobody wants to see their property taxes go up, but I need the community and people here to understand these are things that we are mandated,” Hueramo said. “We have to provide transportation for students that are a mile-and-ahalf away, at least, if they qualify for special education. We have to do that, whether the federal government has given us enough money for that, and that means dipping into fund balance to Megann Horstead file photo be able to make those things happen.” DeKalb School District 428 Superintendent Billy Hueramo (second from right) delivers remarks Officials previously reviewed and during his first superintendent update as the top education official for DeKalb schools at the July approved the district’s budget in tenta21 regular school board meeting. tive form during a school board meeting in August. ment of the teacher vacancy grant, bursements have resulted in the district The district held a public hearing and meant to support, hire and retain educa- having to play catch-up for previous took final action on its budget ahead of a tors, documents show. years. Sept. 30 deadline, in accordance with District leaders are anticipating a Superintendent Billy Hueramo state requirements. further reduction in what the state will reimburse for transportation and special education expenses in the new fiscal year. Initially, DeKalb schools estimated that special education services would be father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. prorated at 60%, but the district is learn- NORMAN R. SCHNURR He married the love of his life, Janis VanHorn ing that the state will now cover up to Born: April 13, 1946 in Beloit, WI Schnurr, on May 3, 1968, and together they 54.9% of the costs. That means the dis- Died: August 31, 2026 in DeKalb, IL built a loving family and shared 58 years of trict either has to dip into its savings or marriage. ask the taxpayers to make up the differNorman R. Schnurr, Norman is survived by his beloved wife, Janis, ence. 80, of DeKalb, Illinois, and their six daughters: Jennifer Fairbanks At the same time, transportation passed away peacecosts have been rising for the district for (Bryan), Rachael Schnurr (Jim Miskeviks), fully on August 31, years. District staff said the district has Heather Schnurr-Trebe (Jon), Barbara Schnurr, 2026. Born in Beloit, been paying about $550,000 to $580,000 Amber Gates (Aaron), and Gretchen Schnurr Wisconsin, on April 13, on bus fuel monthly since March, which (Charles Spivey). He is also survived by his 1946, Norman lived a makes for about 20% to 30% more. brother Nathan Schnurr, 24 grandchildren, one life defined by family, Doka said the transportation reimgreat-grandson, one niece, and one nephew

OBITUARIES

service, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the outdoors. A proud Marine veteran, Norman carried the values of service, loyalty, and dedication throughout his life. He worked for both Northern Illinois University and KishHealth System, where he was known for his commitment and dependability. Norman was happiest when he was outdoors. An avid fisherman and nature lover, he found joy in quiet waters, and time spent surrounded by the natural world. He was also an enthusiastic cyclist, enjoying the freedom and adventure that came with riding. These passions reflected the way Norman lived—curious, active, independent, and always ready to appreciate the simple pleasures of life. Above all, Norman was a devoted husband,

who brought him immense pride and joy. He was proceeded in death by his father Norman U. Schnurr, mother Betty Jane E. Christman Schnurr and sister Jenny Lynn Schnurr Bagwell. His family will remember Norman for his love of the outdoors, his adventurous spirit, his dedication to those he loved, and the countless memories he created throughout his life. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the many lives he touched. Norman will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, daughters, grandchildren, great-grandson, extended family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Dad. May your next adventure be filled with quiet waters and endless skies.

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

$166.3M spending plan approved for DeKalb schools 15

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK

Sycamore weed store could open by October Bud & Rita’s drive-thru concept still needs City Council approval By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com A developer asking the city’s permission to operate Sycamore’s first cannabis dispensary said Bud & Rita’s could open in October. Steve Weber, of Echelon Grow, said during a Sycamore Planning and Zoning Commission meeting last week that the retail space at 1598 DeKalb Ave. is almost ready for business. “I think we’re just awaiting a transformer from ComEd at this point,” Weber said. “We’re hoping to be open sometime in October. I appreciate all of your support so far.” He told Shaw Local News Network that he has the state’s permission to open a dispensary in Sycamore, but a license specifically for the Bud & Rita’s location still awaits state approval. An opening date for the city’s first dispensary hadn’t been announced as of Sept. 15. It’s also not yet known what the store’s hours will be. Most of the six other Bud & Rita’s locations open around breakfast and close by 9 or 10 p.m. On Feb. 16, the Sycamore City Council unanimously approved a dispensary after a separate 7-1 vote to loosen zoning requirements for cannabis businesses. Illinois state legislators made a similar move months later. On June 6, a state law opened the window to drive-thru orders and increased the amount of cannabis residents and nonresidents can purchase. Among the first in the state to offer the new purchasing option was a business in Woodstock. On Aug. 7, Weber filed a petition for the Sycamore spot that, if approved, would allow him to take advantage of the less restrictive legislation. He asked Sycamore officials to amend city code to allow drive-thru windows at cannabis businesses, according to city documents. On Sept. 14, Weber said the dispensary’s business plan has always been

inclusive of a potential drive-thru, if the law allowed. “When we had designed it, within the building as well as on the property, we designed it to allow for a drive-thru,” Weber said. However, the proposed drive-thru at Bud & Rita’s wouldn’t operate like most drive-thrus. Customers would be required to have an order placed and be given a time for pickup. “There’s no queuing of the drivethru,” Weber said. “It’s not a traditional drive-thru where you’re actually looking at a menu and ordering.” Patrons will have to be 21 or older to pick up an order from the proposed drive-thru, and no minors will be allowed inside the vehicle at the time of the pickup, Weber said. “We are approaching this as like a true pharmacy drive-thru,” Weber said. “Basically our window is a pharmacy-grade, bank teller window with a drawer that slides open. There’s an intercom system to communicate with the person that will be in the vehicle.” Recently, a public hearing on Weber’s request was held during Sycamore’s first Planning and Zoning Commission meeting since May. Hall described the request as “pretty straightforward” in his preface to the commission. “There is still state requirements on how all of that is functioning, security and so forth,” Hall said. Commission Chair Nate Kitterman told members that Weber’s petition was to change the city’s code, not for a special use permit for the dispensary. “This is not just limited to Bud & Rita’s,” Kitterman said. “This does change the [unified development ordinance] and is not limited to just this property.” The Commission unanimously voted to forward Weber’s drive-thru request to the Sycamore City Council, expected to vote on it at a later date. Kitterman asked the only question (from the commission or the public) during the minutes-long public hearing. “I’m assuming, and I really hate to ask this, but I’m assuming DoorDash and Uber and all that is out of the question?” Kitterman said. Weber said, “None of that is allowed.”

Kelsey Rettke file photo

The freshly paved parking lot is roped off, awaiting a not-yet-announced opening date on Sept. 9, at Bud & Rita’s Dispensary, 1598 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore. A developer for the Chicago-based cannabis retail chain has asked the city of Sycamore for approval to install a drive-thru at the location.

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Friday 9/25 & Saturday 9/26 8am -5pm

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Advertising Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise "any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination." Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD 1-800-669-9777 Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275

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TRACTORS- LAWN MOWERS- FARM EQUIPMENT- VEHICLE-PRECISION TOYS- SILVER & GOLD COINS & JEWERLY- THOUSANDS OF SPORTS CARDS, FARM RELATED PRIMITIVES-FOSSILS & LARGE ROCK COLLECTION John Deere 2010 NF Gas, Ford 2000 with loaders, (the following tractors are in various condition engines are free) Tractors Farmall M, IH cub with belly mower, John Deere B, 1929 John Deere GP on steel, Flare & barge wagons, Keen Cutter 3pt Pto 6' rototiller , Mowers: Husquevarna YTH 26V54, Cub Cadet LX 42 XT2 42” deck, Agri fab lawn sweeper, pull type lawn wagons, Yard max rear-tine rototiller, Hand push reel mower, 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis, 80,000 miles, John Deere bicycle, End-gate seeder, 14' Disk W 7.5” spacing , Weber field Pull type sprayer with single 24' boom, Antique farm accessories, Horse drawn equipment, including 2-row John Deere planter, Tractor umbrella, McCormick-Deering, Newark, IL, Chicken Nesting boxes Sev Milk can, Newark, IL & Milk bottle collection, Butter Churns, Fruit Jar collection, Gold Coins inc. $20.00 Indian gold coin & others, 14K gold necklaces, rings, currency, Proof sets, silver, Fossils, crystals, geodes, Sports cards, Safe, 6-pane industrial school windows, 50+ pieces, Bird feeders, Gardening supplies and equipment, Treadle Sewing Machine, Electric sewing machines, sewing notions, Dozens of bins of yarn, Crocheted and knitted Afghans, Knit and crochet supplies, American Girl Doll clothes, some hand-knitted, Mickey Mouse telephone, Pots and pans, Dishes including China set, Midcentury stoneware, wheat and bamboo designs, Glassware, including Wexford and Fostoria, Oneida flatware, Numerous sets, including Twin Star and Heiress, Antique furniture, Buffet, dressers, desk, chairs, tables, misc. Oak dining pedestal table with 6 chairs, Décor, Tools, Indian corn, Bushel baskets, Wood crates, Fence posts & barn lumber, Hard shell gourds, Fishing tackle, LG brand television 50”, 2 platform rockers, Curio cabinets, Intarsia Out door wishing well, Books, including local community and church cookbooks, Newark yearbooks, large library dictionary, Hardbound National geographics, with index Home Décor & furnishings Circus poster- butter churns- cast iron pans & trivets Auctioneer notes: This auction will require multiple auction rings running simultaneously throughout the day. Cleaning out several outbuildings and the house, bring a friend plan to spend the day. Expect updates to Auction Zip regularly with more photos our findings as we discover great items. This Sale features Multi Generations of Anderson who have been on this farm since 1915 Terms: Cash, good check, Credit & Debit cards. Must have proper photo Id to register. All Items selling to best and highest bidder. No property removed until settled for prior to removing from property. Not responsible for items or accidents once sold, all sales are final. NO ITEMS OFFERRED ONLINE. NO BUYERS PREMIUM, Plan to attend ANDERSON FAMILY, OWNERS AUCTIONEERS: Chris Wegener (815)-451-2820, Sandwich IL., Joel Prestegaard, Lee IL & Mike Espe Elburn IL. For photos & more details www.Go2wegenerauctions.com

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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Military & Senior Discounts Available *Includes labor and product; bathtub, shower or walk-in tub and wall surround. This promotion cannot be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. This offer expires 9/30/2026. Each dealership is independently owned and operated. **Third party financing is available for those customers who qualify/Participating dealers only. See your dealer for details. ©2025 Bath Concepts Industries.

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

SUDOKU AND SUPER CROSSWORD ANSWERS ON PAGE 2

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 MIDWEEK