Kane County judges host family reading night

Normally, when a judge reads a ruling or a verdict, one side is happy and the other is not.

That’s a product of civil court or when the state charges someone with a crime.

But this Wednesday, three Kane County judges will read and everyone should be happy.

The annual Family Reading Night with the Judges is 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Kane County Law Library and Self Help Legal Center, on the second floor of the judicial center, 37W777 Route 38, St. Charles.

Library Director Halle Cox said the event is entering its 14th year and began as an offshoot of the Illinois State Library’s Family Reading Night, which is aimed at promoting literacy and family time.

Kane County organizers wanted to introduce people to the courthouse in a positive way.

The night includes three judges reading bedtime stories to kids in second grade and younger, along with a tour of a courtroom.

“We want the general public to be able to see the courthouse and see the judges and have that positive interaction,” Cox said. “Most people, if they’re involved with the court system, it’s not a happy occasion.”

This year, Judges Bruce Lester, Edward Schreiber and Mark Pheanis are the selected readers.

“It’s become such a popular event with the judges, we actually draw names out of a hat,” said Cox, who added that once a name is pulled, it is removed so everyone gets a chance.

Children are encouraged to wear their pajamas. The library staff also wears PJs and snacks are served.

The event is free and no reservations are needed. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For information, call (630) 406-7126.

“It’s just a really fun time,” Cox said. “We have many kids that are repeat customers because they enjoyed it so much.”

A first in DeKalb: Judge Robert Spence, the incoming Chief Judge-Elect of the 16th Judicial Circuit, recently announced DeKalb County Circuit Judge Robbin Stuckert has been appointed Presiding Judge of DeKalb County, effective Dec. 1. Stuckert will be the first woman to serve as Presiding Judge of the county.Stuckert, a 10-year veteran judge who currently hears felony cases, will take over for Judge Kurt Klein, who is retiring. Also that month, DeKalb and Kendall counties will be leaving the 16th Judicial Circuit to form the new 23rd Judicial Circuit.