Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Monday, February 16, 2026
Publishing Portal--February 16, 2026
The latest news from Eckhartz Press, and a chance to peek into some of the great previous offerings from our humble little publishing company.
=Huge event coming up soon for Nick Digilio at the Museum of Broadcast Communications...
Celebrate Oscar Sunday with legendary Chicago film critic and broadcaster Nick Digilio, hosted live by WGN Radio’s Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune columnist and cultural icon. For more than four decades, Nick has entertained audiences through his 35-year career at WGN Radio, where his movie reviews and commentary made him one of Chicago’s most trusted voices in film. Today, he continues that legacy through his two hit podcasts, The Nick D Podcast and That Show Hasn’t Been Funny in Years: An SNL Podcast.
This special live event will feature Nick’s Oscar predictions, insights from his four decades reviewing films, and reflections from his new book, 40 Years, 40 Films. This deeply personal collection features essays on his favorite film from each year, along with his Top 10 lists and stories from his lifelong journey as a passionate moviegoer and respected critic. The program includes a live on-stage conversation, audience Q&A, and book signing.
Museum admission applies. For tickets, visit museum.tv
=Nick Digilio's pick at the Lake Theater in Oak Park this month was the film Crash. Thanks to everyone who came out last Wednesday night to see the film and pick up a copy of Nick's book.
=Have we mentioned that Nick is also writing his follow up book for us about horror movies? That will be out later this year. More info to come.
=Chili Dog MVP co-author John Owens checked in about the progress of his film/TV project based on their book. Eckhartz Press publishers Rick Kaempfer and Dave Stern will be traveling down to Arizona for the debut showing there on March 12. Wanna come? I understand there might some spring training games nearby.
=The poster they came up with for this upcoming series of events is amazing. We'll let John Owens explain...
=An entertaing Q&A with Bob Williams
=Jeff Reiter was hanging out with some superstars from the birding world over the weekend at the Gull Frolic in Winthrop Harbor. Only three authors were invited to participate; Jeff Reiter (The Best of Words on Birds), Dexter Patterson (Birds of the Great Lakes and featured speaker), and Amar Ayyash (The Gull Guide, and the nation's leading expert on gull ID).
=Today's the day the book ships to those of you who pre-ordered it.
=Jim Elsener did a great job on WBEZ on Tuesday talking about it. Listen to it here.
Jim: Thanks to Sasha-Ann Simons (holding “Sirens in the Loop A History of the City News Bureau of Chicago) who moderated our panel discussion about CNB this morning on WBEZ 91.5 FM. Joining me were alumni Rummana Hussain and Abdon Pallasch. I think we made Good Radio.
=Jim will be a guest this week on Minutia Men Celebrity Interview.
=Your chance to meet Mark Wukas is tonight, February 16th at 7:30pm. A musical guest is appearing, too—and it’s free admission. No cover! Come out for a fun evening. Welcome to the Show at the Getaway (4530 N. Lincoln Avenue).
=Vicki Atkinson (Surviving Sue) will be appearing at Wauconda Library (11am-12:30pm) on February 20. Unfortunately, it's sold out.
=On the other hand, her debut novel "Slivers" is now also in the pipeline at Eckhartz Press, and is coming out very soon. If you are a fan of Vicki, you'll love it. What's it all about? See if this intrigues you...
In a single week in the
summer of 1973, a quiet suburban neighborhood implodes when generations of
mystical deceit become too much to bear. Drawn to the web of secrets and lies,
the other worldly slivers refuse to be ignored, pushing one family to
the brink.
]=The Loop Files author Rick Kaempfer is appearing at a book club in the northwestern suburbs of Chicago on February 23.
=Chili Dog MVP--Two upcoming appearances promoting their new film in Pennsylvania. March 5 in Philadelphia, March 7 in Wampum Pennsylvania
=Nick Digilio--Nick's Pix at the Lake Theater on March 11 in Oak Park. The film will be Zero Dark Thirty.
=Lauren LoGiudice (Inside Melania) brings her Misfit Variety show to the Annoyance March 13. Show's at 9.
=Robert Conlon will also be appearing at the G-man (on Clark in Chicago) on March 15.
=Mark Wukas will be doing a reading at CWA Live Lit readings at After Words Book Store on March 26.
=Would you believe that one of the stars of The Loop Files, former Loop personality Kevin Matthews, met Pope Leo this week? It's true. This is not an AI picture. Kevin is a devout Catholic who created a film called "Broken Mary" about a broken statue of the Virgin Mary that he found. He makes appearances at churches around the country with the statue, and talks about how much it affected him. This week, he talked to the Pope about it. The Pope blessed the statue. Not too shabby.
=Saturday's birthday girl (Feb 14) Eckhartz Press author Janet Sutherland was honored last week. She was named Spring VIP for 2026 by POWER, an organization of professional women, for her outstanding contributions and achievements in the media industry. Congrats to Janet. (More info here)
=Janet has another book coming out via Eckhartz Press later this year.
The Sun at the End of the Road
=A very important person in Tony Fitzpatrick's life, director Jonathan Demme, was born this week (February 22, 1944). Demme was an early champion of Tony's art, and later cast him in a few of his films (Married to the Mob, Philadelphia). Tony also designed the soundtrack cover for Demme's film Something Wild. Hard to believe that both Tony and Jonathan are gone now.
Worth a Second Look & Oscars Biggest Mistakes
=Eckhartz Press author Eric Litt has a day job working at WGN-TV. Naturally when you work there you'll run into the biggest star at the station (photo). He may be retired now, but Tom Skilling is celebrating a birthday this week (February
20).
=We dig the video...
=Here's one from the archives. This week in 1977 (February 16), Genesis performed at the Auditorium in Chicago. That show was presented by The Flip Side's concert arm. The Rosenbaum brothers Carl and Larry pose backstage with the band.
=Daily Herald writer Jim Slusher's book To Nudge the World is a collection of his excellent essays from the newspaper over the past 25 years. The one he wrote this week in 2000 (February 17) seems to really have resonance today. It's about something that has slowly eroded in the years since it was written, objective reporting. That piece alone is worth the price of admission. It's an award winner, folks. Book of the Year.
Happy birthday Michael Jordan!
=The greatest player in basketball history appears in several Eckhartz Press books. As he turns 63 (February 17), we imagine him perusing the pages of Your Dime, My Dance Floor by Chet Coppock or Life Behind the Camera by Chuck Quinzio.
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=This was the week in 2014 when Joel Daly began making the rounds to promote his book The Daly News. The book got a great review from Robert Feder (Feb 19). And then Joel appeared on the WGN-TV Morning News. (Feb 20)
Records Truly is My Middle Name
=Two of the most memorable stories in John Landecker's memoir Records Truly Is My Middle Name involve two men who are both celebrating a birthday this week (Feb 18), Dennis DeYoung (Styx) and John Travolta. Dennis tells the tale about the first time he heard his song "Lady" on the radio. It was played by John Landecker on WLS. Dennis really paints a picture of the excitement of the moment. But probably the best story in the book revolves around a John Landecker/John Travolta appearance at Woodfield Mall. It's captured here on tape. It's captured below in a photograph.
=This week in 2016 (February 19), Rich King joined the Chicago Blackhawks at the White House as they visited President Obama. This photo from that day (with fellow sportscaster Jim Rose) appears in the pages of Rich's 2022 memoir Ike & Me.
=This week in 2022, with the pandemic still not fully contained, Bob Boone made an appearance at The Book Stall in Winnetka. Masks were still required.
=This week in 2022 (Feb 19), Randy Merkin also made an appearance in Homewood, Illinois to promote his book. A few photos are here. Former Bears receiver Tom Waddle, who is celebrating a birthday this week (Feb 20), had this to say about Randy...“Randy is an incredible radio talent. His vast knowledge of the business and bottomless pool of contacts are unmatched. I’ve learned a lot about the business from Randy. His talent is only exceeded by his loyalty and integrity. Randy is the best!!!”
=You know who else loves Randy? Another person celebrating a birthday this week (February 20). A man who rates his own chapter in Behind the Glass, Charles Barkley (shown below with Randy).
=This week in 2022 was a busy one, because Ryan Trembath also released the audiobook version of his book Signature Shoes (February 20). You can find it here.
=Randy Richardson and Becky Sarwate interviewed comedian/actor Ike Barinholtz for their Eckhartz Press book Cubsessions. Ike tells the story of his love for his hometown Cubs. Happy birthday Ike! (Feb 18)
=Does Randy Richardson have another book coming soon on Eckhartz Press? Why yes he does. Stay tuned for more information.
=This week in 2012, Rick and Brendan did a presentation about using improv techniques to write. You can see a little bit of that here. One big fan of the book, CSI star William Petersen is celebrating a birthday this week (Feb 21). This is what he had to say about Eckhartz Press's debut release...…a hell of an old-fashioned read. It brings to life ‘the city of broad shoulders’ and makes me homesick. I want a Billy Goat cheesborger and a shot of whiskey.
Valentine's Day special
Sunday, February 15, 2026
Friday, February 13, 2026
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
The Sweetest Words
Monday, February 09, 2026
Publishing Portal--February 9, 2026
The latest news from Eckhartz Press, and a chance to peek into some of the great previous offerings from our humble little publishing company.
INTRODUCING: Bubble Boy
=The latest book from Eckhartz Press is available for pre-order now. It's a hilarious and poignant memoir written by Robert Forrest Williams. Who is he?
Robert Forrest Williams (AKA “Wilbur”) is a husband, father, and retired businessman. Born into a typical middle-class family, he has spent his life in the Chicago area searching for his own raison d’etre. From early youth through high school, college, and professional life he waged a battle with the original four-letter word– Work. Over years and decades this personal struggle has taken him through various business environments as well as the standup comedy stage. This everyman existence has provided unique experiences, abetting his sense of humor and natural story-telling ability. Bubble Boy is Robert/Wilbur’s first published work.
=What is the book about?
Bubble Boy is Robert Forrest Williams’ story of his yearning for self-definition and personal growth. In his early 20’s he was admittedly treading water at best. Taking cues from “Superstar” friends, he gets back on track via Graduate School and as a Human Resources Officer at a major financial institution. Unfortunately, the yuppie lifestyle results in disillusionment. He finds himself at a crossroads. A new career in Executive Recruiting – “Headhunting” – sets him on a clearer path, but also into a world of dubious business practices – shockingly described herein. Set against the backdrop of technological advances and iconic American events, the author takes the reader through a variety of personal experiences – some absurdly hilarious, some sad, and some ironic. He reminds us that our own “perfect spheres of being” can only thrive under the right circumstances. Bubbles can form and change directions –hopefully for the better – before their ultimate demise.
=One of the champions of Bob's book is fellow comedian and Eckhartz Press author Dobie Maxwell...
Bob Williams may be a common name, but this particular one happens to be quite the unique blend of both talent and passion. His writing, comedic and “normal” (whatever that may be) is always worth reading. I told him I would proudly purchase a copy of any book he ever wrote. Having saved aluminum cans since 1997 I can now make good on that promise! Everybody move your cans and experience “Bubble Boy” for yourself!
The Sun at the End of the Road
=Thanks to everyone who joined the Great Chicago Books Bookclub with the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame on Friday night. We had a great time talking about our old friend Tony Fitzpatrick and celebrating the writing in his book The Sun at the End of the Road. Here's a screenshot of the panelists (Mark Eleveld, Ann Filmer, Thomas Dyja, Dave Hoekstra), the moderators (Rick Kaempfer, David Stern), and the folks from the Hall of Fame (Don Evans and Reese). It really was an excellent discussion. Over 100 people were on the zoom, including a few dignitaries like Rick Kogan, Michelle Fitzpatrick (Tony's wife), and Max Fitzpatrick (Tony's son). The video is below the screen-grab.
=At the end of the zoom, Rick and Dave made an announcement. There will be another Tony Fitzpatrick book coming out in the fall. He wrote a book of Haikus at the same time he was writing his last book, and that will be released in October, along with his artwork, handpicked by Tony himself.
=Our book about the history of the City News Bureau is currently being printed and bound and will be sent out in the coming week or so. If you've pre-ordered, look for it in the mail. If you haven't pre-ordered, you can still do so here.
=Jim Elsener will be appearing on WBEZ (NPR) tomorrow morning between 9:40-10am (with Sasha Ann Simons on "In the Loop") to talk about the book. Listen if you can. He's really good on the air.
=This week is the anniversary of one of the biggest stories the City News Bureau of Chicago ever broke. It happened on February 14, 1929. It's remembered as the St. Valentines Day Massacre. Sirens in the Loop tells the story of how that went down.
To the Men I've Loved (God Help Them!)
=Pat Motto's entertaining memoir about her dysfunctional love life is now also available at amazon as an e-book! Get your kindle copy here.
4 Opportunities to Get Your Eckhartz Books This Week!
=Nick Digilio is hosting "Nick's Pix" at Lake Theater in Oak Park on Wednesday night (February 11th) at 7pm. This month's pick is the film Crash. Yes, he will be selling copies of his book at the screening.
An Assortment
=Eckhartz Press co-publisher David Stern will be appearing at KinoWerks (5645 N. Ravenswood in Chicago) this Saturday, February 14th. He'll have a table selling an assortment of Eckhartz Press books at their Arts Event that day. Look for his beaming smile.
=Don't forget that Jeff Reiter (The Best of Words on Birds) will be appearing at the great birder event, Gull Frolic in Winthrop Harbor, on February 15. That's this coming Sunday! (Unfortunately the event is sold out--but if you're already going, look for Jeff)
=That's Mark Wukas below, exactly one year ago, the day he received his first copy of his book The Kiss of Night. It's a great Chicago novel. Your chance to meet Mark is coming a week from tonight, February 16th. He will be appearing at Welcome to the Show at the Getaway (4530 N. Lincoln Avenue).
Additional upcoming Eckhartz Press author events. Mark your calenders...
=Vicki Atkinson (Surviving Sue) will be appearing at Wauconda Library (11am-12:30pm) on February 20. Vicki's debut novel Slivers is in the pipeline, getting very close to publication on Eckhartz Press.
=Lauren LoGiudice (Inside Melania) brings her Misfit Variety show to the Annoyance March 13. Show's at 9.
=The film is going to be shown soon in Chicago (keep looking here for details). In the meantime, the fellas have been busy filming promotional videos like this one...
=Jeffrey and Michael Gentile's book Mob Adjacent is a compelling look at the intersection of Chicago's mob world and some of the Hollywood Stars of that era. Among them, the great Jimmy Durante (Born Feb 10, 1893)
=Chili Dog MVP co-author John Owens checked in about the progress of his film/TV project based on their book....
Thanks to John Bracanelli, @Jacob Pomrenke and the Chicago SABR chapter for hosting the My Father, Dick Allen team Saturday morning at the LaGrange Public Library, where we previewed the first episode ("Wampum") of the five-part docuseries. More previews coming up in March in Arizona and Philadelphia, along with a major event at the Chicago History Museum later this spring.
=Book of the Year winner Jim Slusher talks journalism with Rick and Dave on the Minutia Men Celebrity Interview.
=One half of the Rosenbaum brothers (Larry) did himself proud last year around this time in this Minutia Men Celebrity Interview. Some of the fabulous stories from the book are included in the entertaining interview.
=This week in 2015, Chicagoland Radio & Media reviewed and previewed Kipper McGee's new book Brandwidth. Some great info about a well respected book here.
=The Loop Files features some of Chicago's all-time broadcasting greats. One of those talented broadcasters is celebrating a birthday this week (February 12), Wendy Snyder. She tells some great stories in the book and also provided a few photos from her early days, including this one...
=This week in 2018, the Sun-Times parted ways with entertainment reporter Bill Zwecker. Before he left his perch, Bill had this to say about the Eckhartz Press book Life Behind The Camera: This is a must read for anyone interested in learning about the world of TV journalism — as seen through the eyes (and lens!) of Chuck Quinzio — one of the best in the business. Reading Chuck’s many stories — well-spiced with his terrific dry wit — is a great way to discover how television photo-journalism has evolved from the 1980s to the present day. That said, Chuck’s often-hilarious tales about the foibles of the true characters he’s encountered these past three decades makes for wonderful reading.
=This week in 1964 (February 9), the Beatles made their debut on the Ed Sullivan Show. Chuck Quinzio tells a very funny story about that night in Life Behind the Camera. You can read that free excerpt here.
Records Truly Is My Middle Name
=Chuck Quinzio (above) isn't the only one with a humorous Beatles on Ed Sullivan story. John Landecker has one too. You can read that free excerpt here.
=Speaking of John Landecker, when he published his award-winning memoir Records Truly is My Middle Name, he never dreamt that it would satisfy the final requirement for his college degree. Despite his Hall of Fame radio career, John had never gotten his college degree. His Alma Mater Grand Valley State University did some research into his transcripts and realized he just needed one more writing course. Writing a book certainly qualified. So, this week in 2018, John was awarded his degree. Rick Kaempfer wrote about that for Illinois Entertainer. This is John on graduation day.
=This week in 2018, Lee Kingsmill was also making the rounds doing interviews. Lee (photo) is widely respected as a writer. Fellow author Michael Lister said this...
“The best books expand our humanity by the vicarious experiences and opportunities for compassion they provide. Lee Kingsmill’s Safe Inside is just such a book. It’s rich and textured, filled with family dynamics, religion, sexuality, the refuge of the imagination, the sanctuary of movies, and most of all, the depth, truthfulness, and complexity of humanity.”
=Eckhartz Press has a retired judge in our stable of authors. Judge Michael Bender's book Protecting Children came out in 2018 and was featured this week in the Chicago Tribune.
Everything I Know I Learned From Rock Stars
=Author Bill Paige conducted hundreds of interviews with rock stars from 1975-1995. Two of them are celebrating birthdays this week, Peter Gabriel (Feb 13) and Gary Clark Jr. (Feb 15). Their stories are featured in Bill's timeless book.
=Another great Eckhartz Press book about rock and roll is Bobby Skafish's acclaimed We Have Company. Bobby dedicates a chapter in his book to native Chicagoan, Doors organist Ray Manzarek (photo below--Ray on the left). Ray was born this week (February 12) in 1939.
=When Brendan Sullivan and Rick Kaempfer formulated the story line of The Living Wills using improvisation techniques, they were surprised that the actor Lorne Greene was referenced repeatedly. You never know what will come out in improv. In particular, this song became an important plot point. Happy heavenly birthday Lorne (February 12), and thanks for the subliminal inspiration.