LOCAL NEWS

By: Encounter Staff

Joliet Public Schools District 86 Receives Education Award

Joliet Public Schools District 86 was named Educational Institute of the Year by the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The district received the award at the Joliet Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Celebration of Success event.

District representatives expressed pride in their work towards excellence and credited their teachers, principals, employees, and community members for the achievement.

The Board of School Inspectors President for the

Popus Gourmet Popcorn Wins Grant Award

On April 18, Popus Gourmet Popcorn received a check from the Joliet Chamber in collaboration with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago’s Community First Accelerate Frants for Small Business.

The program and grants have for purpose to assist the growth of small businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin.

This year, out of the hundreds of businesses that were nominated, only

30 awards were granted.

Popus Gourmet is owned by Walter and Leanne Dean and was opened in October 2017 on 2004 W. Jefferson St. in Joliet.

They will use the grant to purchase a new popcorn machine and ventless hood system for its two locations on Jefferson Street and on Joliet’s West side.

Joliet Public Schools District 86, Erick Deshaun Dorris, said, “I am proud to be a part of a school district that is working towards excellence. This recognition is a result of all the work being done by our teachers, principals, employees, and community members.”

The district, which serves almost 9,800 students in Joliet, Illinois, was one of four organizations nominated for the award and submitted a comprehensive application to be considered.