CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Organizers of the 2026 Ebert Symposium at the Spurlock Museum announced that the Presidential Medallion Ceremony scheduled for tonight has been canceled. Chaz, who was to be honored, is unable to attend due to a family emergency.

Despite the cancellation, the symposium’s reception prior to the evening film screening of The Wiz will continue as planned from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Guests are invited to attend the reception to mark the official kickoff of the annual event.

Organizers expressed that Chaz is “truly disappointed” to miss the ceremony and encouraged attendees to join in celebrating the start of the symposium. The film screening will follow the reception, providing a festive conclusion to the evening’s activities.