DDC_Pumpkin Festival_101619 by Shaw Media

58th Annual

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival October 23-27, 2019

Wild West Pumpkin Fest

DAILY CHRONICLE

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

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PUMPKIN FEST 2019

By KATRINA J.E. MILTON kmilton@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – Jerome Perez, a director of the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Committee, said that viewing the decorated pumpkins on the DeKalb County Courthouse lawn is his favorite part of fall. “I always like the decorated pumpkin display the best at Pumpkin Fest,” Perez said. “Every year, the pumpkins are different. I love seeing the effort everyone puts into their designs. There’s amazing artwork from every age, from kids through adults. The pumpkins and the different theme every year are what make the festival unique.” The 58th annual Sycamore Pumpkin Festival will run Wednesday, Oct. 24, through Sunday, Oct. 27. This year’s theme is “Wild West Pumpkin Fest,” chosen by Hannah Anderson, a first-grader at Southeast Elementary School. This year’s parade grand marshal is the 2019 Class 3A State Champion Sycamore High School softball team. The Sycamore Pumpkin Festival began in 1961 as a fundraiser project for the Sycamore Lions Club by Wally Thurow, who had the idea of a decorated pumpkin contest. The first year, the Lions Club received about 300 entries. The event expanded to include a food booth, pie-eating contest and a dance at the armory. Community groups were involved with different events. The Sycamore Pumpkin Fest Committee became a nonprofit organization in 1976, and in 1996, the committee took over the parade. “The event is run by nonprofit organizations for nonprofits,” Perez said. “There are no commercial groups at the event. It’s a great way for the community to get to know different local groups and organizations.” This year’s Pumpkin Fest kicks off Wednesday with the decorated pumpkin check-in on the DeKalb County Courthouse lawn from 4 to 9 p.m. Pumpkins will remain on the courthouse lawn until Halloween, Oct. 31. The opening ceremony, including the cutting of a giant cake donated by Hy-Vee, will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday events include the Sycamore Kiwanis Prayer Breakfast at Sycamore United Methodist Church from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and a pumpkin celebration for children in kindergarten through fifth grade at the Sycamore Public Library at 6 p.m.

Shaw Media file photos

Decorated pumpkins cover the lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse in 2018.

LEFT: The 2018 Pick of the Patch winner was Keegan Palm. RIGHT: Susan Lloyd, Jenny Ruff and Kelly Ostrom won first place in the Adults (Carved, Scarecrow, General) division in the 2018 Sycamore Lions Decorated Pumpkin Display contest. Friday marks the beginning of two carnivals – one for kids at Somonauk and Elm streets and a teen carnival at Sacramento and State streets. On Friday and Saturday there will

be a show of “50 Quality Crafters” at Sycamore United Methodist Church, 160 Johnson Ave., and a craft and vendor show will be held at Cornerstone Christian Academy, 355 N.

Cross St., on Saturday. The Autumn Craft and Treasures Market at Sycamore High School will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. On Saturday, the DeKalb County History Center’s Historic Homes Tour will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with tickets costing $25 each or $40 for two. Tickets are available at the DeKalb County History Center, the Sycamore Chamber office, Sweet Earth Jewelry and at each home on the day of the walk. Marquee events on Saturday include Hermanos Escamilla’s trick rope show performances at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., stilt walker and juggler Pete Kovacevich from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and strolling magician Jeff Bibek from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Sycamore Kiwanis pie-eating contest will be held on the courthouse lawn at 4 p.m. The Sycamore Chamber 10,000-Meter Road Run starts at 9:05 a.m. Sunday at the Sycamore Armory. The Pumpkin Festival Parade kicks off at 1 p.m. and travels along Somonauk, Elm, California, State and Main streets. For more information about the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest, visit www. sycamorepumpkinfestival.com.

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

Decorated pumpkins make fest unique

Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

undreds of “Wild West Pumpkin Fest” entries will be on display during Sycamore’s annual Pumpkin Festival at the DeKalb County Courthouse near the intersection of State and Main streets in downtown Sycamore. Activities are planned for every day of the festival, lasting from Wednesday through Sunday, with shuttle buses planned for Saturday, the peak craft show day, and Sunday, the day of the parade.

Saturday, Oct. 19 • Free pumpkins provided by Dennis and Jill Jagodzinski will be available at 10 a.m. at the Wally Thurow Tribute Statue, located at Somonauk and Elm streets. • Ghost Stories in the Park will be shared from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Sycamore Park Community Center. There will be activities, crafts and a photo booth. Phyllis Horst will tell ghost stories on the patio from 6 to 6:45 p.m. All ages welcome.

Wednesday, Oct. 23 • The Lions Club food trailer will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the corner of Maple and State streets. • Lions Club’s pumpkin check-in will take place from 4 to 9 p.m. on the courthouse lawn. • The opening ceremony will start at 5 p.m. on North Maple Street, adjacent to the courthouse. It will include the ceremony for the cutting of the giant cake donated by Hy-Vee.

Thursday, Oct. 24 • Sycamore Kiwanis will host a prayer breakfast at 7 a.m. at Sycamore United Methodist Church, 160 Johnson Ave. • Pumpkin displays can be viewed on the lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse on State Street. • The Lions Club food trailer will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the corner of Maple and State streets. • A free Pumpkin Celebration will be held at Sycamore Public Library at 6 p.m. Children in kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to come in costume and enjoy games, story time and treats.

Friday, Oct. 25 Activities and events • Pumpkin displays can be viewed on the lawn of the DeKalb County Court-

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS house on State Street. • A craft show will be hosted from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. by Sycamore United Methodist Church, 160 Johnson Ave. Food also will be available. • The teen carnival will be open from 3 to 10 p.m. at Sacramento and State streets. A $25 unlimited ride special is available from 3 to 7 p.m. • The kiddie carnival for young children will be open from 3 to 10 p.m. at the parking lot at Somonauk and Elm streets. A $25 ride special is available from 3 to 7 p.m. • The Midwest Museum of Natural History will present Cockroaches and Reptiles! at the South Food Court.

Craft and merchandise vendors • ABC Preschool will sell Pumpkin Festival flags at Paulsen Appliance, 245 W. State St., Sweet Earth, 341 W. State St., and at the SUMC craft show from noon to 4 p.m. • Royal Rangers will have Pumpkin Festival buttons, patches and hats from 4 to 8 p.m. • Bethel Assembly of God will have stainless steel tumblers from 4 to 8 p.m. in front of Blue Moon Bikes, 211 W. State St., and at the church, 131 W. Elm St.

Food vendors • The Lions Club food trailer will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the corner of Maple and State streets. • Sycamore Kiwanis will offer roasted nuts and bubble tea in the North Food Court from 2 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 26 Activities and events • Rotary Pancake Breakfast will be served from 7 a.m. to noon at St. Mary Parish Center, 312 Waterman St. • Pumpkin displays can be viewed on the lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse on State Street. • Oaken Acres Wildlife Center will have live birds from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in front of Taxco Restaurant, 223 W. State St. • The Sycamore Golf Club Pumpkin Scramble will begin at 10 a.m. at the Sycamore Golf Club, 940 E. State St. For registration, call 815-895-3884. • The Lions Club pumpkin display awards will be at 10 a.m. on the lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse on State Street. • The DeKalb County History Center

Historic Homes Tour will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets cost $25 each or $40 for two. They are available at the History Center, 1730 N. Main St.; the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce, 407 W. State St.; Sweet Earth, 341 W. State St., and at each home on the day of the walk. For information, call 815895-5762. • The Sycamore High Art Club will offer face painting from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kiddie Carnival. • The teen carnival will be open from noon to 10 p.m. at Sacramento and State streets. A $25 ride special is available from noon to 4 p.m. • The kiddie carnival for young children will be held from noon to 10 p.m. at the parking lot at Somonauk and Elm streets. A $25 ride special is available from noon to 4 p.m. • The Marquee Saturday Events will be held from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It is sponsored by First State Bank, Old State Bank and ServiceMaster by Skip. Hermanos Escamilla will perform a trick rope show at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in the North Food Court. Pete Kovacevich, roaming stilt walker and juggler, will perform from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Strolling magician Jeff Bibek will perform from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. • The Kiwanis will host a pie-eating contest at 4 p.m. on the lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse on State Street. • The Midwest Museum of Natural History will present Cockroaches and Reptiles! at the South Food Court.

Craft and merchandise vendors • A craft show will be hosted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. by Sycamore United Methodist Church at 160 Johnson Ave. Food also will be available. • Cornerstone Christian Academy, 355 N. Cross St., will host a craft and vendor show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. • The Autumn Craft & Treasures Market, hosted by Sycamore Music Boosters, will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Sycamore High School Fieldhouse. • Royal Rangers will have Pumpkin Festival buttons, patches and hats from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Bethel Assembly of God will have stainless steel tumblers from 4 to 8 p.m. in front of Blue Moon Bikes, 211 W. State St., and at the church, 131 W. Elm St. • Tails Humane Society will offer dog treats and dog costumes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• ABC Preschool will sell Pumpkin Festival flags at Paulsen Appliance, 245 W. State St., Sweet Earth, 341 W. State St., and at the SUMC craft show from noon to 4 p.m. • Cross Roads Community Church will sell gift baskets and magnets.

Food vendors • A food booth hosted by St. Mary’s Catholic Church will be open in front of Blue Moon Bikes, 211 W. State St., from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. • The Gracie Center will sell popcorn and bottled water in the South Food Court from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • The DeKalb County Shrine Club will offer pork chop sandwiches in front of P.J.’s Courthouse Tavern and Grille, 202 W. State St., from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. • The Odd Fellows will sell hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, chili, pulled pork and onion rings from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Moose Lodge of Sycamore will offer deep-fried twinkies, baked goods, brats, corn dogs, pretzels and chili from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sycamore Kiwanis will offer roasted nuts and bubble tea in the North Food Court from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Boy Scout Troop 40 will serve loaded baked potatoes, hot dogs and cookies from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. • A burger and soup luncheon will be served from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bethel Assembly of God, 131 W. Elm St. • The Sycamore Angels Rebekah Lodge will offer funnel cakes, cotton candy and soups in the North Food Court from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • A burger and soup luncheon will be served from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bethel Assembly of God, 131 W. Elm St. • The Sycamore Rugby Club will offer pork shanks and mac and cheese from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. across from the courthouse. • Boy Scout Troop 16 will serve pulled pork, pizza, hot dogs, baked beans and baked goods from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the North Food Court. • Aurora Christian/Cornerstone Campus will offer walking tacos and baked goods in the North Food Court from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. • The Sycamore Elks Club will offer pulled pork, pulled turkey, chili, and mac and cheese from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. across from the courthouse. See EVENTS, page 5

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS From page 4 • The Lions Club food trailer will have hot dogs, barbecue, hamburgers, brats, pork chops and pumpkin pie from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the corner of Maple and State streets.

Sunday, Oct. 27 Activities and events • Pumpkin displays can be viewed on the lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse on State Street. • The Sycamore Pumpkin Run 10K Road Race starts at 9:05 a.m. at the Sycamore Armory. For information, visit pumpkinrunsycamore.com. • The teen carnival will be open from noon to 5 p.m. at Sacramento and State streets. A $25 ride special is available. Check for times at the carnival. • The kiddie carnival for young children will be open from noon to 5 p.m. at the parking lot at Somonauk and Elm streets. A $25 ride special is available. Check for times at the carnival.

• The Pumpkin Parade will begin at 1 p.m. A handicapped-parking area is located at the corner of Exchange and Main streets. A viewing area for the handicapped has been established at the intersection of State and Main streets. The parade route follows Somonauk, Elm, California, State and Main streets.

Craft and merchandise vendors • Royal Rangers will have Pumpkin Festival buttons, patches and hats from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Oaken Acres Wildlife Center will offer artwork, calendars, cat toys, feeders and honey from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in front of Taxco Restaurant, 223 W. State St. • The Autumn Craft & Treasures Market, hosted by Sycamore Music Boosters, will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sycamore High School Field House. • Bethel Assembly of God will have stainless steel tumblers from 9 a.m. to noon in front of Blue Moon Bikes, 211 W. State St., and at the church, 131 W. Elm St. • The Sycamore VFW Auxiliary will offer patriotic coloring pages and small

flags from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the legion, 121 S. California St.

Food vendors • The DeKalb County Shrine Club will offer pork chop sandwiches in front of P.J.’s Courthouse Tavern and Grille, 202 W. State St., from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sycamore Kiwanis will offer roasted nuts and bubble tea in the North Food Court from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Boy Scout Troop 40 will serve loaded baked potatoes, hot dogs and cookies from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. • A burger and soup luncheon will be served from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bethel Assembly of God, 131 W. Elm St. • Moose Lodge of Sycamore will offer deep-fried twinkies, baked goods, brats, corn dogs, pretzels and chili from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. • The Sycamore Angels Rebekah Lodge will offer funnel cakes, cotton candy and soups in the North Food Court from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. • The Odd Fellows will sell hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, chili, pulled pork and onion rings from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• The Sycamore Rugby Club will offer pork shanks and mac and cheese from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. across from the courthouse. • Boy Scout Troop 16 will serve pulled pork, pizza, hot dogs, bake beans and baked goods from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the North Food Court. • A food booth hosted by St. Mary’s Catholic Church will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in front of Blue Moon Bikes, 211 W. State St. • Aurora Christian/Cornerstone Campus will offer walking tacos and baked goods in the North Food Court from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. • St. Peter’s Episcopal Church will offer brats, hot dogs, pumpkin squares and candy from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 218 Somonauk St. • The Sycamore Elks Club will offer pulled pork, pulled turkey, chili, and mac and cheese from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. across from the courthouse. • The Lions Club food trailer will have hot dogs, barbecue, hamburgers, brats, pork chops and pumpkin pie from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the corner of Maple and State streets.

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SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

• EVENTS

GRAND MARSHAL

SHS softball state champs to lead parade By KATRINA J.E. MILTON kmilton@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – When the Sycamore Spartans High School softball team won the 2019 IHSA Class 3A State Champion title on June 8, the team was welcomed home with a parade. The state champions, riding on a school bus, were escorted back to town by the Sycamore police and fire departments. On Sunday, Oct. 27, the team will once again parade through downtown Sycamore, this time as the grand marshals of the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Parade. The parade, sponsored by Ideal Industries, will kick off at 1 p.m. The parade starts on Somonauk street and will continue along Elm, California, State and Main streets. According to Sycamore Pumpkin Festival’s website, the festival committee chose the team as the parade’s grand marshals to recognize them “for their hard work and effort throughout the season culminating [in] the state

championship.” This year was the Spartans’ first appearance in the state tournament. The team’s route to the title included a dramatic come-from-behind 12-11 win against Mt. Zion and a shutout 3-0 win against St. Francis. The team’s coach, Jill Carpenter, described the opportunity as “unexpected and a huge honor.” “It’s such a surreal experience for the girls,” Carpenter said. “Everyone is so excited to represent the school, the softball program and the community.” The parade also will be a reunion for the team: eight of the 13 team members were graduating seniors. All 13 players are planning to return for the parade. The state trophy will join the players and coaches on the parade float. “Pumpkin Fest is a like a holiday here in Sycamore, it’s important to the entire community and DeKalb County,” Carpenter said. “It’s a homegrown, hometown festival, and we’re excited and honored to lead the parade.”

Keeping community in banking

Shaw Media file photo

The Spartans tease their coach Jill Carpenter (off camera) after winning the Class 3A State Softball Championship in East Peoria on June 8. The team has been chosen as the grand marshal of the Pumpkin Festival Parade.

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Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

FRIEND OF THE FEST

By KEVIN SOLARI ksolari@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – Kirk Lundbeck said he was surprised when he received the call telling him he was going to be this year’s Friend of the Festival for the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival. It was not something he’d ever expected. “I do what I do and I help when I can,” Lundbeck said. He’s been superintendent of Golf Services at the Sycamore Park District for 22 years, and each year he allows the use of golf carts to the festival organizers and volunteers to help them get around the festival area. “It’s our way for the park district and golf course to be a part of Pumpkin Fest that brings so many people to town,” Lundbeck said. Lundbeck moved to Sycamore with his family when he was in sixth grade, and his family has grown up here. Even when he was away from town, working as a golf pro in other states, Sycamore was not far from his mind.

member of the Sycamore High School Band, Northern Illinois band and the golf cart drill team – where he taught people how to drive the golf carts in figure-eights along the parade route. For Pumpkin Festival, Lundbeck said he maintains the golf carts like he would any other day. The golf course also holds the Pumpkin Scramble every year, something Lundbeck came up with. Tee markers are in the shape of pumpkins and a special lunch is served, as well. He said people will play in all kinds of weather, from 80 degrees and sunny to snow flurries. He said people start asking him as early as March when the scramble will be, and that it fills up pretty quickly. It’s one more way the festival Kevin Solari - ksolari@shawmedia.com is about family, he said, with parents Kirk Lundbeck was named Friend of the Festival for the 2019 Sycamore Pumpkin Festival. being able to go to the golf event while kids enjoy the festival. But all of that is just part of living “When this job opened up 22 years kin Festival, is all about family. in Sycamore. ago, there was nothing more that I “Sycamore is a part of who I am,” “Anybody from Sycamore will say wanted than to come back to Sycahe said. Pumpkin Fest is about all of us,” he more,” he said. He said he can’t count how many He said Sycamore, and the Pumptimes he’s been in the parade as a said.

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SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

Lundbeck says he just does what anyone would

JUNIOR MARSHALS

Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

Six students chosen for Pumpkin Parade honor SHAW MEDIA Six Sycamore students will receive a free ride during this year’s Pumpkin Festival Parade. The students have been selected as junior marshals by the Sycamore Kiwanis Club. Winners are chosen from students who participate in the Kiwanis Club’s annual writing contest, which is divided into poem, story and theme categories. The top two finishers in each category are selected as junior marshals and have an opportunity to ride in the Kiwanis Club’s float during the Oct. 27 parade. Students who entered the contest were asked to write about the festival’s theme of “Wild West Pumpkin Fest,” or about Halloween in Sycamore. The winners also receive a cash award. A total of 27 students from Sycamore Middle School and St. Mary’s School submitted entries. Winners were treated to lunch at Culver’s, followed by a picture-taking session at Johnson’s Pumpkin Patch in Sycamore. Katrina J.E. Milton - kmilton@shawmedia.com In addition to the Junior Marshal Pumpkin Fest Junior Marshals pose for a photo at Johnson’s Pumpkin Patch. Students were selected based on stories, essays and poems writing contest, the Kiwanis Club of they wrote. Pictured (from left) Reese West, Anaya DeCleene, Natasha Inocencio, Giana Huffstutler, Kira Collins and Jacqueline Schwartz. Sycamore sponsors a pie-eating contest. In this contest, the contestants must eat a wedge of pumpkin pie withUntil the next day when their own- like I came right out of a book.” The grub, the games and all the out using their hands. The contest is ers arrived. Finally catching up, Iris stopped to rides, open to the public, with age brackets With that in mind they all had a catch her breath. “It sure does,” she the cowboys got the yeehaw vibes. of 5 and younger, 6-10, 11-15 and 16 and good time. continued after a moment. Sycamore becomes the wild fronolder. Prizes are $5 for first place, $4 And partied their seeds out before Everyone was wearing their nortier, for second place, $3 for third place and the bells chime. mal attire: worn-out jeans, overalls, this only can happen once a year. $2 for fourth place in each division. and plaid jackets. All of them looked Come see the pumpkins or run the The contest will be held at 4:15 p.m. normal except for the two girts who run, Saturday, Oct. 26, on the courthouse stood still in the crowd, staring in awe because every year it’s tons of fun. lawn. at the wonders of the festival. As lights This year’s theme is Wild West, Natasha Inocencio On Oct. 25 through 27, Sycamore blinked all around them, they started come on out and have a blast! Eighth grade, St. Mary’s School Kiwanis Club will host a booth serving a whole new memory that would last a roasted nuts to support Kiwanis projlifetime. Western Pumpkin Fest ects in the community. “Hurry, Iris!” Jenny exclaimed. The Kiwanis will host the annual Anaya DeCleene “We don’t want to miss anything!” Pumpkin Prayer Breakfast at 7 a.m. Seventh grade, St. Mary’s School “Alright, alright!” Iris called, out of Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Sycamore Giana Huffstutler breath. United Methodist Church, 160 JohnSixth grade, Sycamore Middle School The day of the Pumpkin Festival son Ave. Tickets cost $7 for adults and Wild West Pumpkin Fest had finally come. This was going to Children from all around brought $5 for students. be the first Pumpkin Fest held in two decorated pumpkins to town. Wild West Following are the winning entries. years. The little town of WestborSome made to look like cowboys “Pumpkin Fest is here!” cheered ough had a western-like feeling to it. and ghouls. Lizzie. Western buildings emerged from the And others like witches and all “Look at that huge cake!” smiled ground and animals roaming around types of fools. Sophie. Reese West the place. Jenny and Iris grew anxious The squashes were horses and “Come one, come all!” shouted the Sixth grade, Sycamore Middle School by the second about going to the pumpkin sheriffs had pistols. mayor while serving cake. festival. They raced each other to the Right next to their badges that As Lizzie and Sophie tasted the Welcome to the Wild West event, eager for what they might see. shined just like crystals. delicious cake, they closed their eyes. Welcome to the Wild West, Jenny dashed into the entrance When the children went home and When they opened their eyes, they this year’s fest will be the best. gate and saw spectacular sights; left the pumpkins alone. looked around, feeling awestruck. Where the cowboy pumpkins come brightly decorated pumpkins, detailed To festivities and partying the There were old wagons parked out to play, scarecrows, flashing lights, and inter- along the dirt path, and everything pumpkins were prone. just like the cowboys that rode all esting looking games. Jenny‘s mouth The Wild West Pumpkin Fest sure See JUNIOR MARSHALS, page 9 day. dropped in astonishment. “It looks was alive.

FIRST PLACE – STORY

SECOND PLACE – POEM

SECOND PLACE – STORY

FIRST PLACE – POEM

THEME WINNER

By KELSEY RETTKE

krettke@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – Hannah Anderson knew she wanted to be a horseback rider before she was in kindergarten, so it’s all the more fitting that her winning theme for this year’s Pumpkin Festival is celebrating the “Wild West,” and horses in all their cowgirl glory. Anderson, 7, a second grader at Southeast Elementary School in Sycamore, sat with her mom, Tara Anderson, 41, a nurse at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin, and big sister Emma Anderson, 11, a Sycamore middle schooler, with black labrador Ozzy, and said she thinks she knows what people will paint on their pumpkins this year. “Cowgirls, cowboys and horses,” Anderson said. “And cactuses maybe, the little round ones.” Tara Anderson said it will be a family affair come Pumpkin Fest weekend, since the children get the day off school Friday – along with husband Matt Anderson, the librarian at Sycamore High School. “We usually are jam-packed from Wednesday trick-or-treating all the way to the parade,” Tara Anderson said. “We have family coming into

town from the suburbs just to watch Hannah this year.” Hannah Anderson said she’s most looking forward to being a part of the Pumpkin Fest Parade, where she’ll get

to ride in a convertible as a guest of honor. She also has the important job of cutting the cake for the festival on Oct. 23, and said she hopes it will be chocolate.

• JUNIOR MARSHALS

FIRST PLACE – THEME

Like pumpkin lights, flags, and pumpkin cliches! We make it to the pumpkin patch And meet all the new pumpkins We laugh and joke and make them happy Until the sun starts climbing So we roll on back into our town Sad that it came to an end We take our places Put a smile on our faces While we wait to do it all again.

From page 8

looked different. “What year is it?“ whispered Lizzie. “1863!” a cowboy replied. “This here is the wildest west. I‘m the mayor of Sycamore, Alonzo Ellwood. You’re not from around here, are you?” “Well, no?” the girls replied. “We came from Pumpkin Fest.” “Pumpkin Fest? What’s that?” he replied. Lizzie and Sophie told the mayor about Pumpkin Fest, and he couldn’t believe how fun it would be to celebrate Halloween in such a great way. “How can I make this Pumpkin Fest happen?“ Ellwood wondered. The girls helped the mayor establish Sycamore‘s very first Pumpkin Fest. “Come one, come all to the first annual Sycamore Pumpkin Fest!” he shouted. Look at the amazing pumpkins!” Right then, Sycamore‘s Pumpkin Fest tradition began!

Kelsey Rettke - krettke@shawmedia.com provided

Emma Anderson (from left), 11, Hannah Anderson, 7, family dog Ozzy, and mom Tara Anderson, 41, pose for a picture on the porch of their family home in Sycamore. Hannah Anderson won this year’s Pumpkin Festival theme contest with “Wild West Pumpkin Fest.”

Kira Collins

Seventh grade, St. Mary’s School

The Pumpkin’s Fest At Night

They walk around this lovely town Right around the courthouse They look at all the works of art Some may call us pumpkins We glow and shimmer and shine all night Waiting to be adored But when the people walk away We roll and sneak and march and play Throughout all of Sycamore But they don‘t see us when they’re sound asleep Which is our favorite time We escape the gates and roll around and have the very best time We explore the town and peek in windows And see all the wonderful clothes We always want to go inside But there’s so many places to go So we all roll down and make our way to the pumpkin patch to play. On the way we see beautiful things

SECOND PLACE – THEME Jacqueline Schwartz

Eighth grade, St. Mary’s School In the year of 2019, everyone would gather together for Pumpkin Fest. Kids, teens, and adults would celebrate together. Kids were carving, eating, and enjoying themselves ... but not little Mikey. He absolutely despised Pumpkin Fest! All of the joy and laughter annoyed him, but all he needed was for something to find that in him. Mikey hardly smiled nor did he get along with others, but always tried to make friends. He was polite, kind, caring, and always seemed to care

She said she already knows what her own design for the “Wild West Pumpkin Fest” theme will be: a horseback rider on a brown quarter horse named Brownie. Like most children her age, Anderson said she enjoys music class at school where she gets to play the xylophone, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch, and playing on the slide and swings at recess. Unlike many children her age, Hannah began riding horses in kindergarten. Every few weeks, she goes for a one-hour lesson at Grandwood Stables in Syacamore and rides a quarter horse named Penny. “She’s a nice kind of horse,” Hannah Anderson said. “We groom the horses, we pick their hooves, we saddle them up, and take them outside and start riding.” A voracious reader her mom said, Hannah enjoys reading Berenstain Bears along with nonfiction. She also plays piano and enjoys sharing her December birthday with 1-year-old Ozzy. Since 1976, Sycamore elementary school students from kindergarten through fifth grade have tried their creative hand at coming up with new theme ideas for the festival, which this year runs Oct. 23 through Oct. 27.

about people, but they never accepted him for who he was. People ignored him because he hardly ever had a smile on his face, but the one thing no one knew about him was the fact that he was a phenomenal artist. The next week, flyers were handed out, and stated “Do you enjoy art? If so, sign up now!” Mikey finally burst with excitement and was definitely going to try out. He had never thought of actually trying this, so this was his chance! The time finally came and he was ready to display his pumpkins. He made five pumpkins in total: A pumpkin on a unicycle, an anime character, two skeletons holding hands, and even painted himself smiling. After weeks of waiting, the judges were placing ribbons on the most creative designs and Mikey won first place! He was jumping with joy, celebrating, but what shocked everyone around him was the fact that he was laughing and smiling, and during Pumpkin Fest too! Kids went up to him and complimented him on his design and art creativity and before he knew it, he had several friends. He promised he would try his best to stay positive and to keep on smiling.

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

Cowgirl excited for ‘Wild West Pumpkin Fest’

CRAFT SHOW 200 vendors at Autumn Craft & Treasures Market

Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

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SHAW MEDIA SYCAMORE – The 47th annual Autumn Craft & Treasures Market, sponsored by the Sycamore Music Boosters and partnering with Heartland Bank, is part of the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival weekend, Oct. 26 and 27. The event will be held at the Sycamore High School Fieldhouse from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. There will be nearly 200 vendors featuring a variety of quality crafts, handmade wood products, specialty items such as wool products, candles, spices, candies, antiques, ceramics and more. Various student music groups will perform on Saturday. Craft & Treasures Market admission fees are $2 for adults and $1 for senior citizens and students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Children younger than 5 get in free. Parking is free. A handicapped lot will be available on the north side of the fieldhouse just off of Johnson Avenue. There will be golf cart shuttles running during operating hours. No animals are allowed except those used for special needs assistance. Visitors numbering in the thousands come every year from across northern Illinois to browse and purchase items for sale. More than 200 adult and student volunteers help exhibitors, supervise traffic, operate the concession stand and work at admissions, guard posts and various other jobs. Raffle tickets for a chance to win $10,000 will be available to purchase at the Autumn Craft & Treasures Market. Raffle tickets cost $20 for

one ticket or $100 for six tickets. This cash raffle is a fundraiser for Make a Difference DKC and Sycamore Music Boosters. For more information on the raffle, visit makeadifferencedkc.com. Vendor applications are being accepted as space is available. For vendor information and application, contact De Austin, vendor chairwoman, via email at sycamorecraftfair@ gmail.com. Sycamore Music Boosters is a volunteer organization composed of families and friends of students enrolled in music education classes in Sycamore schools focused on promoting excellence in music education. Sycamore Music Boosters began years ago with a group of parents interested in supporting school bands. In 1972, the band booster club enlarged its interest to encompass all music programs and the then-named “Antique Craft & Treasures Market” was born. Incorporated in 1978 as a nonprofit organization, the Sycamore Music Boosters continue to support school music programs including funding for equipment purchases, field trips, music camp and college scholarships, high school and middle school musicals, and other music activities. More than 600 students are enrolled in elective music programs in grades four through 12, as well as all elementary music programs. The primary source of funds for Sycamore Music Boosters is the annual Autumn Craft & Treasures Market. For more information about the Sycamore Music Boosters, visit www. sycamoremusicboosters.com or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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Bethany Road where the route turns east. The route turns north at Airport Road where runners cross the winding SYCAMORE – The Sycamore Kishwaukee River. The final mile-andPumpkin Run is the only place you a-half winds through Sycamore’s park can race against Superman, Captain complex and golf course. America and a man in a wedding dress After crossing the finish line, racand have a chance to finish before ers are welcomed by volunteers who them all. have prepared post-race refreshments, The 41st annual Pumpkin Run, to which are located in the National be held Sunday, Oct. 27, is a 10,000-meGuard Armory. Racers age 21 and ter USATF-sanctioned and certified older are treated to Oktoberfest beer. road race presented by Northwestern Northern Rehab Physical Therapy Medicine and organized by the SycaSpecialists will provide post-race more Chamber of Commerce. It draws stretching. more than 1,800 registered racers from Awards will be given to the overall across northern Illinois and beyond. male and female first, second and third Starting gun goes off at 9:05 a.m. sharp. finishers and the top three male and “The runners make our race spefemale finishers in 13 age divisions. cial,” Rose Treml, executive director Photo provided Race registration is available of the Sycamore Chamber, said in a news release. “Because it is so close to The 41st annual Pumpkin Run 10K Road Race will be held Sunday, Oct. 27, starting at 9:05 online at pumpkinrunsycamore.com. Also available on the race website is Halloween we have many runners that a.m. at the park just east of the National Guard Armory on Route 64. a detailed route map, photos of past come dressed in costume.” and heads west on Route 64 past the and Breast Cancer Awareness. races, and 2018 race results. There also are local businesses historic DeKalb County Courthouse. Runners of all ages and abilities Volunteers are still needed for the that encourage their employees to Runners will continue through the join together at the National Guard event. For information, contact Erin run together and groups that run for downtown Sycamore business district at office@sycamorechamber.com or Armory on Route 64. The route starts their special cause, such as Feed My Starving Children Mobile Food Pack and then south on Somonauk Street to 815-895-3456. at the corner of Kishwaukee Drive

SHAW MEDIA

October 25-27 on the purchase of an unlimited ride armband Valid Friday only from 3pm–7pm Valid Friday, Oct. 25th only. Everyone must have a coupon to receive $5 off (photocopies are allowed) WCASYCAMORE2019 17

Friday......................3pm - 10pm Saturday..............noon - 10pm Sunday...................noon - 5pm

Friday...............................3pm - 7pm Saturday.........................noon - 4pm Sunday............................noon - 4pm

11 SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

PUMPKIN RUN Chamber’s 41st annual 10K race steps off Sunday

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13 SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com â&#x20AC;¢ October 2019

HISTORIC HOMES TOUR

Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

Six homes highlight heart of Sycamore SHAW MEDIA Sycamore is a town with a big heart. Sycamore people pull together in adversity and highly value community service. This year’s Pumpkin Fest Historic Homes Tour, sponsored by the DeKalb County History Center, will highlight homes of those who have served Sycamore selflessly and who helped build the community. The tour, to be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, will include tours of six homes plus the new History Center. As a bonus, everyone is invited to stop by Blumen Gardens to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the business and the 160th anniversary of the railroad coming to Sycamore with a presentation by Clint Cargile, local writer and historian. Tickets for the event will be available at the History Center, the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce and Sweet Earth Gifts or can be purchased the day of the walk at any of the houses. First on this year’s tour is the striking home at 101 Mason Court. It was built in 1924 for Dr. C. Stuart Cleary, an early doctor who died tragically at the age of 41. It is most widely known, however, for the next owner, Dr. Harold Trapp, a much-beloved doctor who served Sycamore and beyond and was even named Sycamore’s outstanding citizen in 1977. The home is a cozy, dark brick Dutch Colonial, which current owners Kris and Sharon Hajek have updated while maintaining its beauty. Next is the much-anticipated restored home at 319 Somonauk St. Built in 1866 for Dr. Orlando Bryan, this home was cut into apartments and became run down over the years. It is now beautifully renovated as a single-family home for owners Brad Ziegler and Kristina Karkavatos. Dr. Bryan was commissioned as a surgeon for the Union Army in the Civil War by President Abraham Lincoln himself. He was Sycamore’s first doctor and the great-grandfather of Dr. John Ovitz, who also served Sycamore for many years. The next stop is the Edward Safford/Wildenradt family home at 328 Somonauk St., built in 1876. One of the first owners, Edward Safford was captain of the 14th Colored Infantry in the Civil War. The Wildenradt family who later owned the house are well known for their contributions to the Sycamore community. This home features

Photos provided

319 Somonauk St.

420 Somonauk St.

464 Somonauk St.

813 Somonauk St.

a front parlor fireplace, an updated kitchen, and many built-ins. Current owners are Dennis and Diane Liesz. Just down the street stands the Queen Anne-style mansion at 420 Somonauk St., a perennial favorite of the tour. This home was designed by architect George O. Garnsey around 1880 and is fondly remembered as the Edwards Photography studio with the larger-than-life Indian statue on

the front lawn. Built by former Mayor David Syme, a major benefactor of the Sycamore Public Library who also served on the Sycamore school board for many years, this home has seen many layers of restoration. Current owners, Mike and Cecilia Grimson, have retained the character of the house in their renovations and have enhanced it with the addition of their collection of art from around the

world. They also provide a great home for many rescued parrots. Next is 464 Somonauk St. This home dates from about 1880 and was first built for Daniel Wild, son of early businessman George Wild. Daniel Wild was vice president of the Pierce Trust and Savings Bank and served in Europe during World War I. This

See HOMES TOUR, page 15

• HOMES TOUR From page 14

Sycamore Music Boosters

Autumn Craft & Treasures Market Hosted by: Partnering with Heartland Bank

Saturday, October 26 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday, October 27 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Over 200 Booths Sycamore High School Field House 427 Spartan Trail www.sycamoremusicboosters.com 101 Mason Court

Adults $2.00 Senior Citizens $1.00 Kindergarten - 12th Grade $1.00 Children under 5: Free Sandwiches and pies and other food items available at concessions Free Parking Golf Cart Shuttle * Strollers allowed! No animals please p (except ( p service animals)

328 Somonauk St.

15 SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com • October 2019

large home showcases beautiful inlaid floors and crown molding throughout and an original staircase. Current owners Kevin and Jean Flaherty continue to restore this home, which was once cut into apartments, to its previous grandeur. The striking Italianate home at 813 Somonauk St. was built in 1880 for Sycamore’s first dentist, Dr. Olin Smith, who served the community for more than 60 years. The Smith family was involved in many Sycamore organizations and is considered a real founding family. The home had fallen into disrepair until Margaret Baack restored it in the 1980s. This home has many original features in the front – fireplace, stairway complete

with coffin corner, and inlaid floors – and boasts a fabulous kitchen in the back, which was built on during the restoration. Attendees also can visit the DeKalb County History Center at 1730 N. Main St. and tour the current exhibit, “Crossroads, Change in Rural America,” and see the Joiner History Room’s new home. Tickets for the event will be available at the History Center, the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce and Sweet Earth Gifts or can be purchased the day of the walk at any of the houses. Tickets cost $25 each or $40 a pair. Also, the museum is still in need of volunteers to staff the houses. For more information on how to earn a free ticket by giving a little time to help showcase these homes, call 815895-5762, visit dekalbcountyhistory. org or like the center on Facebook.

Daily Chronicle/Daily-Chronicle.com â&#x20AC;¢ October 2019

SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

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