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DeKalb awards grants to multiple downtown businesses

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – Three downtown area businesses are among the latest to benefit from the city of DeKalb’s Architectural Improvement Program.

The City Council last week authorized the award of economic incentives to help pay for improvements to 235 E. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb, the former home of Blu Door Decor, which closed in July 2023.

The building’s owners, Elisa and Martin Boughner and their son Brennan, are looking to relocate their art studio from Glenview to DeKalb and have approached the city about subsidizing certain necessary interior and exterior repairs in the amount of $25,000.

Project leaders have identified a need for masonry repair to the building’s chimney and north wall; exterior lighting and signage; as well as heating, ventilation and air conditioning work. The owners also said there’s a need for roof replacement and substantial tuckpointing on the brick west wall, which is city-owned, city documents show.

“They have some major remodeling ahead,” City Manager Bill Nicklas said.

Nicklas said the owners of the new art studio qualify to participate in the city’s 50/50 cost-sharing program.

Second Ward Alderwoman Barb Larson questioned whether the city would be setting a precedent by extending aid to cityowned property.

“We certainly did in the downtown with the reconfiguration of the Lincoln Highway corridor,” Nicklas said in response. “That was $1.8 million worth. So it makes perfect sense to use it. That’s what this was dedicated for.”

In related action, the City Council authorized an agreement with Weaver Construction in the amount of $39,700 to pay for masonry repair of the building’s west wall. The project will be paid for using monies in the city’s tax increment financing fund, city documents show.

Also at the meeting, DeKalb city leaders unanimously decided to grant economic incentives to the owner of the former Whizzer Fun Inc. building, 209 Grove St., DeKalb.

Owner Mike Warfel said he wants to put to use the building for office or retail space.

Nicklas said he has seen the owner’s estimates for what he intends to do with the building.

“We feel it meets our guidelines and rec-

ommend this for approval,” Nicklas said.

The City Council also gave its stamp of approval for $2,982 in emergency assistance extended to the owner of Cracker Jax, 118 N. Third St., DeKalb.

The shop closed for about a week to undergo emergency plumbing repairs, city documents show.

In the past four years, the city has acted on requests for emergency repairs at the building that now houses Burger Naan, the Stage Coach Players theater, KJ’s Tap, the Egyptian Theatre and Byers Brewing Co., which also has closed.

To date, the city of DeKalb has awarded a little more than $73,000 out of $100,000 budgeted in TIF funds for Architectural Improvement Program grants so far in 2024, city documents show.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Kelsey Rettke file photo Blu Door Decor, 235 E. Lincoln Highway in downtown DeKalb, seen here July 6, 2023.

New Sycamore fire station could cost more than planned

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – Architects hired by Sycamore to design a new fire station told the City Council recently the project could cost at least $1 million more than initially estimated.

Representatives from Oak Brookbased FGM Architects said their first option for a new facility could cost $10.4 million to $11 million. Their initial project estimate ranged between $9.2 million and $10.3 million.

The firm was awarded an $86,920 contract by Sycamore in August to create the preliminary design and concept plan for a new fire station.

FGM Architect Mike Elliott said he and Jason Estes, a vice president and principal of FGM Architects, came to the council meeting to speak with city leaders about estimated project costs.

“This is all in project budget. ... This includes the cost of furniture, this includes any of the fees as far as the engineer and the architecture, any legal fees, all the utility hook-up fees, any construction costs that we describe as a soft cost,” Elliott said. “Sometimes people just look at the construction costs, but there’s other fees and costs that are associated.”

In May, Kluber Architects told city officials that it estimated it would cost between $11.4 million to $13.6 million to build a new fire station elsewhere, and $12.7 million to $15 million to renovate the current Fire Station No. 1 at 535 DeKalb Ave. in Sycamore.

In January, Ideal Industries Inc. donated 6 acres of land for a new fire station in the Prairie Business Park, removing the need for the city to spend money on land acquisition.

At the time, Ideal Industries Foundation Director Nicole Juday said the

company hopes to create a 10-foot-wide walking and bike path around a retention pond in the area.

Sycamore Fire Chief Bart Gilmore said the firefighters working and living in the 67-year-old DeKalb Avenue building have no air conditioning during the summer and face the prospect of a boiler as old as the building potentially breaking during the winter.

The concept design offered up by FGM Architects included a training tower, fitness space, a community

training room, lockers, an individual bedroom, a library, office space and an apparatus bay that can fit modern fire engines. The city has to use modified fire engines at the current Fire Station No. 1 because of a low ceiling.

City Manager Michael Hall told City Council members that the project has support out of Sycamore since the new space could work as a regional emergency operations center.

“We’ve got support from the [DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and Northern Illinois University] because we don’t have a regional EOC, and they’re supporting us to create that. So the expanded EOC would be through federal grants,” Hall said. “So we’ve got opportunities we’re working right now to try and get [the federal Emergency Management Agency], [the U.S. Department of Homeland Security], those types of things. That’s the only way that would come into play is to expand it through grants.”

The operations center is estimated to cost $800,000, officials said, and that’s not the only addition officials are considering. Hall said a historical museum could be added to the building as well.

“The museum piece would also be through grants, unless there was interest from City Council,” Hall said.

Camden Lazenby file

Sycamore Fire Chief Bart Gilmore said the firefighters working and living in the 67-year-old DeKalb Avenue building have no air conditioning during the summer and face the prospect of a boiler as old as the building potentially breaking during the winter.

DeKalb D-428 breaks ground on elementary school

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – DeKalb School District 428 is doing its part to ensure that students have access to a 21st century school in their neighborhood to call home.

A groundbreaking ceremony and name unveiling was held April 11 for the new Dr. Leroy A. Mitchell Elementary School.

During the event, renderings were posted in the tent for visitors to get a glimpse of what the building, 1240 Normal Road, will look like once complete. The new elementary school, which is expected to cost about $33 million, has an opening date tentatively scheduled for 2025, officials said.

Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez touted the lengths the district has come with this project. The DeKalb school board decided in 2022 to make a new school a priority of the district to reduce classroom sizes, officials said.

“It will represent a place of progress, pride and ownership,” Garcia-Sanchez said. “We look forward to reducing space constrains at all of our schools. Being able to more effectively allocate resources districtwide and

Members of the Mitchell family, including patriarch Leroy

having more flexibility to accommodate continued growth in specialized programs. How we must educate looks very different than it did five or 10 years ago. Since the [COVID-19] pandemic, we have changed how we think

Booked and Blessed... or BUST!

Directed by Frankie DiCiaccio Black Box Theatre

April 5-7, 11-13

Spring Dance Concert

Directed by Marc Macaranas and Sarita Smith Childs

April 25-28

O’Connell Theatre

I’m hoping some child will know that because there was an adopted kid, a foster kid who made it, that school is named after, that they could make it, too.”

Leroy A. Mitchell, of DeKalb, on the Dr. Leroy A. Mitchell Elementary School name

Ramirez said she couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this milestone.

Busch

and how we prepare to support our students. The way that we delivered instruction before is no longer the way that we can deliver it now. We have to think forward.”

School board president Deyci

“As we look ahead to the future of this school, I am filled with optimism and confidence,” Ramirez said. “I have no doubt that this new elementary school will become a beacon of excellence, a hub of learning and discovery and a source of pride for our community.”

The 70,000-square-foot school will serve 450 to 500 kindergarten through fifth grade students. The school will feature music and art classrooms, a

See ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, page 5

Avalon String Quartet

April 13 World Music Festival, 3 p.m.

April 14 NIU Percussion Ensemble, 3 p.m.

April 16 Reggie Thomas Faculty Recital, 7 p.m.

April 17 NIU Wind Symphony, 7 p.m.

April 18 NIU Jazz Orchestra, 7 p.m.

April 19 NIU Chamber Choir, 7 p.m.

April 21 NIU Steelband, 3 p.m.

April 22 String Chamber Music, 7 p.m.

April 23 NIU Jazz Ensemble, 7 p.m.

April 24 Brass Chamber Recital, 7 p.m.

April 25 NIU Wind Ensemble, 7 p.m.

April 26 Avalon String Quartet, 7 p.m.

NIU Art Museum

Making Our History

Artists Render Lincoln’s Legacies

March 26 - May 11

Altgeld Hall - First Floor

NIU School of Art and Design

Blick Art Materials Ars Nova Exhibition

April 1 - 18

Jack Olson Gallery

Jack Arends Hall

Mark

Mitchell (third from right), are joined by DeKalb School District 428 Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez (middle) on April 11 to break ground for the new Dr. Leroy A. Mitchell Elementary School. The school will be located at 1240 Normal Road in DeKalb.

• ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Continued from page 4

STEAM classroom for science, technology, engineering and art education, spaces designed to accommodate services for special needs students, outdoor learning and innovation pods and staff spaces to hold restorative conversations for student discipline.

Amonaquenette Parker, the district’s director of diversity and inclusion, said it’s clear that a new elementary school is necessary in the north corridor, and the district stands ready to meet the need, despite any questions the district may receive.

“It’s because it’s where our children are,” Parker said.

A lifelong learner and pastor emeritus at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, Leroy Mitchell said he’s grateful for the recognition that the district bestowed on him by naming the building after him.

Mitchell has strong ties to the DeKalb community. He was a foster parent to more than 50 children after growing up in the foster care system himself. Mitchell has four kids of his own.

“I’m hoping some child will know that because there was an adopted kid, a foster kid who made it, that school is named after, that they could make it, too,” Mitchell said.

The district incorporated extensive public feedback from community con-

versations into the naming selection process, officials said.

Garcia-Sanchez said she believes the

district made the right choice naming the building after Mitchell.

“I challenge every child and every

adult that enters this building to live up to the name of the namesake of this building,” she said.

Mark Busch

Leroy Mitchell smiles as he speaks April 11 about how humbled and honored he is that the newest DeKalb school will bear his name during the groundbreaking ceremony for Dr. Leroy A. Mitchell Elementary School. The school will be located at 1240 Normal Road in DeKalb.

A CLOSER LOOK

‘Lightning just doesn’t strike’

Captain of country’s first all-Black high school rowing team says sport gave him discipline he needed

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – An award-winning author from the west side of Chicago told dozens on Northern Illinois University’s campus recently how competitive rowing gave him the fortitude he needed to rise above his childhood circumstances.

Arshay Cooper visited NIU April 11 to speak in the Carl Sandburg Auditorium in the Holmes Student Center for Project FLEX, a university program that helps incarcerated youth in northern Illinois find better paths through sports. Cooper grew up in Chicago in the 1990s, went to what he remembers as an underfunded school, and said he could often hear gunshots from his childhood bedroom at night.

“I skipped over pools of blood walking out of my place, I’ve been chased –ran for my life. We have seen what some soldiers have seen in war, but before we was 15 years old. So it was very hard for me to go to school and think about math and science when I was living that way,” Cooper said. “And I didn’t know what to do about it, I felt like God existed everywhere but that neighborhood.”

Project FLEX – which stands for fitness, leadership, experience – brought about half a dozen youth from the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice Illinois Youth Center in Warrenville to hear Cooper’s presentation.

Jenn Jacobs, associate professor of sport and exercise psychology and co-founder of Project FLEX, said the program aims to help incarcerated youth reimagine their possible futures through athletic and educational experiences.

“[Project FLEX tries to] help those who are incarcerated just have a little bit more positive outcomes while they’re there, but then to set them up for success,” Jacobs said. “Once they’re leaving they’re able to draw from lessons, life lesson, relationship lessons from what they’ve learned and go succeed in home life, job life, beyond incarceration.”

According to the Project FLEX website, 93% of incarcerated youth in Illinois return to an internment facility within five years of the end of their original sentence.

Hannah DiSilverio, a graduate assistant for Project FLEX studying in NIU’s kinesiology and physical education department, said the program aims to reduce that figure by incorporating sports and life skills into the daily lives of incarcerated youth.

“We’re really using the power of sport to kind of reimagine the life of an incarcerated youth,” DiSilverio said.

While many students use sports as a catharsis for the trials and tribulations of everyday life, Cooper said for him and many of his classmates 30 years ago, contact sports would frequently trigger trauma responses because of the violent setting they were growing up in.

Cooper later discovered a non-contact sport, which he said he found as

mediative as it was communicatively demanding, that taught him the wherewithal he needed to achieve his childhood dreams.

In 1997, Cooper was asked to join a high school rowing team but because none of the sport’s Olympic athletes looked like him, or reflected the world he was used to, he initially declined the offer, he said.

The next day he had a change of heart, however.

“Everyone was signing up for this sport, and this was the sport that was going to give us the opportunity to be the first all-Black high school rowing team in the county. Like, to actually make history, and opportunities are for those who need it and those who make themselves available for it, and I

didn’t know if I was ready for that,” Cooper said.

Free Chicago pizza ended up being enough of a reward to spur his involvement, and make history.

Cooper was a part of, and eventually was made captain of the first allBlack rowing team in the county, located at Manley High School in Chicago.

Now, Cooper is a two-time Golden Oar recipient and an award-winning author. His self-published memoir “Suga Water” became the inspiration for “A Most Beautiful Thing,” a 2020 documentary chronicling the history-making rowing team, directed by filmmaker Mary Mazzio and narrated

See COOPER, page 7

Camden Lazenby

Arshay Cooper went on to become a chef for World Wrestling Entertainment, Warner Brothers film sets and professional athletes.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

NIU’s WNIJ Radio to hold Familia Fest July 13

DeKALB – Northern Illinois University’s WNIJ 89.5 FM, DeKalb County United and the DeKalb Day of the Dead Celebration will host a Familia Fest to celebrate soccer, family and community this summer.

Familia Fest will be July 13 at the NIU “North 40” area, the corner of Lucinda and Kishwaukee Drive.

The event will feature family-friendly activities, food, a youth soccer skills challenge, entertainment and an ages 14 and older adult soccer tournament.

The adults soccer tournament will be six-on-six. Teams must have a maximum of 10 players with substitutes. Players must be at least 14 years old. The players will receive a free ticket the DeKalb County United versus Bavarian United game at 7 p.m. July 13 at the NIU Soccer

• COOPER

Continued from page 6

by actor and rapper Common. The documentary was executive produced by Grant Hill and Dwyane Wade. Com-

Complex. The winner will be recognized at the game’s halftime.

Registration costs $50 per team. Team captains must register by June 1.

The youth skills challenge features passing, dribbling and juggling competitions. The challenge is free and open to children ages 5 to 12. Free T-shirts will be provided. Registration and T-shirt sizes are due June 1.

Registration is encouraged for the tournament and the skills challenge. Sponsorships will be available for local businesses and organizations. Bilingual translators and volunteers also can sign up.

To register, visit northernpublicradio. org/familiafest.

WNIJ 89.5 FM is one of two noncommercial public broadcasting stations by Northern Public Radio, the broadcast

mon and Wade also are Chicago natives.

Cooper said competitive rowing taught him how to not step over the messes left by others, both abstract and real, and to take time to make the world a better place than he found it. It

arm of NIU, and provides local, national, international and independent news.

Northern Rehab to hold airway strategies presentation

April 18 in Sycamore

SYCAMORE – Northern Rehab Physical Therapy Specialists and the Kishwaukee Family YMCA will host a presentation titled “Out of Breath: Strategies to Improve Airway Function” as part of its Lunch and Learn Educational Series.

The event will be held at 11 a.m. April 18 at the Kishwaukee Family YMCA, 2500 Bethany Road, Sycamore.

The free presentation will be led by physical therapist Todd Vanatta. Attendees can learn about easy breathing exercises, the physical therapist’s role in improving airway health, and efficient breathing patterns for general

also allowed him to fulfill his childhood dream by becoming a personal chef for World Wrestling Entertainment, Warner Brothers film sets and professional athletes.

health, strength, digestive function and trunk stability.

Refreshments will be provided by Hy-Vee. Because of limited space, registration is required. To register, call 815-756-9577 or visit kishymca.org.

Northern Rehab Physical Therapy Specialists is a physical therapist-owned and operated physical therapy practice providing clients with customized care for more than 45 years.

The Kishwaukee Family YMCA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enrich the spirit, mind and body of all those in the community, especially families and children, regardless of ability to pay.

For information, call 815-756-9577 or 815-756-8524 or visit kishymca.org or northernrehabpt.com/events.

– Shaw Local News Network

“Sometimes as young people we want lightning to strike, but here’s the thing, lightning just doesn’t strike,” Cooper said. “You have to have something in you to attract the lightning, and for me it was commitment, it was self control, it was discipline, it was connection, it was love, it was forgiveness.”

City Council lowers ’23 tax levy for residents

Amended tax levy due to changes in property value assessments from County Clerk’s Office, city says

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – The DeKalb City Council recently approved a plan to lower its levy collection for 2023 property tax bills, an effort that city leaders said is meant to ease taxpayer burden after what officials said were a record number of property tax appeals this spring.

The council on April 1 approved an ordinance to amend its 2023 property tax levy that initially was adopted in November. If not amended, the levy would have seen the city collect about $8.1 million in property tax revenue.

Mayor Cohen Barnes said the city felt it was important to amend its levy.

“We’ve worked on keeping our property taxes lowered and lowered and lowered every year,” Barnes said. “I really hope all the other governing taxing bodies throughout the city of DeKalb are doing the exact same thing, otherwise all the residents are going to see an increase in dollars in their property tax bill if the other taxing bodies don’t do exactly what we’re doing tonight.”

As amended this week, the city’s property tax levy now is estimated to collect about $7.7 million, documents show, after the countywide pool of assessed property value by the County Clerk and Recorder’s Office was about $45.6 million less than expected.

Under the new 2023 property tax levy, DeKalb residents with homes valued at about $119,185 should expect to pay about $966 on the city portion of their property tax bills, according to city calculations.

The amended levy is not expected to

change the city’s ability to fund fire and police pensions, city documents show.

City Manager Bill Nicklas previously has said all the money collected through the city’s levy goes to pay off pension obligations.

Council action does not alter the DeKalb Public Library’s portion of the levy, however.

Sixth Ward Alderman Mike Verbic asked whether the city can set the library’s tax rate.

”We can’t set their levy,” Nicklas said in reply. “We don’t have, as we did in the fall ... weeks to engage in conversation and back-and-forth and attend meetings and work out a compromise. We have three days. It’s not our choice. To not choose is to choose.

“[If] other taxing bodies are not taking the time and putting in the effort as you are to make the appropriate change, then that’s something that they’re going to have to answer for.”

Barnes said he believes the council made the right decision to call a special meeting.

“We worked over 2023 to get to the point of trying to get as many taxing bodies as possible to hold the taxpayer harmless,” Barnes said. “But you’re right. There’s only so much that we can do. I’m glad that we’re doing our part here.”

Nicklas urged the council to act on the matter with urgency.

“I think it’s imperative that we pass this, or else we’ll be explaining to a lot of taxpayers why we couldn’t take action,” Nicklas said.

First Ward Alderwoman Carolyn Zasada expressed appreciation to city staff for alerting the council to the issue and how to address it.

“I’m glad that we’re doing this,” Zasada said. “Thank you for bringing this to our attention. Thank you for making sure that we continue to work toward holding the taxpayers harmless.”

LOOKING BACK

1924 – 100 YEARS AGO

Report comes to the police station today of two men who are evidently of the belief they have found an easy way to acquire cash, other than work and are posing as state automobile officials. Two machines were stopped last night just east of Cortland corners and detained for some time, the fellows on the highway claiming the other autos were in violation of a state law. In order to square themselves the so-called violators would have to furnish a cash bond for their appearance in DeKalb or Sycamore, whichever city the fellows desired.

Work in the store building adjoining the First National Bank building on the Lincoln Highway is moving along rapidly at this time, and the alterations should be completed within a short time. It is reported a firm to be known as Mullis Brothers, will occupy the place. The interior has been fitted with considerable shelving, new lighting fixtures have been installed and other improvements have been made. It is not known what class of merchandise the store will sell, nor when the opening will be announced.

Members of a committee of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce have been busy this week soliciting the merchants along the street, seeking funds which will help to put the DeKalb band on its feet for the summer months. The band is desirous of furnishing concerts again this summer but it is stated that before this will be possible, there will have to be some finances in the treasury. The merchants report the soliciting was a very good success, and it is an assured fact, according to reports, that DeKalb will have band concerts this summer.

Jacob Klein, one of the pioneer merchants of Cortland, who has built up an extensive farm implement business there, has purchased the building formerly used by the Chicago, Aurora & DeKalb electric line for a substation. Mr. Klein plans to make some alternations about the building and will make it a part of his property holdings there. The new building will probably be used mostly for storage and display of farm implements.

Following the granting of the application by the Illinois Commerce Commission of the DeKalb-Sycamore & Interurban Traction Company for an order permitting the company to cease operating its street car service in the

cities of DeKalb and Sycamore, and between those cities, it is announced the last trip of the electric car will be made tonight at 11 o’clock. The busses of the Northern Illinois Service Company will start operation tomorrow morning, the same schedule as that of the street car.

1949– 75 YEARS AGO

Motorists traveling in this area yesterday found drifts blocking a number of the highways. It was necessary to bring out snow plows again to open some of the roads. Many cars went into the ditch and in several spots in the area cars were lined up for considerable distances waiting to get around drifts where cars had stalled.

Messages sent out over the DeKalb County sheriff’s office radio are now being received by the DeKalb police, the hookup with the sheriff’s office having been completed. Although the DeKalb police radio has been in operation for some time, the hookup with the sheriff’s office was only completed yesterday. Through the use of the police radio, it is now possible for all police authorities, state, county, and city, to keep in close contact with each other.

A group of airport operators met for a luncheon meeting at Strains Restaurant in Sycamore yesterday for the purpose of organizing airport operators in this and surrounding counties to promote flying activities, good will among airports and the discussion of common problems.

Darrel Carls of Carls Aviation Sales and germinator of the idea to form an

an outrageous fortune and, by remodeling, end them. To build, to renovate, perchance to rent, aye, there’s the rub faced by the county’s Capital Requirements Committee. The Capital Requirements Committee is a special committee of the seven members of the Rules Committee of the DeKalb County Board and one member from the Planning and Zoning Committee. The special committee met for the first time last night to decide how to go about making longterm decisions on what kind of building the county needs and how to go about providing them.

Circuit Judge Rex F. Mellinger Monday ordered the city of DeKalb to pay $10,633 to the First National Bank as trustee and $9,366 to the bank as the mortgage of a lot at 525 Grove St. The city has condemned the property for urban renewal.

organization for this particular flying group, believes that much could be gained by becoming better acquainted with the neighboring airport operators, establishing friendly relations and affording an opportunity to discuss the problems that confront the small operator.

General Electric Company has recently purchased a building from the War Assets Administration for the sum of $475,000.

The plant has been previously leased by the concern for a long period. The plant when in full operation will employ 800 people making fractional horsepower motors. At the present time, however, one-half of the operational plant is down because of a shortage in orders.

Wednesday afternoon, shortly before press time, an excited voice over the phone informed The Chronicle that some mysterious objects were visible in the sky south of this city. A couple of reporters made a hurried trip to the area indicated but although they gawped into the clear sky for some minutes, they failed to see anything and returned to the office. Later it was learned that the same objects had been seen south of Elburn, in the Aurora area and along the shores of Lake Michigan. They were soon identified by Prof. Clarence Smith of Aurora College as nothing more menacing than balloons sent up by the Unites States Weather Bureau in its research work.

1974 – 50 YEARS AGO

To build or not to build, that is the question. Whether ’tis nobler in the main to suffer things as they are or to run up

1999 – 25 YEARS AGO

A Northern Illinois University program designed to cut down on drunk driving has been expanded to assist more students. NIU’s Nite Ride program was boosted this year with the addition of a 12-passenger, handicapped-assessable van.

Officials with Kishwaukee Community Hospital and the Hauser-Ross Eye Institute have agreed to a deal that will allow the hospital to acquire the innovative Sycamore eye surgery center.

Memorial Day weekend is traditionally the unofficial start of summer. The temperature is usually nice, leaves are on the trees and the odor of barbecue grills fill the air. But if there are a few less people cooking out in their backyards this Memorial Day, they can probably be found next to the Northern Illinois Veterans Memorial in Kirkland. Those chefs of the outdoors will be competing in the newest Kansas City Barbecue Sanctioned cookoff, the Veterans Bar-B-Que Klassic.

The DeKalb Planning Commission has unanimously approved a special use permit for a 62-room upscale motel. If the city council also approves the permit at its April 26 meeting, the developer, the Richardson Group, hopes to begin construction next month. The motel will be built at 1314 W. Lincon Highway, in the lot next to the Crystal Pistol restaurant. It will be called the Baymont Inn and Suites.

– Compiled by Sue Breese

Photo provided by DeKalb County History Center

The first offices and bath house at Hopkins Park neared completion in early July 1935. The start of the first pool is visible in the foreground.

TIPS TO PREVENT PICKLEBALL INJURIES

Pickleball has inspired millions of devotees. According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, roughly 36.5 million individuals played pickleball in 2022, and 45 percent of players who participated in a YouGov study conducted between August 2021 and August 2022 indicated they planned to play more pickleball in the coming six months than they had in the previous six months.

Pickleball is thriving, and that’s great news for those who love the game. Unfortunately, pickleball also has proven beneficial to orthopedic practices. A 2023 analysis from UBS estimated pickleball injuries could cost Americans nearly $400 million in 2023. Seniors are especially vulnerable to pickleball injuries, as a 2021 study published in the journal Injury Epidemiology found that 86 percent of emergency room visits related to pickleball injuries affected individuals 60 and older.

Injuries are a part of any sport, and pickleball is no different. Though there’s no foolproof method to guarantee pickleball players don’t get hurt playing the game they love, the following are some tips that can reduce injury risk.

• Gear up. Pickleball is a competitive sport, but there’s a tendency among some players, particularly novices, to take a casual approach to the game. Veteran players may know better, but anyone new to the game should be sure to wear the appropriate gear when playing. Athletic shoes with ample traction can reduce the likelihood that players will slip or fall. The right racket also can reduce risk for elbow injuries. The sporting goods experts at Dick’s Sporting Goods note that paddles should feature a light to medium weight, comfortable grip and a large sweet spot. The right paddle will be different for everyone, so novices are urged to speak to veteran players for advice on which paddle might be best for them.

• Embrace physical activity. Pickleball can be a great workout, and players can reduce their injury risk by embracing physical activity even when they are not playing. Leg exercises can help build lower body strength, but strength exercises that focus on the upper body also can reduce injury risk.

• Loosen up before playing. Taking the court right after getting out of the car is a recipe for injury. Arrive five to 10 minutes before a game and use that time to loosen up. A short walk and some subsequent stretches can help players make sure their bodies are not too tight to play. Some brief warm-up exercises and stretching can reduce muscle tension and make the body less vulnerable to injury.

• Hydrate before, during and after a game. The experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine note that water cushions the joints, which helps athletes maintain their flexibility. Flexibility can reduce injury risk, particularly in a sport like pickleball. The 2021 study published in Injury Epidemiology noted that 60 percent of pickleball injuries are sprains, strains or fractures. Remaining flexible can reduce athletes’ risk for sprains and strains. Johns Hopkins recommends adults consume between six and 12 ounces of water for every 20 minutes of sports play and to drink between 16 and 24 ounces afterward.

Pickleball is wildly popular, even though pickleball injuries are common. Players can embrace various strategies to reduce their injury risk.

Household head/co-head must be 62+ or disabled for apartment eligibility. Section 8 subsidy available to reduce rent to 30% of adjusted income. Income limits apply. *Restrictions apply.

Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb

310 North Sixth Street

• DeKalb, Illinois 60115

Phone 815.758.2692

• Fax 815.758.4190

The Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb is accepting pre-applications for the Low Income Public Housing Program from applicants who are income eligible and have two (2) or more local preferences. Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/ or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households who are income eligible and whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62 or older) and/or households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member has a verifiable Disability.

• Accommodations for independent living seniors, couples or person with disabilities

•Security Features

•Laundry Facilities

•Friendly On-site Management

•Clean & Safe Atmosphere

•24 Hour Maintenance Service

For more information, please call 815-758-2692, or applications are available online at www.dekcohousing.com

Foundation accepting scholarship applications

contact@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County Community Foundation is accepting online applications for the following scholarships: Cindy Graves Nursing Scholarship, Ed and Kim Kapper Physical Therapy Scholarship, Jeffrey A. Trail Memorial Scholarship, Nesbitt Medical Student Scholarship, Oneita J. Waltenberger Scholarship, Renaissance Scholarship and the Spinoso Masters Scholarship.

The deadline to apply for the scholarships is June 1, according to a news release.

Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to review the scholarship guidelines and criteria before applying online at dekalbccf.org/additional-scholarships.

• The Cindy Graves Nursing Scholarship provides support for DeKalb County residents currently working as nursing professionals and continuing their education in nursing.

• The Ed and Kim Kapper Physical Therapy Scholarship provides support for a DeKalb County high school graduate who is attending an accredited physical therapy program at an accredited college or university.

• The Jeffrey A. Trail Memorial Scholarship provides support to recent high school graduates who are formally

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Society garage sale begins

April 25 in Genoa

GENOA – The Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Society will host its annual garage sale later this month.

The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 25 and 26 and 9 a.m. to noon April 27 at the Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Society Museum, 622 Park Ave. in Genoa.

Sale items include jewelry, electronics, lawn and garden, small appliances, books, linens, toys and games, decor, kitchen and household, and collectibles.

Shoppers can visit the museum before and after the sale.

The organization is taking donations for the sale. Items can be dropped off from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays at the museum.

No clothing, shoes, big furniture, purses

admitted and committed to attending the U.S. Naval Academy.

• The Nesbitt Medical Student Scholarship provides support to medical students who need financial assistance to continue their medical education. Preference is given to women, individuals who are current or previous residents of DeKalb County and students already enrolled in an accredited medical college in Illinois.

• The Oneita J. Waltenberger Scholarship provides support to current or former residents of DeKalb County who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate education in health care.

• The Renaissance Scholarship provides support for students who have been a part of the workforce after high school and are seeking an undergraduate degree. Applicants must be a DeKalb County resident or living within the service boundary of Kishwaukee College in Malta.

• The Spinoso Masters Scholarship provides up to $10,000 in scholarship support for students pursuing post-undergraduate studies. Eligible applicants must have graduated from a DeKalb County high school.

For information, contact DeKalb County Community Foundation scholarship staff at 815-748-5383 or scholarships@dekalbccf.org.

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or exercise equipment will be accepted. For information, call 815-784-5559.

DeKalb library to host Medicare workshops

April 18 and 20

DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host two workshops for patrons to learn about Medicare insurance options.

The workshops will be held at 11 a.m. April 18 and 20 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.

The workshops are free and intended for adults and seniors.

Licensed sales representative Carol Cherry will discuss how to make the right choice, Medicare’s different parts, and how to find the right plan.

No registration is required to attend. For information, email samanthah@ dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1701.

– Shaw Local News Network

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GoFundMe raises funds for fallen deputy Christina Musil’s children

A public fundraising campaign through the crowdsourcing platform

GoFundMe has raised more than $291,900 as of 4:50 p.m. April 10 from more than 1,400 donations to support the children of late DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil.

Musil, 35, the mother of children ages 5, 11 and 12, was killed in a car crash while on duty March 28 in Waterman.

She died from her injuries in the early morning hours of March 29, authorities have said.

Organizers have said that donations will offer financial support to Musil’s children to help provide for their immediate needs and also their future education.

The fundraiser also can be reached at gofundme.com/f/support-for-the-children-of-deputy-christina-musil.

A 44-year-old DeKalb man, Nathan P. Sweeney, has been charged with reckless homicide and driving under the influence of drugs while driving a truck and allegedly causing the crash that killed Musil, according to court records.

A U.S. Army veteran who served in Afghanistan, Musil was remembered by hundreds at a public funeral.

A public fundraising campaign through crowdsourcing platform GoFundMe has raised more than $291,900 as of April 10 to support the three children of late DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil, who was killed while on duty in a car crash March 28. The GoFundMe can be accessed by this QR code via cellphone. Image provided by DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

‘In My Shoes’ art show and open mic set for May 14 in Sycamore SYCAMORE – The Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center Living Room team will host an “In My Shoes” art showcase and open mic for mental health awareness month.

The event will begin at 4:30 p.m. May 14 at Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St., Sycamore. Admission is free.

Participants can showcase their mental

illness journey. The event features art pieces, songs and short stories.

Short stories and poems will be read from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The art showcase is set for 4:30 to 7 p.m. Submissions for the event will be accepted through May 1.

Refreshments will be provided. For information, email dekalblivingroomevents@gmail.com.

– Shaw Local News Network

A photo of fallen DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil is displayed April 4 during her visitation and funeral in the Convocation Center at Northern Illinois University. Musil, 35, was killed March 28 while on duty after a truck rear-ended her police vehicle in Waterman.

Kishwaukee River Watershed committee to hold workshop

Property owners in Genoa, Kingston, Kirkland encouraged to attend

GENOA – A group dedicated to restoring waters in the Kishwaukee River watershed will host a public meeting next week and invites residents, especially those who live in the northern DeKalb County watershed, to weigh in on plans to steward the land.

The workshop, hosted by the Kishwaukee River Watershed Central South Branch watershed steering committee, will begin at 6 p.m. April 18 at Genoa City Hall, 333 E. First St.

Residents who own land near the south branch of the Kishwaukee River, Deer Creek or Bull Run Creek especially are invited to attend, as the watershed affects that land directly, according to a news release from the group. That includes those in Genoa, Kingston and Kirkland.

The Kishwaukee River watershed is an area of land that drains streams and other waters into the river.

“People live, work and play in their watershed every day,” organizers wrote in a news release. “Stakeholders are encouraged to attend this workshop to help provide valuable input to the watershed steering committee as

they focus on how to restore impaired waters and protect unimpaired waters within the watershed.

“These communities are currently undergoing watershed-based planning, which is a tool that builds awareness of watershed issues through edu-

cation and stewardship while increasing communication and coordination. Community input is crucial to making a good plan that can lead to opportunities to implement water quality improvements.”

Attendees can provide input to focus efforts to protect the watershed’s unimpaired water and restore impaired water. The plans also will build watershed issues awareness through stewardship and education and increase coordination and communication.

Deer Creek and Bull Creek watershed residents also can attend.

The project is partially funded by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act. Local support also is provided by Section 319 of the Clean Water Act, as well as the DeKalb County Community Foundation, the city of Genoa, the village of Kingston, the village of Kirkland, DeKalb County government and the DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District, according to the release.

For information, visit dekalbcountywatersheds-il.org or call Dean Johnson at the DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District at 815-756-3234, ext. 9488.

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Mark Busch file

Colorful trees reflect in the water as Canada geese float down the Kishwaukee River on Oct. 24, 2023, in DeKalb.

Safe Passage hopes to break ground on shelter by end of year

Safe Passage executive director gives funding update to County Board

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – Between its shelter and transitional apartments, a DeKalb nonprofit organization housed 169 people in 2023, and with help from recently announced federal funding that number is set to increase, officials said April 10.

Safe Passage, a domestic violence and sexual assault crisis center in DeKalb County, has acquired a plot of land in the city of DeKalb. Mary

Ellen Schaid, the organization’s executive director, said the parcel will be the site of a “better and larger shelter” for the agency during a presentation to the DeKalb County Board Committee of the Whole.

“We’re working very hard to raise the funds, and we’re hoping to get as much support from the community as we can,” Schaid said. “We’ve gotten some federal dollars with the help of our Congressional representative Lauren Underwood, who’s amazing. So we’re about halfway there. We’re going to get there. We’re hoping to break ground by the end of this year.”

Safe Passage was awarded $2.5 million in funding as part of a $12.6 million federal funding package secured with help from Underwood’s office.

The funding was divided between 14 projects in Illinois’ 14th District that Underwood, D-Naperville, represents, including $1 million for Hinckley Public Library.

In 2023, Safe Passage housed 94 adults and 45 children in its current DeKalb-based shelter, Schaid said. Also that year, 14 adults and 15 children were housed in apartments in a two-year transitional program with the agency.

Safe Passage provides more ser -

vices than simple shelter, however. Almost 300 people, including many who were not residents of the shelter or apartment program, received domestic violence counseling services through Safe Passage in 2023, and 96 clients took part in the organization’s sexual assault program, Schaid said.

Safe Passage was founded in DeKalb in 1981. In the decades since, multiple survivors of domestic violence have found refuge in the organization’s services – including some members of the DeKalb County Board.

“I utilized Safe Passage when I was a very young mother in a violent situation, and I’m now an elected official and I have a master’s [degree]. You guys are awesome. You rock,” said DeKalb County Board member Amber Quitno, a Democrat from District 3.

DeKalb County Board member Rukisha Crawford, a Democrat from District 6, said Quitno wasn’t the only County Board member who’s previously used Safe Passage services.

“I’ve had to use it as well, so thank you for all you do,” Crawford said.

“That’s the thing about it. It’s that anybody can be a victim of domestic violence,” Schaid said. “It’s not just poor people. It’s not just people we think. No, it’s not like that. It’s anybody, and everybody should seek help.”

Schaid said victims of sexual assault and domestic violence often have complex needs, and shelter living isn’t the most robust solution for all who seek services through Safe Passage. To combat that, the agency offers transitional apartment living, too, where clients can live for up to two years.

Sharing a success story from Safe Passage, Schaid spoke of a Ukranian woman who came to the shelter having suffered abuse. The woman later went on to earn degrees at local higher education institutions and started a successful career.

“She moved out of the apartment. She was a very, very, strong success story,” Schaid said. “She was so successful that when the war in Ukraine started, when Russia attacked Ukraine, she was able to afford to bring both her parents here to the U.S. for their safety.”

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American Legion Post 66 awarded grant from DeKalb

Architectural Improvement Program grant to help Post install new electronic sign

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – American Legion Post 66 is getting a hand up from the city of DeKalb with paying for a new electronic sign.

At a recent public meeting, the DeKalb City Council decided to award $8,119 in Architectural Improvement Program grant funds to the post, as part of the city’s program to incentivize redevelopment in commercial areas outside the boundaries of the downtown tax increment financing district.

American Legion Post 66 Commander Manny Olalde said he appreciates the city’s support of the post.

“This enables us to continue to build our stronger ties between our American Legion and our city leaders and business owners and residents in DeKalb,” Olalde said.

Olalde said the grant funds will be used to reimburse the post for purchasing the new sign.

The post intends to replace the

existing wooden sign outside its facility to inform the public about its annual events and meetings, as well as those of other veterans organizations.

The digital display also will provide welcoming messages to visitors traveling the Fourth Street corridor.

The sign has not yet been installed as of Monday. Council action is contingent on additional approvals of sign and electrical permits by the city.

Olalde said the city’s grant will

allow the Legion post to use their own money elsewhere to give back.

“One of those funds that this allows us to continue with is the DeKalb High School American Legion Scholarships where we offer $500 to one graduating senior, male and female. That’s a quick $1,000 drop in our account. We’d rather spend money giving back to the community,” Olade said.

Olalde said the last time time the post had to make significant invest -

ments to its facilities was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’ve had a lot of renovations done a couple years back during COVID,” he said. “We had completely remodeled the inside. Again, that was a self-funded remodel. That was the last time, and we’ve been in that building since 1997. Everything had served its purpose. Everything had started to need updating and upgrading. The interior in itself was a major hit to our American Legion.”

Olalde said he was glad to learn the Legion qualified for the city’s Architectural Improvement program, especially since the Legion is outside of the city’s downtown TIF district.

The city is embarking on a study to determine if it should implement another TIF District for the Fourth Street corridor.

The grant comes as a relief to the post and its members, Olalde said.

“There’s a lot of little things that are pretty costly to the veteran community that we would like to be out there doing fundraisers but have no real means of letting the public know exactly what we do,” he said. “This signage, once we get signage complete, will be a visual for our community to see and it’ll dress up the Fourth Street corridor.”

Megann Horstead file

American Legion Post 66, 1204 S. Fourth St. in DeKalb, is seen March 11.

Photo provided by the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce

The Sycamore Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Majeski Motors to its membership. Chamber staff, board members and community members celebrated with a ribbon-cutting on March 28. Majeski Motors, 1710 DeKalb Ave. in Sycamore, offers customers convenient and fast ways to research and find the right used vehicle. For information, call 815-526-7900 or visit majeskimotors.com.

Eyes on the sky for solar eclipse viewing in DeKalb County

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – People across DeKalb County stopped what they were doing for a few minutes April 8, went outside, donned a pair of special glasses and looked up at the sky, captivated by the same thing: a solar eclipse not expected to be visible again until 2045.

“It looks awesome,” said Mollie Schmoll, a North Elementary School kindergarten teacher in Sycamore, shortly before she took her students outside to view the solar eclipse. “I think the kids are going to really think it’s really cool.”

DeKalb County’s youngest students weren’t the only pupils observing and learning about the rare event. A solar eclipse watch party hosted by the Northern Illinois University Observatory on campus was attended by hundreds of people.

Marc Crowell, a 29-year-old NIU graduate student studying physics, said he was an undergraduate student at NIU in August 2017 – the last time the area experienced a solar eclipse. He still was surprised by the turnout, however.

“I’m happy to see so many people show up. I’m also happy there isn’t a cloud in the sky,” Crowell said. “It’s a nice day, a perfect day for a solar eclipse viewing.”

A solar eclipse – when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, blocking out the light and casting a shadow on what otherwise might be a sunny day – was visible April 8 in North America. As the moon blocked sunlight and the Earth rotated, the moon’s shadow created a path called the totality, according to NASA.

DeKalb County did not experience totality – when the moon completely blocks sunlight from reaching an area during a solar eclipse – but in southern Illinois, Carbondale and Evansville experienced the celestial event between 1:59 and 2:05 p.m.

At the same time, viewers in DeKalb County were able to see only a small sliver of the sun peek around the moon in what is known as a partial eclipse.

Eclipse glasses, which are specifically crafted to allow users to watch the solar eclipse without damaging their eyesight, were necessary to directly observe the event.

Ashley Maki, 32, got a pair of eclipse glasses by attending the Total Eclipse of the Park event hosted by the Sycamore Public Library and Sycamore Park District at the district’s Community Center, 480 Airport Road.

“Everybody keeps talking about the glasses and stuff, so I figured I’ve either got to find myself a pair of glasses or I’ve got to find somewhere where I can see the event happen,”

taught on the solar eclipse varied by grade level. He said many elementary school students don’t remember or weren’t around during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Maki said.

Other eclipse-viewing methods also were available to the public at the NIU Observatory watch party. Crowell operated a solar projector, which allowed observers the chance to watch the moon pass in front of the sun by looking at light projected on to a cloth.

“I’ve had a pretty good view. I’ve been here pretty much the whole time doing this, and I have watched the whole thing,” Crowell said. “And so, it’s kind of cool to get an opportunity to see from start to finish what goes on.”

Samantha Sundquist, adult services manager for Sycamore Public Library, was the lead organizer behind the Total Eclipse of the Park event.

“I just really wanted to bring the community together in a safe way, and have people that maybe would never be able to experience this, haven’t done it before, or won’t be able to do it again, to do it as a part of the library,” Sundquist said.

Dozens attended the event in Sycamore, but even more could be seen looking skyward throughout DeKalb County. About 2 p.m. – when the area was as close to totality as it would get – construction workers in Sycamore stopped to pass around a pair of eclipse glasses, residents left their homes and students in DeKalb and Sycamore were brought outside for the real-time science lesson.

Students at all Sycamore School District 427 elementary schools, and the district’s middle school, gathered outside for the occasion, district officials said.

To prepare for the eclipse, Schmoll said she’s read books and watched videos explaining solar eclipse basics

with her kindergarten class. Her students wore solar eclipse glasses that had been fashioned into paper plate masks they designed and colored.

Thomas Franks, principal of North Elementary School, said the lessons

“It’s very exciting, everybody’s super pumped to see something that’s very unique, or one of a kind,” Franks said. “Obviously, what was it seven-ish years ago we all got to see it before, but for these elementary kids, they haven’t.”

Photos by Mark Busch

Miftahal Jannat Mokarrama, a Northern Illinois University student from Bangladesh, watches the solar eclipse April 8 at an NIU viewing party behind Davis Hall in DeKalb. Attendees were treated to perfect weather to watch the rare celestial event.

The moon covers about half of the sun during the eclipse April 8 as seen from the Northern Illinois University Solar Eclipse Viewing Party behind Davis Hall in DeKalb.

DeKalb school pilots vape detectors to curb underage vape use

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – Huntley Middle School in DeKalb has been piloting the use of vape detectors throughout all student restrooms in its building.

Officials have called the program a success so far, as DeKalb School District 428 looks to be more proactive about cracking down on underage vape use among students.

It is all part of an effort to help promote and protect the health, wellness and safety of students amid the prevalence of underage tobacco product use. It is illegal in Illinois to use vape products or e-cigarettes under the age of 21.

More than 2.1 million youth in America use e-cigarettes, according to a 2023 national survey published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

“We definitely are concerned about the health and wellbeing of our students,” Huntley Middle School principal Treveda Shah said. “Looking at national news, we know that that’s what’s trending in our middle and high school students. So we want to make sure that we’re keeping our students safe.”

The FDA’s 2023 findings show a decline in high school-aged students using e-ciagrettes compared to 2022, however. More than one in four of the 2.1 million youth who said they use e-cigarettes do so daily, according to the FDA’s findings.

Vape detectors were first installed in all the student restrooms throughout Huntley Middle School in November 2023.

Upon sensing vapor, alerts are sent to staff to monitor students in real time.

If a student is caught vaping in the restrooms and it’s a first offense, students have to use an alternate, single-stall restroom for a predetermined length of time. Because discipline is progressive, each occurrence is viewed on a case-by-case basis and parents are notified in every situation.

According to data provided by the district, the building saw two of its highest reported number of alerts on Dec. 10, 2023, and Dec. 13, 2023. A recorded decrease followed when the district sent a letter home to parents detailing how some parents were caught vaping in restrooms during after-school events.

Shah said the vape detectors are not hidden, they are in plain sight.

“[Students] know they’re there,” Shah said. “Parents know they’re there. Parent letter went out. Everyone knows that they’re there. … Their [students’] frontal lobe is not fully developed, and they think that they can get away stuff.”

Dr. Blair Wright, a pediatrician at Northwestern Medicine Valley West Hospital in Sandwich, said that keeping

lines of communication open is key to working with kids.

“It’s important for parents and teachers to know that kids are doing this, whether they’re talking to us about it or not,” Wright said. “It would be good to be really open and up front with our kids and talk, like ‘Hey, there are people in your peer groups that might be vaping or might start vaping. Is this something you’ve seen at school? Is this something that your friends have talked about?’ Just kind of open the conversation with their teens and even pre-teens at this age to talk about it pretty openly, so that if kids do start experimenting with that, they feel more comfortable going to their trusted adults and keeping that dialogue open.”

It remains unclear what, if any, health consequences vape presents to those who start vaping as teens.

“It’s not super well studied,” Wright said. “That’s part of the fear. We don’t know exactly what’s going to be found over time with it. It is a pretty novel thing. So we don’t know what the longterm effects will be for kids who start vaping as teenagers.”

Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can negatively impact adolescent and youth brain development, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Some might be marked as having no nicotine in them, though have retroactively been found to contain nicotine, according to the CDC. Flavoring for e-cigarettes have been linked to serious lung disease, the CDC reports, and the aerosol from a vape pen can include cancer-causing chemicals.

Among some of the initiatives, the district is touting as it seeks to make inroads in curbing underage vaping is its partnerships with Menta Academy and Family Service Agency, Shah said.

“We have conversations with parents,” Shah said. “We definitely make sure that school-to-family … bridge is intact, but also with sending them to Menta or Family Service Agency would be to help them with their education, so that we’re not suspending them and they get that education piece of ‘You’re consistently being caught vaping. Let me send you to this program.’ Maybe you have a problem, maybe you don’t. But we want to, again, get in front of that.”

In her remarks at a recent school board meeting, DeKalb Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez said she’s already begun talks about the possibility of installing vape detectors at DeKalb High School.

“More indication to come later,” Garcia-Sanchez said. “I just want to make sure that we’re ready to be advocates for that.”

The vape detectors installed at Huntley Middle School cost the district $12,402 in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief III funds, officials said.

When asked if vape detectors have a demonstrated full-proof ability to sense and deter first-time and repeat offenses, Shah said the detectors are meant to help awareness, too.

“We want to make sure we’re staying on the education side of it,” Shah said. “[We’re] not trying to trick them. It’s not anything foolproof. We want to stay in front of what’s happening, so

that the safety of our students is at the forefront of everything that we do.”

But at the same time, Shah said she is optimistic about the prospect of the district expanding the vape detector program’s reach to another school.

“What we’re doing here at Huntley Middle School is kind of three-fold,” Shah said. “One, health concerns. Again, we know this is trending across the nation, not just at Huntley Middle School. Because we know that it’s happening, we want to be in front it, especially with health concerns. Vaping hasn’t been around for 25, 30 years. There’s still some studies going on. So we want to make sure our students are safe. … Compliance and policies with the district, student are not supposed to be vaping, smoking, doing any of those types of things here on any school grounds. So we want to stay in front of that. We also want to be able to educate our students about their selves, their health, their wellbeing and what they could possibly look for as far as longterm issues.”

Wright doesn’t discredit the merits of vape detectors, but said it’s too early to give them credence.

“The evidence is still out on whether that will lead to a decrease in vaping or not,” Wright said. “I think it’s important to try new solutions. So, the vape detectors are one of those, especially since kids are hiding use and kids are reporting that they’re doing it at school. I think that is one good step to take to identifying who is vaping and help them get the help that they need. Jury is still out on whether that’ll have longterm beneficial effects or not. But it’s worth trying something.”

Mark Busch

A vape detector is active in a boys restroom at Huntley Middle School in DeKalb. The school is piloting a vape detector program in hopes of curbing the use of vape products among youth in the community.

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2016 JCB 26 0T ECO, newer tracks, diesel, cab/AC/heat, 1 286 hrs., 72” bucket; 20 13 JCB 260T ECO, new All-Te rrain/snow trac ks (1/24), diesel, cab/AC/heat, 623 hrs., 78” bucket; 2 015 JCB ECO, diesel, cab/AC/h eat, 1203 hrs., 72 ” bucket; 20 13 JCB 260 ECO, diesel, cab/ heat, 1091 hrs., 78 ” bucket; 2013 JCB 260 ECO, diesel, cab/heat, 1230 hrs., 72 ” bucket; 2 012 JCB 260 ECO, diesel, cab/he at, 1634 hrs., 72” bucket; Berlon pallet forks, 48 ”; Pallet Forks: 40”; 4' bucket teeth; (4) 1216.5 Skid steer tires. Snow Pushers: (2 ) Arctic 10LD, sectional, 10'; (2) Arctic 10.5 LD, sectional, 10.5?; (7) 10' snow pushers. 2017 Ford F450 Super Duty XL, ext/super cab, 90874 miles, 4x4, dual wheel, 6.7L Power Stroke, Turbo, diesel, auto tran s, A/C, Knapheide 9' landscape dump body w/fl ip down sides, Western 8.5' Pro Plus snowplow w/hand control; 2016 Ford F450 Super Duty, ext/super cab, 91317 miles, 4x4, dual wheel, 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, auto tran s, A/C, 9' l andscape dump body w/flip down sides, West ern 9' Pro Plus snowplow w/ hand control; 2007 IH 4300, DT466 , auto trans, 2wd, A/C, 139,576 miles, 10' steel dump body, Meyer hyd. tailgate spreader w/li quid control brine tank, new liquid pump, Meyer 10' V plow w/ hand cont rols; 2 005 IH 4400, DT 466, auto trans, 2WD, 156,753 mi les, br and new tire rod ends, cent ral hydraulics, Salt Dog stainless steel 10' V Box, hyd. salter municipal 9 yd., (2) 100 gal brine tanks, spray bar, Western 10' municipal hy d snow plow w/hand cont rols: (5) Western Striker, SS, Salt Spreaders; (3) 9'-4 .5 yd; (1 ) 9'-3.0 yd; (1) 8'x2.0 yd (3) RC 7'x16 Enclosed Trailers w/ramp doors; Cargomate 7'x16' Encl osed trailer w/ ramp door; Eagle 7'x1 8' flatbed/skid steer tra iler, 2' dove tail w/ ramps; Rice 7 x 18 skid steer/flatbed trailer w/ 2' dove tail w/ ramps, 2004 PJ dump trailer 14' , 6 x 10 enclosed trailer. (6) Exmark Lazer Z X-Series, mowers, Kawasaki 25 .5 hp., 60” deck, (2) Polaris Sportsman 570 EFI ATV, On Demand AW D, 165 hrs & 230 hrs w/electric winch, with ne wer 5' Warne r electric snowplows, rear salters; ultra vac unit for Exmark Lazer Z, 3 bagger, 2016 Perma Green Triumph, spreader/spr ayer, 145 hrs., 24 gal; 2006 Perma Green, Magnum SS, spreader/sprayer, 428 hrs., 11 gal; Western Pro Plus 9' snow plow; Western 8.5' snow plow; Little Wonder bedshaper, 904-00-01, 900 hydrostatic; Ryan 544954C Sod Cutter; EDCO BB 14G-9 H bric k saw w/ stand, 14'; Wacker Neuson B550-4S Rammer; Wacker VP113 5A Vibratory pl ate; Hobart Ironman 210 MI G Welder, w/gas cylinder; Sandborn 60 gal air compressor; Hot-2-Go SH40004HH hot water pressure washer; 50 ton bul k white deicer

CLASSICS WANTED

Rest ored or Unrestored

Cars & Vi ntage Motorcycles

Domestic / Import Cars:

Merced es, Po rsche, Cor vett e, Fe rraris, Jagu ars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & M opars

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc. Collector James

630- 201 -8122

MOTORCYCLES WANTED

All Makes, Cash Paid, Reasonable. Will Pick-Up. 630- 660-0571

bidders are admonished to check

bidder for cash as set forth below, the following described real estate:

PIN 19-36-109-008

Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 123 E. College Street Sandwich, IL 60548

Court file to verify all information. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER

Publis her's Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housin g Act which makes it illegal to advertise "any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familia status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination."

Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18 This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violatio n of the law. Ou r readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis

To complain of discrimination call HUD 1-800-669-9777 Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

DEKALB COUNT YSYCAMORE, IL LINOIS

U.S. Bank Nati onal Association, as Trustee for Structured Asset Securities Corporation Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-NC1

PLAINTIFF Vs Richard L. Van Deusen; et al

DEFENDANTS

No. 2018C H000172

NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 03/28/2019, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on May 23, 2024 at the hour of 1:00 PM at Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Sycamore, IL 60178, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 19-36-109-008

Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 123 E. College Street Sandwich, IL 60548

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxe s, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxe s, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)

If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises

The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property.

Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information.

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDAN CE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

NED CREDIT RISK TRANSFER TRUST, SERIES 2019-3, Plaintiff, vs JUSTIN JOY, ILLINOIS COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 FC 81 NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE

and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)

If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney

If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community the

place otherwise designated at the

of

County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash as set forth below, the following described real estate: LOT 5 IN BLOCK 7 IN GAGE'S ADDITION TO THE ORIGINAL TOWN (NOW CITY) OF SANDWICH, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK "A" OF PLATS, PAGE 25 ON SEPTEMBER 6, 1856 IN DEKALB COUNTY ILLINOIS. PIN 19-36-109-008 Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 123 E. College Street Sandwich, IL 60548

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises

The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information.

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDAN CE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE

If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007 purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)

If the property is located in a common interest

For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C.,

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxe s, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007 purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)