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DeKalb Chamber to host Local Showcase and Job Fair April 25

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – More than 70 local businesses and nonprofits are expected to be highlighted this month as part of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce’s Local Showcase and Job Fair.

The annual event – which will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. April 25 at the DeKalb Sports and Recreation Center, 1765 S. Fourth St., DeKalb – aims to serve as a one-stop shop for people to get information and meet with potential employers.

“This is the third year that we’re having a local showcase and job fair at the DeKalb Sports and Recreation Center, and it is free to attend,” said Virginia Filicetti, the Chamber’s marketing and events manager. “It is welcome to everyone. There is

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

Kishwaukee College hosts

Artist in Residence certified florist coordinator

MALTA – The Kishwaukee College horticulture department recently hosted Illinois certified professional florist coordinator Ronda Hess as part of the college’s Artist In Residence program.

The program is offered through the American Institute of Floral Designers, according to a news release.

Hess presented a floral design demonstration to associate professor of horticulture Janey Gallagher’s advanced floral class and members of the Student American Institute of Floral Designers Floral Club.

free parking. There is no fee to be admitted into the event. … It’s very easy to get to.”

The event will operate similar to years past, but there will be many different vendors on hand as well, Filicetti said.

“It’s a great chance to meet over 70 local businesses and nonprofits that are handing out information, giveaways and then, of course, seeking any open job positions that they have,” Filicetti said. “It’s a really easy event to meet a lot of organizations all at one time.”

Filicetti said the Chamber is doing its part to ensure that job seekers can clearly identify the local businesses and nonprofits that are hiring.

“We make sure that is clearly marked on their booth,” she said. “If someone is coming just to look for jobs, they know what vendors are seeking job seekers. So we make it very easy for our attendees to

know who to visit among all the vendors that we have.”

There will be booths split between two gyms, which Filicetti said goes to show people how much the event will have to offer.

“There’s something always around the corner, which is kind of cool,” she said.

Filicetti encourages local businesses and nonprofits to sign up for a booth at the event if they have not already.

“It’s great for residents to come to the event, but on the flip side, it’s even better for businesses and nonprofits to get a booth at the event because they get to meet potential clients, potential customers, and see who is in the community and who might want their resources or need their resources and new customers, they can sell their products to,” she said. “It goes both ways. It’s a win-win.”

Students received experience in hands-on triangle floral arrangement variations.

Hess is a certified floral designer. She was inducted into the institute in 2005.

Hess is the Illinois State Florists’ Association’s hands-on and online certification classes state coordinator. She works as a Hy-Vee floral designer in Bloomington.

The program brings industry professionals and floral design students together at colleges and universities with student institute chapters.

For information, visit kish.edu/horticulture.

– ShawLocalNewsNetwork

ARE WE DOING?

Photo provided by Kishwaukee College Kishwaukee College horticulture students learn Ronda Hess’ floral arrangement techniques.

KVAL honors 4 students for outstanding work

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – The Kishwaukee Valley Art League recently honored four local high school students as emerging artists.

Janis Schnurr-Trebe and Kelli Petit of Sycamore High School and Lane Schumacher and Natalia Serpico of DeKalb High School were nomiminated by their art teachers for outstanding work.

The honorees presented artwork and explained their creative process during a recent league meeting.

KVAL’s next general meeting is set for 7 p.m. May 2 at Gallery on State, 322 W. State St. in Sycamore. Members will present art pieces created to interpret the topic “Another Country/Another Culture.” The public is invited.

Also on May 2, the league – a nonprofit – will participate in Give DeKalb County for the eighth year.

Upcoming programs at Gallery on State include the Second Saturday series led by KVAL member Wayne Roe. The theme will be “Flowers.” The free class will be held from 10 a.m. to noon May 11. Attendees are

Spring Dance Concert

Directed by Marc Macaranas and Sarita Smith Childs

April 25-28

O’Connell Theatre

encouraged to bring their own art supplies.

Artist Sharon Saponari will teach a “Flowerpot Painting” class from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. May 17. Registration is required to attend.

Gallery on State also will participate in Sycamore School District’s “Art Walk” in downtown Sycamore from 5 to 7 p.m. May 7.

KVAL will host the 53rd annual

Northern Illinois Art Show June 1-2 on the lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse, 133 W. State St., Sycamore. The show features more than 65 artists exhibiting various mediums. KVAL members also will have a group exhibit. The art show includes an “Art of Giving” raffle. Attendees can win original art pieces donated by KVAL members and vendors. The proceeds

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.

April 27 Banda NIU and Mariachi, 7 p.m.

April 28 NIU Philharmonic, NIU Concert Choir and University Chorus, 3 p.m.

April 30 Electronic Music Concert, 7 p.m.

May 2 Chamber Brass Large Ensembles, 7 p.m. Avalon String Quartet

will support KVAL’s philanthropy program. Live music will be featured and food will be provided by local Boy Scouts.

The gallery’s most recent artwork rotation began April 15. It can be viewed or purchased through July 15.

The featured artist for May is Barb Taylor. Her work will be display in the gallery’s east window and adjoining wall.

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

Bachelor of Art and Bachelor of Science Show

April 29 - May 3

Still Hall Room 01

Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition

April 29 - May 6

Jack Olson Gallery and Annette and Jerry Johns Student Art Gallery

Photo provided by the Kishwaukee Valley Art League LEFT: Local students Lane Schumacher (from left), Kelli Petit, Janis Schnurr-Trebe and Natalia Serpico were honored by the Kishwaukee Valley Art League. RIGHT: A painting by Barb Taylor, the featured artist for May at Gallery on State in Sycamore, is pictured.

DeKalb County and Family Service Agency of DeKalb County, was held in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Working on behalf of kids

DeKalb County advocates, court officials work together to fight child abuse

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – Dozens gathered April 16 in front of the DeKalb County Courthouse in Sycamore to raise awareness for National Child Abuse Prevention Month, hosted by area agencies that work to put children’s needs first.

The annual event, called Hands Around the Courthouse, was hosted by CASA DeKalb County, which provides trained advocates for children involved in the court system due to parental or guardian abuse or neglect. The advocates work on behalf of the child to make court recommendations and represent children as Guardian ad Litem. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates.

Jill Olson, executive director of CASA DeKalb County, said she’d

recently heard a phrase relevant to CASA’s mission that’s stuck with her.

“A child’s shoulders are not meant to bear the burden of their parent’s choices, and I think that rings so true for all of us who work directly or indirectly in the field of child welfare,” Olson said. “We see these kids who through no fault of their own eventually become a part of the court system because their parents have abused and neglected them. So we are here today to remind all of us that what it boils down to is those children. That’s who should be front and center.”

While CASA DeKalb County took the lead in planning for this year’s event, officials said Family Service Agency of DeKalb County, helped host. The agency provides DeKalb County children age-appropriate prevention education and coordinates services and safe, child-sensitive support through its Children’s Advocacy Center to abused children and non-offending family members.

Numerous advocates from CASA, on- and off-duty police officers from

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Jill Olson (from left), executive director of CASA DeKalb County, Sarah Gallagher Chami, associate judge for the 23rd Judicial Circuit Court, and DeKalb County State’s Attorney Rick Amato stand in front of the DeKalb County Courthouse April 16 during the Hands Around the Courthouse event in Sycamore. The event, hosted by CASA

• CASA

Continued from page 4

DeKalb and Sycamore, and a handful of people representing Bikers Against Against Child Abuse – a group that works to create a safer environment for abused children – attended the event.

Associate Judge of the 23rd Judicial Circuit Court, Sarah Gallagher Chami, presides over child abuse cases at DeKalb County Courthouse. On April 16, she told the crowd that more than 600,000 children are abused in the U. S. every year, according to the National Children’s Alliance.

“Child abuse is an epidemic that most people don’t want to acknowledge,” Gallagher Chami said. “Child abuse can be open and obvious, or veiled and concealed. Child abuse can be physical, mental, emotional. Child abuse is traumatic.”

Children younger than a year old comprise 15% of all child abuse victims, according to the National Children’s Alliance.

DeKalb County State’s Attorney Rick Amato said organizations like CASA DeKalb County offer unwavering commitment to supporting children experiencing the lasting pain of real trauma.

Amato also said he’s studied Adverse Childhood Experience surveys for the past several years and has been astounded by his findings.

“It’s a 10-question exam, 10 life scenarios,” Amato said. “I encourage everybody to simply take a look at it.

But what you will feel, what you will experience after doing so will change you. You see, the scoring of ACES predicts the future, it predicts of what comes in our school. It predicts the future of what goes in our hospitals, it’s going to predict the future of what comes into our courthouse.”

Amato said those who dealt with adverse childhood experiences are more likely to deal with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder and health issues – including cancer – than those who didn’t experience the same kind of trauma as a child.

“When I was looking at it, the thing that stopped me right in my tracks is that those with ACES, versus those that don’t, face a life expectancy 20 years less,” Amato said.

Considering the plight of abused and neglected children, Gallagher Chami said she thinks it’s an honor and a privilege she gets to preside over DeKalb County abuse and neglect court, despite the subject matter she’s required to make rulings on.

“I get to see firsthand the organizations in our community who provide support to these families and children.

CASA DeKalb County, the Family Service Agency and Safe Passage are a few of the organizations who provide invaluable support to the victims of child abuse,” Gallagher Chami said. “These organizations that are bringing awareness today serve our children in their darkest hours as their champion. We in the court system are grateful for the attention that is paid to the serious issue of child abuse in this community.”

Mark Busch

Members of the Fox Valley Illinois chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse listen to speakers April 16 during the Hands Around the Courthouse event at the DeKalb County Courthouse in Sycamore. The event, hosted by CASA DeKalb County and Family Service Agency of DeKalb County, was held in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

A CLOSER LOOK Greater public access

Did you know about the self help center in DeKalb County Courthouse?

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – A program created and hosted by the DeKalb Circuit Clerk in the DeKalb County Courthouse is helping people navigate the nuances of the Illinois justice system, and officials said it’s a free service for all.

The DeKalb County Courthouse Self Help Center is open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday on the first floor of the courthouse, 133 W. State St. in Sycamore.

DeKalb County Circuit Clerk Lori Grubbs said the Circuit Clerk’s Office received grant funding in July 2021 to create the self help center. Nearly two years on, Grubbs said she’s been pleasantly surprised by how frequently the Center is utilized by the public.

The space was used 604 times between November 2023 and the end of January 2024, Grubbs said.

“I’ll be honest, I expected good numbers – I did not expect it to be that high. It just goes to show that the room is definitely needed,” Grubbs said.

Between the COVID-19 pandemic and a lack of available space, the center initially was set up in the civil division of the Clerk’s Office on the second floor of the building.

That has since changed, and the Self Help Center has called the first floor its home since early July 2022. Members of the public or those looking for help finding, filing or accessing documentation relevant to criminal or civil court cases, or other aspects of records are welcome to walk in to the room directly opposite the front lobby. The room is right before the hallway to the DeKalb County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Outfitted with computers, chairs and printers, anyone can use the courthouse’s online court database also to look up cases and read records.

The Self Help Legal Center is a space where individuals can receive assistance in filing electronic documents, navigating the courthouse and directions to useful resources. Patrons will not receive legal advice, however.

Anyone who uses the room is bound to meet Nick DeMarco, 23, a member of the Illinois Justice Corps – an AmeriCorps program – who has been given a one-year fellowship to man the center.

DeMarco said the room was created for self-representing litigants but is most often used to file electronic documents.

“Whenever somebody needs to file appearances, motions into civil cases or if they’re trying to get an order of protection they can come here, and we help them file it,” DeMarco said.

The amount of people using the space varies each day, but on average the space helps about 200 individuals a month, DeMarco said. He figures 1,400 people have used the service since he began his position in August 2023.

“I can give legal information, not legal advice. And so anything that would not help one side of the case more than the other I can provide, so I can tell them what type of forms are available, I can give information about the courthouse, court dates, like what a motion would be used for, but I can’t tell them ‘Oh you should file a motion to get this,’ ” DeMarco said. Before

Whenever somebody needs to file appearances, motions into civil cases or if they’re trying to get an order of protection they can come here, and we help them file it.”

Nick DeMarco, DeKalb County Courthouse Self Help Legal Center

DeMarco was brought on, Benji Meier worked in the space. As deputy clerk to Lori Grubbs he has a variety of other responsibilities and could only keep the Self Help Legal Center open for a half day, three days a week.

Meier said DeMarco’s presence has transformed his workload, and allowed for greater public access to the

resource.

“Nick has been a big help, especially with us clerks having a dedicated person and space to send people to fill out paperwork, to help e-file,” Meier said. “It’s a great resource to have, it really lightens the load.”

DeMarco’s tenure at DeKalb County Courthouse will end this summer, but he doesn’t plan on leaving the legal side of the criminal justice system. Come this fall he hopes to be enrolled in law school, but he’s yet to decide where he’ll attend as admittance letters still are being mailed to him, he said.

That means there’s a chance DeMarco could one day offer legal advice, like the members of the DeKalb County Bar Association who come into the courthouse twice a month to offer free legal advice to those using the Self Help Legal Center.

It also means Grubbs and Meier

Mark Busch

Nick DeMarco, 23, who works in the DeKalb County Courthouse Self Help Legal Center, talks April 16 about the benefits the center provides those who use it. The center, which is on the first floor of the courthouse, provides procedural and legal information, forms, e-filing assistance and other resources to the public.

‘Frame of Mind’ art exhibit runs through May 19 at Ellwood House

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – The second annual “Frame of Mind” art exhibit has opened at the Ellwood House Museum.

The exhibit will be on display through May 19 in the museum’s Ellcourt House, 420 Linden Place in DeKalb.

The exhibit features work created by DeKalb County students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The “Frame of Mind” initiative celebrates student artists.

Artwork was submitted by DeKalb County teachers and selected by Kishwaukee Valley Art League and Jubilee Artisans members. Local businesses can rent the artwork for one year to display in their stores, lobbies and offices after the exhibit has concluded.

For information, visit ellwoodhouse.org/youth-programs.

• LEGAL CENTER

Continued from page 6

It also means Grubbs and Meier will lose man power, but Grubbs said they’re already working to find some-

one who will enable her office to keep the Center open five days a week, like it currently operates.

“We’re actually interviewing to get another Illinois Justice Corps [person] in there,” Grubbs said. “It has been fabulous having [DeMarco] in there.”

Image provided by the Ellwood House Museum

“Face the Fire” by Grace Paulson

Mark Busch

Nick DeMarco, 23, who works in the DeKalb County Courthouse Self Help Legal Center, talks April 16 about the benefits that the center provides those who use it. The center, which is on the first floor of the courthouse, provides procedural and legal information, forms, e-filing assistance and other resources to the public.

Kish College names essay contest winner

achievement

a $500 scholarship for the spring semester

the Board

a certificate

Trustees April meeting, according to a news release. His essay, titled “How Kishwaukee College Changed My Life,” reflects how the school provided him the opportunity to revisit his higher education goals after 15 years. Hall also saw the essay as an opportunity to create further inspiration. His essay was forwarded to the Illinois Community College Trustees Association to be entered in the statewide Paul Simon Student Essay competition. Hall expects to graduate with an associate’s degree in May. He plans to transfer to a four-year university to receive a bachelor’s degree and an education doctorate and

KC nursing student earns scholarship

scholarship

a

achievement

Board

spring

Trustees April meeting,

a news release. Entrants wrote an essay outlining a nonviolent response plan to discrimination and hate based on the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi. Gonzales’s essay focused on providing the community education and examining hate and discrimination issues through personal connections. Her essay was submitted to the Illinois Community College Trustees Association to be entered in the statewide competition. Gonzales expects to graduate with a registered nursing degree in May. She plans on working at a regional hospital and earning a nursing degree and nurse practitioner license. To read Gonzales’s essay, visit kish. edu/iccta.

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Photo provided by Kishwaukee College Pedro Hall recently was named the winner of Kishwaukee College’s 2024 Paul Simon Student Essay Contest. Hall received

and

of

during

of

pursue a career in special education. To read Hall’s essay, visit kish.edu/iccta. Pictured (from left) are Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees Chair Bob Johnson, Pedro Hall and Kishwaukee College President Laurie Borowicz.

Photo provided by Kishwaukee College Kishwaukee College nursing student Perla Gonzales recently was named the recipient of the 2024 Gandhi/King Peace Scholarship. Gonzales received a $500

for the

semester and

certificate of

during the

of

according to

Pictured (from left) are Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees Chair Bob Johnson, Perla Gonzales, and Kishwaukee College President Laurie Borowicz.

LOOKING BACK

1924 – 100 YEARS AGO

Although it has been declared against the traffic rules of the city, several autoists have acquired the habit of backing around a corner onto a side street or the Lincoln Highway rather than drive like a clock and make a turn. This is a dangerous practice and should be given careful consideration by the public. There are always pedestrians on the intersections and often times there are small children about to cross the street who do not expect a machine to be coming at them in that manner. Police department officials announced several months ago that this was contrary to the rules and it is probable that if the practice keeps up, some arrests will be made.

As a result of someone carelessly leaving his Ford automobile parked on the highway near Creston last night, while he made a trip to a garage for gasoline, and without lights, two DeKalb boys were slightly injured and both machines are wrecks. The two DeKalb boys were not seriously injured, although one young man suffered a serious gash in one arm, requiring the services of a surgeon. The machine had been left standing on the cement instead of being pushed to the side of the road, and the driver of the other machine did not see the darkened Ford, on account of the other cars approaching.

Work started yesterday afternoon on the filling station for Corey & Son, which will be located on the vacant lot at John Street on the Lincoln Highway. The large storage tank on the ground, the driveways have been laid out and it was expected the contractor would start the cement work today. Some delay on the driveway work is necessary on account of the proposed sewer that will be installed on John Street. P. S. Corey states today that he hopes the contractor will keep at his task until the building is completed, that he may be able to get started at the earliest time possible.

Movers today began the task of moving a house on Grove Street in DeKalb adjoining the Peter Christianson property, which will be taken to another part of the city. The building has been vacated, was put on rollers and within a remarkably short time after the movers took charge today, was in the street. On account of the paved streets of DeKalb, the task of moving a building nowadays is a comparatively easy one, compared to what it was several years ago.

1949 – 75 YEARS AGO

Residents of DeKalb and a number of nearby cities will lose one hour of sleep tonight as timepieces are advanced one hour and daylight-saving time becomes the official time of the city. Daylight time will become official at 2 o’clock Sunday morning.

A pair of Chicagoans, arrested in Rockford Tuesday and returned to DeKalb County by Sheriff Arthur E. Anderson and Deputy Harry Overton were bound over to county court yesterday on charges of possessing and selling obscene literature. The pair was arraigned before Justice of the Peace A. C. Taylor in the county jail who viewed the evidence and then held them under a

$2,500 bond. The exhibits displayed by the sheriff, who said they comprised only a small portion of the loot, consisted of comic books and some of the filthiest pictures imaginable. The comic books were of a similar character, all drawn around familiar characters.

The Chicago Great Western Railroad has been given permission to discontinue two passenger trains serving Sycamore, it was learned today. First sought several weeks ago as an economy measure, the permission of the Illinois Commerce Commission for the move was obtained Wednesday after a hearing in Chicago. The trains will be annulled at midnight May 10 since the railroad had to wait 20 days after issuance of the order.

Saturday, April 23, Jerry Murad and his Harmonicats will be featured at the DeKalb Egyptian Theatre. Hailed from coast to coast as the most popular recording artists of America, and winner of the Cash Box Magazine’s national poll, conducted by the music machine operators of America, their record “Peg O’ My Heart” was selected as “The best record for 1947.”

An automobile was smashed into junk by a westbound Great Western passenger train about 1:30 o’clock this morning a mile east of Sycamore but nobody was injured. The train crew reported the car was stalled on or near the crossing near the airport a mile east of town. The car was cut in two pieces. The driver appeared shortly and rode on the engine of the train into Sycamore and then disappeared.

1974 – 50 YEARS AGO

Reports of destruction in the downtown business district and havoc raised throughout the City of Genoa took up a large segment of Genoa’s Tuesday night council meeting. A spokesman for the large group of merchants, suggested the city put a foot patrolman on the downtown streets in an effort to disperse groups before they grow into crowds.

The campaign to restore passenger train service to DeKalb was stoked with encouraging information Tuesday. NIU officials said commuter students might make the train a profitable operation, at least as far as DeKalb.

Kishwaukee College’s five-week trial bus service came to an abrupt end this week, after operating for only five days. Kishwaukee officials terminated the bus service after driver counts showed only 123 students rode the DeKalb-Sycamore bus and only 26 students rode the Rochelle bus to classes.

Vandals caused $1,200 damage to a road grader on Windsor Drive over the weekend. Police said the criminals broke windows and poured sand into the machine’s gas tank and on the motor.

The Voluntary Action Center within a period of about six months has established its physical functions in its own office, has hired a part time director and has been successful obtaining a grant in excess of $12,000 from the National Center for Voluntary Action. Serving as director of VAC is Mrs. Glorya Rubel.

1999 – 25 YEARS AGO

High winds which lashed northern DeKalb County late Wednesday night may have had some Genoa residents thinking about tornado season. Genoa officials believed their community will soon be better protected from those devastating storms, as leaders work together to upgrade the city’s outdoor warning siren system.

City officials finally said last night what most people have long taken for granted. The proposed DeKalb Regional Mall is dead. The mall was supposed to put DeKalb on the retail map. Instead, the often-delayed project produces frustration for supporters.

– Compiled by Sue Breese

Photo provided by DeKalb County History Center Northern Illinois University’s Chick Evans Field House is seen looking southwest from Lucinda Avenue in DeKalb in April 1997.

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Genoa Lions spread mulch at area parks

Photo provided by the Genoa Lions Club Genoa Lions Club volunteers recently spread mulch at three Genoa Park District parks. The work events were held from 8 to 10 a.m. April 13. The mulch was delivered by Genoa Lion and Genoa Park District Executive Director Paul Bafia before the event. Bafia was assisted by Lion Jim Sanford (from left), Genoa Lions President Mike Dreska, Lions Jerry Helland, Aric Coleman, Jeff Baker, James Dreska and Bob Becker, former Genoa Lions President Ron Sheahan, Genoa Lions Hector Feliciano, George Meckel, Mike Foss and Greg Cravatta. Paul Bafia is not pictured.

DeKALB – The DeKalb County Community Gardens released a list of May locations for the Grow Mobile, a mobile food pantry that offers free food and household items to all who visit, no requirements necessary.

The DCCG is working to ensure the well-being of residents, staff and volunteers. Organizers ask that people practice good hand hygiene and stay home if they are ill.

To receive Grow Mobile alerts, text FreeGroceries to 844-727-2012.

Grow Mobile dates in May:

• 3 to 5 p.m. May 2 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.

• 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. May 7 at the Clinton Township Community Building,

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

DeKalb Farmers Market to be discussed at lecture

DeKALB – The May hybrid Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore series at the Ellwood House Museum will feature a DeKalb Farmers Market panel.

The free event will be held at noon May 2 at the museum, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb.

The DeKalb Farmers Market is a summer event that features food trucks, fresh produce and locally made goods. Panel moderator Virginia Filicetti will discuss the importance of local food and businesses. Panelists include Stacie Miller, Baker’s Dream Dessert Co. owner; Tori Eisenberg, Nature’s Handywork owner; and Gavin Wilson, Country Financial insurance agent.

“Eat Local: Panel Discussion Featuring DeKalb Farmers Market” is part of Brown Bag Lunch/Local Lore, a free lecture series offered as part of a collaboration between the Ellwood House Museum and the DeKalb County History Center.

Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore is funded in part by the Mary E. Stevens Concert and Lecture Fund.

160 W. Lincoln Highway, Waterman.

• 11 a.m. to noon May 9 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.

• 12:30 to 3 p.m. May 14 at Family Service Agency, 1325 Sycamore Road, DeKalb.

• 3 to 5 p.m. May 14 at the Cortland Lions Club Shelter, 70 S. Llanos St., Cortland.

• 3:30 to 5 p.m. May 16 at the Malta Historical and Genealogical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta.

• 3 to 5 p.m. May 21 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.

• 11 a.m. to noon May 23 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.

• 4 to 6 p.m. May 28 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 340 W. Arnold Road, Sandwich.

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For information, visit ellwoodhouse. org/lectures.

DeKalb library group’s spring book sale begins April 26

DeKALB – The Friends of the DeKalb Public Library will host a spring book sale to support the library’s programs, books and materials.

The sale will be held from 9 to 5 p.m. April 26 and 27 and 1 to 5 p.m. April 28 in the library’s lower level, 309 Oak St. Sale books include hardcover and paperback history, science, film, fiction, art, gardening, science fiction, cookbooks, mysteries, biographies and children and teen books. Audiobooks, LPs, jigsaw puzzles CDs, and DVDs also will be for sale.

A $5-a-bag blowout sale is set for April 28.

Gently used books, CDs, puzzles, DVDs and LPs will be accepted for the sale at the circulation desk. Magazines, videotapes and textbooks are not allowed.

For information, email friends@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1030.

– Shaw Local News Network

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Living Room expands for 24/7 crisis care

Northwestern Medicine facility staff hope increased access will address growing need for mental health, substance recovery care

By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – Laura Szymanski has been in recovery since 2017 when she first sought help at the Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center.

On April 15, she joined others to announce the center’s Living Room expansion to a 24/7 operation, an effort staff said is meant to provide increased aid to those experiencing mental health or substance abuse crises.

Szymanski, who now works as a counselor at the center, 12 Health Services Drive, gathered with colleagues, including the center’s director of behavioral health services, Sabrina Nicholson. About a dozen stood outside to celebrate the facility’s expanded care with a ribbon-cutting.

At the core of Ben Gordon’s care are counselors and licensed specialists with their own lived experiences to offer a much-needed connection to clients in crisis, staff said. That is what gives Szymanski hope, a feeling she now passes on to those in her own care.

“I have been in recovery since 2017,” Szymanski said. “These days I stay on top of my laundry, I’m patient with my symptoms, but what I am most proud of – what is most dear to me – is that I’ve landed my dream job as a recovery support specialist in this Living Room. Every day I get to listen, validate, encourage, relate and advocate for guests I truly care for. So why is this so meaningful to me? Because I have been a guest at this very Living Room myself.”

Inside the Ben Gordon Center’s Living Room, clients – called guests by staff – can now walk in at any hour of the day or night, any day of the week, every day of the year if they’re experiencing mental health or substance abuse crises and want help. Guests must be 18 or older and a DeKalb County resident, but do not need to make an appointment or be a registered client of the Ben Gordon Center.

There is no cost to use The Living Room walk-in crisis center. The Center can be reached at 815-756-4875. Services also include crisis intervention planning and referrals for emergency shelter, health care and food.

Data shows increased desire for access to mental health care

Nicholson, who’s been with the Ben Gordon Center for 11 years and started as a therapist, said The Living Room sees about 150 clients per month. The need for expanded mental health services in DeKalb County is evident, she said.

Since September, attendance at the walk-in crisis center Living Room has grown by 50%, she said.

Ben Gordon Center’s expansion isn’t the only service looking to directly address calls for more mental health care in the community.

A 2023 survey published by the DeKalb County Mental Health Board showed that about one in every four survey respondents said they weren’t aware of mental health services available to them locally. Respondents also said they want to see more support or peer groups and an intensive outpatient treatment center in DeKalb County for those suffering from mental illness. A majority of respondents also said they would be most comfortable receiving mental health care at a mental health professional’s office.

A 2021 Northwestern Medicine community health needs assessment at Kishwaukee Hospital identified long wait times as a barrier for those seeking professional mental health treatment.

Kelsey Rettke

Director Sabrina Nicholson (middle) is joined by staff as she cuts the ribbon April 15 at the Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center, 12 Health Services Drive, DeKalb. Staff held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the center expanding to offer 24/7 mental health crisis care for those in need.

Continued from page 13

The assessment also stated stigma –especially among minority communities, such as those who identify as Black or male Hispanics – remains a barrier to seeking help.

In December, Northwestern Medicine Behavioral Health Services opened a youth-centered Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program at the system’s mental health clinic, 760 Foxpointe Drive, Sycamore.

“Mental health crises do not adhere to a schedule and neither should our support services,” Nicholson said. “By offering around-the-clock care we are sending a powerful message: No one should ever have to face their struggles alone. Perhaps most importantly, The Living Room program is a testament to the power of lived experience. By empowering individuals with personal experience to take on roles of leadership and support, you’re not only provided invaluable assistance to those in crisis but also dismantling stigma and stereotypes surrounding mental health.”

At night, guests will be asked to ring the doorbell but will be welcomed in for up to a 23-hour stay. The Living Room offers recliners for rest, Nicholson said.

Upon arrival, guests undergo a brief introductory assessment, where they’ll be able to tell a staffer how they’re feeling. Staff then assess the level of care needed and can connect a guest to other resources, sometimes as simple as a listening ear.

The goal of the Center is to offer immediate care and assess needs or severity such as someone’s risk of selfharm without sending a client to an emergency department, Nicholson said. An ER’s chaotic environment can often be unhelpful for someone in the sensitive and delicate throws of mental illness or addiction.

Services one might receive in the care of The Living Room include peer counseling, recovery support, mindfulness meditation, breathing exercises or doing activities, such as coloring, journaling, board games, puzzles or listening to music. Guest also can establish a wellness recovery action plan with staff.

Szymanski sought out comfort herself at the Ben Gordon Center, and said she found warmth and professionals who listened to her.

“They followed me into my confusion and my darkness. It gave me comfort that they shared their own lived experiences and their triumphs, too,” Szymanski said. “Let me tell you: My symptoms ranged from bipolar’s highs

and lows to anxiety’s prickles and distortions to ADHD’s distractibility. I used to be tormented by the thought ‘I don’t have what it takes to live the life I want.’”

With its 24/7 expansion, the Ben Gordon Center Living Room employs 17 staff, including two overnight staffers, Nicholson said. Staff tout The Living Room as a nonclinical and safe space that offers confidential and immediate help for people needing to process how overwhelming life can feel.

Michael Kokott, vice president of operations for Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee and Valley West hospitals in DeKalb and Sandwich, said the success of recovery support specialists at the Ben Gordon Center has allowed the programming to expand to other health system facilities. Northwestern Medicine Delnor and Central DuPage hospitals also will be getting the specialized staffing, he said.

“This is just a great day. It’s a way that we can serve the community,” Kokott said. “It just fills me with pride to be able to know that we have a team that can be able to provide this to the community.”

Being able to offer that overnight care is especially needed, staff said.

For those suffering mental distress, nighttime can often feel worse than the day, according to a 2021 study published by the U.S. Centers for Disease

We bring peace to nighttime panic attacks. We bring light to depression’s isolation. We are here all day and everyday to listen with empathy. With the support of The Living Room, our guests can face the day, or night, with hope. I will always share the truth: I do have what it takes to live the life I want.”

Control and Prevention. About ⅓ of adults in America report they sleep less than the recommended amount. About 20% of them also have a mental

illness diagnosis. Symptoms of diagnoses can be exacerbated by poor sleeping habits.

“We bring peace to nighttime panic attacks,” Szymanski said. “We bring light to depression’s isolation. We are here all day and everyday to listen with empathy. With the support of The Living Room, our guests can face the day, or night, with hope. I will always share the truth: I do have what it takes to live the life I want.”

Kelsey Rettke

Laura Szymanski (right), recovery support specialist, talks on April 15 about how her own experience seeking help informs her ability to care for clients at the Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center, 12 Health Services Drive, DeKalb. Center staff held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the center expanding to offer 24/7 mental health crisis care for those in need.

Laura Szymanski, Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center recovery support specialist

Give DeKalb County donation options under way

SYCAMORE – Now in its eleventh year, Give DeKalb County offers multiple ways to support nonprofit organizations. Plus, the Bonus Pool boosts every donation made.

On May 2, donors can give online all day at GiveDeKalbCounty.org.

Between now and May 2, those who prefer to donate by check can print a donation form from the website and give by mail. Donors may also drop off their donation form and check at the DeKalb County Community Foundation on May 2 during a donation dropoff event from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Give DeKalb County is coordinated by the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, a program of the DeKalb County Community Foundation. The previous 10 giving days raised more than $8.7 million combined.

“Give DeKalb County is an opportunity to make an impact by supporting local nonprofit organizations,” DCNP Director Ben Bingle said in a news release. “With so many nonprofits participating and multiple ways to give back, we are excited to see DeKalb County’s generosity in action again this year.”

Donation Options

• Online : May 2 from midnight to midnight at GiveDeKalbCounty.org using credit or debit card, electronic bank transfer, or mobile pay.

• By Mail : Through May 2, include check payable to “DCCF” for the total donation amount and Give DeKalb County mail-in donation form, mail to the DeKalb County Community Foundation – 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178.

• In-Person: May 2 donation drop-off event at the Community Foundation, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

During the in-person event, donors can bring their donation form and check to the Community Foundation, enjoy light refreshments, and watch the Give DeKalb County total grow. Those who prefer to use a donor advised fund or make a qualified charitable donation from an individual retirement account should use the mail-in donation form and mailing

process. Additional giving details are online at GiveDeKalbCounty.org/ Info/Ways-to-Give.

In 2023, Give DeKalb County attracted 8,306 donations from donors in 39 states and two countries.

“Thousands of people made a difference last year, donating over $1.8 million,” Bingle said in the release.

“Every dollar counts and the Bonus

Pool ensures every dollar goes even further during Give DeKalb County.”

Each donation made during Give DeKalb County leverages a percentage of the Bonus Pool, which is made possible by the generous support of community partners. A full list of community partners and media sponsors is available at GiveDeKalbCounty.org.

The minimum online donation amount is $5, and there is no minimum for mailed donations. For a list of participating organizations or more information about Give DeKalb County, visit GiveDeKalbCounty.org, or contact Ben Bingle at ben@dekalbccf.org. Those interested also can follow the giving day on Facebook and Instagram.

Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation

Give DeKalb County is coordinated by the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, a program of the DeKalb County Community Foundation. The previous 10 giving days raised more than $8.7 million combined.

AMUSEMENTS

bi d 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 levi ed 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 Mort gagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney

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 Mort gagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney

Upon payment in full of the amount bi d, the purchaser shal l receive a Certif icate 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 indivi duals 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 fi le 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.

For informati on: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-18-11500. I3241673 Published

Upon payment in full of the amount bi d, the purchaser shal l receive a Certif icate 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 due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

highest bi d

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 levi ed 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 Mort gagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney

Upon payment in full of the amount bi d, the purchaser shal l receive a Certif icate 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 indivi duals 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 fi le to verify all information.

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN

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