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Business owners grill DeKalb City Council over proposed special taxing area

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – A concept proposed by 6th Ward Alderman Mike Verbic for creating a special service tax for downtown DeKalb was met last week by opposition from a group of downtown business owners.

Several downtown business owners took to the podium, expressing concerns about the proposal.

Bobbi Hays, owner of Barb City Bagels and Robin’s Nest Bookshoppe, said this is a “shameful attack on small businesses” in the community.

“This council, unable to balance its budget, has decided to penalize these small businesses and property owners through this excessive and punitive downtown special service area, which in realistic terms is nothing more than a tax on small business,” Hays said.

A special service area would levy an additional tax on businesses within the downtown are to reimburse annual labor and maintenance costs over a 12-month period.

The measure could be used to help pay for a number of things, including snowplowing, sidewalk snow and ice removal, street sweeping and catch basin cleaning, city documents show. The area would include east of First Street, south of Oak Street, west of Seventh Street and north of Grove Street.

The City Council recently directed city staff not to do anything further with the proposal beyond have a discussion, however. No special tax was approved.

DeKalb Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Matt Duffy urged the council to dismiss the proposal.

“The introduction of an SSA may deter prospective businesses from establishing themselves in our downtown area,” Duffy said. “The prospects of additional taxes or

PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzlesonpage17

Volunteers Stephanie Barring (left) and Chris Sauter, both from DeKalb, pick up a Meals on Wheels delivery to distribute April 23 at the Voluntary Action Center in Sycamore. VAC is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

See story, page 6.

Photo by Mark Busch

fees could dissuade entrepreneurs and investors, ultimately hindering economic development and job creation.

“We have some openings in downtown DeKalb. As we strive to attract new businesses to our community, it’s essential to maintain an environment that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship and prosperity. Empty storefronts in the downtown area shows the opposite effects of the work that you’ve done recently to make DeKalb the place we all want it to be.”

Several city leaders – including Mayor Cohen Barnes, 1st Ward Alderwoman Carolyn Zasada and City Manager Bill Nicklas – tried to distance themselves from the idea that they were behind the proposal.

Verbic said the proposal was his idea. He said he never intended for the concept to be considered beyond a proposal for council discussion. Verbic said he would have preferred inviting business and property owners to weigh in on the matter before any council vote.

Verbic said the special tax could be used to help pay for downtown improvements.

“If this is dollars that the property owners have a voice in using, this amount of money that I would see would be the voice of the owners, the voice of the merchants,” Verbic said. “We want to have more special events. We want to have more planters. We want to have more beautiful landscaping. How do we get there?

“So, it was asked of me by property owners and others downtown, how do we get there? What are our tools? Certainly, you’ve seen us utilize [tax increment financing] for improvements downtown. Sorry about all the construction and all the disruptions that caused, but I believe that’s truly important progress downtown.”

Seventh Ward Alderman John Walker defended Verbic, saying that he wants what’s best for the city like everyone else.

“I honestly think Alderman Verbic, his heart was in the right place,” Walker said. “I think he went about it a little different. I can’t speak for him. … I honestly think he likes how DeKalb looks. He wants to keep it up to par. Maybe he didn’t go about it the right way. However, I do believe his heart was in the right place. I think that maybe going forward we go about it a different way without trying to take money out of your pockets.”

A public hearing and council vote would be required before the special tax is imposed downtown, city documents show.

The City Council would need to set the levy for the special service area every year during its budget process, city documents show.

If 51% of downtown property owners oppose the special tax, it cannot be imposed.

Nicklas said he wants it to be clear that what was before the council was merely a proposal.

Barnes, who is a downtown property owner and business owner of Sundog IT, 230 E. Lincoln Highway, said he could imagine a special service area in the city’s downtown area sometime in the future.

“I just think it’s way too early,” Barnes said. “We’re not there yet. I know you all struggled through multiple downtown revitalizations.”

The downtown area already is situated in a TIF district. The city also has two existing special service areas, including the Ridgebrook and Market Square SSAs. Leslie Conklin, owner of Found. Home and Vintage Marketplace and downtown resident, said she feels this proposal needs to be put to rest.

“I think we can find other ways to do this other than to take it out on the people who, I feel, have stuck with it through thick and thin,” Conklin said. “Now, I think you think it’s thick, and now we’re expected to pick up that bill.”

Accuracy is important to The MidWeek. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411 or email at readit@midweeknews.com.

Northern Illinois University students and friends enjoy lunch April 10 as the Open Door Coffee food truck serves customers in the background during Food Truck Wednesday on Normal Road at NIU. Food trucks, entertainment and games are available on campus from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Food Truck Wednesdays.

Come eat on this street

NIU Food Truck Wednesdays take over Normal Road in DeKalb

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – A food truck event returned for its second season this spring at Northern Illinois University, bringing with it an array of options for students, staff, DeKalb residents and community members to explore.

The event is expected to take place again from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 1 as NIU Food Truck Wednesdays take over Normal Road in front of MLK Commons. The festivities are open to the community.

Jennifer Groce, the university’s director of community promotion, said the idea behind the event was originally piloted by the university last year.

“The point of it was to take advantage of our roads that closed and bring

something fun,” Groce said. “A lot of our food trucks are local, so it was fun to introduce campus and the community to various vendors from throughout DeKalb County and beyond. It was such a success that our students gave us a clear nod. They absolutely want to see it back.”

Food Truck Wednesdays’ spring season concludes with a final event May 1. A full fall season also is planned for August through October. More information and details on parking options can be found at www.niu.edu/ outreach/programs/food-truck.shtml.

The event’s opening day saw attendees greeted by a plethora of options, including fare from Big D’s Hotdogs, Rustic Oven Woodfired Pizza and OpenDoor Coffee.

Mark Busch file photo

Continued from page 3

NIU student Kristina Starling was walking Normal Road with a fellow classmate while enjoying a charged lemonade.

“I like the different variety of food trucks,” Starling said.

Starling said she believes that events, such as NIU Food Truck Wednesdays, have become popular among people.

“I think it’s the fact that it’s something different compared to the dining halls and the regular food places we have here at NIU,” Starling said.

Elsewhere at the event, Rustic Oven Woodfired Pizza owner Bob Miller was firing up the oven. Miller said he was satisfied with how the event went for his business.

“For our food truck, it went over great,” Miller said.

Miller said he believes most people enjoy the experience of partaking in what food trucks have to offer.

“Each year, it’s gotten busier and busier,” Miller said. “I think you can get a lot of quality food off of a food truck. … The quality that you’re getting is at least as good, if not better, than many restaurants.”

NIU student Vincent Syphommarath was sipping on an iced coffee dubbed the Malibu from OpenDoor Coffee.

“I thought it’d be really sweet, but it’s really kind of a mellow coffee [that’s] coconut-flavored,” Syphommarath said.

He said he was inspired after last

year to come back for another helping of Food Truck Wednesdays, and hoped to get something to eat.

“One of the things I wanted to get was the hot dogs from Big D’s,”

Syphommarath said. “I thought the name was interesting, Big D’s Hotdogs. … I don’t get hot dogs all the time. It’s kind of nice to get a Chicago-style hot dog.”

Mark Busch file photo

Northern Illinois University students, faculty and DeKalb residents gather April 10 during Food Truck Wednesday on Normal Road at NIU.

Riley Green to headline Sandwich Fair in September

Tickets go on sale July 16

By ERIC SCHELKOPF eschelkopf@shawmedia.com

Chart-topping country singer Riley Green has been named one of the headlining acts at the Sandwich Fair in September.

Green, known for platinum hits such as “There Was This Girl” and “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” is the Friday night headliner at the Sandwich Fair. Tickets to the Sept. 6 show will go on sale July 16.

The Sandwich Fair will run from Sept. 4 to 8 at the Sandwich Fairgrounds, 15730 Pratt Road, Sandwich.

Held yearly the Wednesday through Sunday after Labor Day since 1888, it is one of the oldest continuing county fairs in the state of Illinois. The fair was canceled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The fair was missed.

“We had great crowds in 2021 and 2022,” Sandwich Fair Board President Larry Dannewitz said. “Everybody seemed to really enjoy themselves.”

The fair usually attracts between 150,000 and 200,000 each year, he said. Not surprisingly, the weather plays a

big factor in attendance.

“Weather makes all the difference in the world,” Dannewitz said. “If it’s beautiful weather, they show up in droves, which is great. The more, the merrier.”

Last year, tickets for country pop singer Jordan Davis’ headlining show at the Sandwich Fair sold out a month before the show. The fact that the show sold out before the fair opened was a first for the fair.

Seating capacity is about

Eating Healthy on a Budget

Saturday, May 4th @ 11:00 AM

Photo provided by Red Light Management

Chart-topping country singer Riley Green has been named as one of the headlining acts at the 2024 Sandwich Fair in September.

The Sandwich Fair first started as an annual livestock show in DeKalb County.

A CLOSER LOOK

An intention to ‘really help’

Voluntary Action Center celebrates 50 years of community service in DeKalb County

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – A DeKalb County nonprofit that provides hot meals to the needy, nutrition programs for day cares and transportation for those without it, is turning 50 this year.

The Voluntary Action Center, 1606 Bethany Road in Sycamore, started in 1974 as a volunteer clearing house. After refining its focus and mission, the organization has morphed into one of the most tenured volunteer organizations in DeKalb County.

Chief Operating Officer Nate Kloster said it’s an honor to lead the organization as it completes its fifth decade in 2024.

He said first heard about the nonprofit about 20 years ago, while he was a Kishwaukee United Way board member.

“Since then I’ve had a real high respect for what this organization does,” Kloster said.

Voluntary Action Center, commonly referred to as VAC, has two main focuses: transportation and nutrition. It provides transit services for rural DeKalb County – everything outside of DeKalb, Sycamore and Cortland. The bus services often are geared toward residents older than 55 and those with disabilities.

The general public can use the service as well, Kloster said. The center’s support also can provide relief to caregivers.

“Our desire is to really help, and our focus is intentional about seniors and those with disabilities and folks that don’t have access to transportation, or need the services of a lift, or assistance getting on and off the vehicle. We do a lot of work with folks that go to dialysis, for example, every week. So we kind of relieve the family member from having to get them to the appointment,” Kloster said.

In 1975, VAC’s first year offering transportation services, the organization provided 7,111 rides, said Cami Loving, marketing and outreach manager.

stop then, however.

I think VAC provides a very, very needed service for this county.”

Neil VanOstrand, Voluntary Action Center volunteer

That service would expand into Sandwich three years later. The center’s other flagship program, Meals on Wheels – which bring hot meals directly to those without – began in 1987, she said. The expansion of services didn’t

After opening its transit facility in 1988 and kitchen in 1991 in Sycamore, VAC expanded its Meals on Wheels program into LaSalle, Bureau and Putnam counties in 2003. In 2010, transportation services were extended into Kendall County, Loving said.

Loving also said she appreciates VAC’s refined focus.

“I have worked in the nonprofit

world for several years now, and I think what really resonates for me when it comes to this nonprofit is the focus on the two programs. The focus on finding the money and volunteers, and putting forth the efforts in two programs without trying to muddy the waters with chasing money to try this, to see if it sticks to the wall type of thing.”

See VAC, page 7

Mark Busch

Volunteers Stephanie Barring (left) and Chris Sauter, both of DeKalb, load up their vehicle with a Meals on Wheels delivery to distribute on April 23 at the Voluntary Action Center in Sycamore. VAC is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Kishwaukee Concert Band to perform season finale concert May 5

NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – The Kishwaukee Concert Band will perform a concert to conclude its 22nd season.

The concert, directed by Cory Ellis, Dave Lehman and Deb Shofner, will be held at 3 p.m. May 5 at the Boutell Memorial Concert Hall in the Northern Illinois University Music Building, 550 Lucinda Ave., DeKalb.

The concert is free and handicapped-accessible. Parking will be

Continued from page 6

Neil VanOstrand, 71, does more than simply volunteer for VAC – he has been one of the center’s transportation drivers for the past seven years.

“I think VAC provides a very, very needed service for this county,” VanOstrand said.

VanOstrand said he retired early but was still itching to be productive, so he figured working for VAC would allow him to enjoy how he spends the day.

“That’s one thing I like, I can help people, I can help them, get them to the

available in lost 3, 4 and 14.

Music on the program will include:

“A Little Tango Music,” arranged by Adam Gorb, is a short melodies sequence inspired by the tango.

Elliot A. Del Borgo’s “Festa!” is an energetic and driving work that utilizes the symphonic band’s color and power in a three-part overture.

“Chorale Prelude: So Pure the Star” was created by Vincent Persichetti.

“Somewhere,” by Leonard Bernstein, is a “West Side Story” selection that imagines a world where doomed

doctor or the grocery store or someone we take to work. And then we take a lot of Kish kids back and forth – and I like driving,” VanOstrand said.

VanOstrand said he prides himself on getting his passengers to their destination safely, regardless of the weather, and he’s learned to take his time and not be in a hurry when snow is falling.

“On the snowstorms or the real bad days, I feel very happy that I got the person to their destination with no injuries or accidents, or anything like that. That’s what I try to pride myself on. I got people safely and nobody got hurt, and no accidents. I know that’s sounds kind of corny, but that’s what I like,” VanOstrand said.

lovers live in peace.

John Philip Sousa’s “The Thunderer” is one of his famous and favorite marches.

“America,” also arranged by Bernstein, is a striking rhythm from “West Side Story.”

“Fantasy on ‘Yankee Doodle,’” by Mark Williams, is a melody that develops a set of variations. “

Of Kindred Spirit,” arranged by Robert Sheldon, is an overture that places uplifting outer movements around an expressive beauty inner section.

Francis Scott Key’s “The Star Spangled Banner” is the country’s national anthem.

The band is supported by the DeKalb County Community Foundation and the Mary E. Stevens Concert and Lecture Fund.

The Kishwaukee Concert Band is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of volunteer players older than 18 who have played an instrument in the past.

For information, visit kishconcertband.org or the band’s Facebook page.

Volunteers Tom Webber (left) and Robert Walters load up their van with a Meals on Wheels delivery April 23 at the Voluntary Action Center in Sycamore.

Mark Busch

Residents help clean up Hopkins Park for Earth Day

By MARK BUSCH mbusch@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – Volunteers gathered April 22 at Hopkins Park in DeKalb to, as the saying goes, “Leave a place cleaner than you found it.”

The annual cleanup was inspired by Earth Day, a day meant to inspire action to help support the environ -

ment and natural world. The theme for 2024 Earth Day was “Planet vs. Plastics,” according to the official Earth Day website.

The cleanup event was sponsored by the DeKalb Park District. The twohour community service event saw volunteers remove trash and other debris from the park to help beautify and steward the land.

Photos by Mark Busch

ABOVE: Emma Asta of Downers Grove looks for trash as she walks April 22 during an Earth Day Clean Up event at Hopkins Park in DeKalb. LEFT: Aaron Schwab of DeKalb cleans trash and debris from a storm drain pipe April 22.

LOOKING BACK

1924 – 100 YEARS AGO

Work on the new cooling tower for the Illinois Power Company is moving along with leaps and bounds at this time. The framework for the foundation for the tower has been placed, leveled and is ready for the cement. It is expected that the cement will be poured tomorrow at the latest. The tower is going to be much larger than at first expected. It will be erected on a large concrete base about six feet high and nearly three feet thick, making it most substantial.

Home owners on West Lincoln Highway, those just west of the Normal bridge, have been unusually busy for several days, filling in and grading their lawns. With the aid of a Fordson tractor and C. B. Broughton, the work has been attended to with apparent ease over the old method of making a lawn.

People driving to town and not being able to park on the main street have found places to leave their machines on side streets. Several complaints have been heard about the matter and the residents near the highway are becoming tired of fixing the parking, only to have it trampled by careless people. At one home considerable money had been expended in spading the parking and planting grass seed after the damage done last year. Last evening a Ford, carrying a capacity load, stopped in front of the newly spaded spot and this morning it was found necessary to have the work done again.

After several weeks of preparation C. W. Gonterman today announces that he will have a formal opening of his jewelry and gift shop Saturday from ten o’clock in the morning until nine o’clock in the evening.

Starting a fire in the furnace, which did not seem to function as it should caused a fire scare among the residents in the home at 335 South First Street in DeKalb about 10:30 today. The fire department was called, but there was nothing for the men to do except give the property the once over for safety’s sake. Within ten minutes time both pieces of apparatus had returned to the station.

Following the installation of the underground wire service from beyond First street to the YD tower, the Western Union Telegraph company has now started to take down the overhead wires. Two men are stationed on the ground

near Fourth street and several are stationed on the poles along the route. The wires are released from the insulators and wound on the spool. It is reported that this task will take the employees of the company several days to complete, on account of the large number of the wire to be removed.

1949– 75 YEARS AGO

Jaywalkers in the city of DeKalb are becoming a nuisance and city authorities are now considering the matter of making the practice a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine for the first offense, and a fine and jail sentence for the second offense. Jaywalking has reached a point in this city where it is dangerous. Not only dangerous for the people who do it, but dangerous for auto drivers.

On Saturday, 40 woodcrafters of the high school left DeKalb by auto bus for Starved Rock. On the way they stopped in the grove near Shabbona to see the place where the famous Chief Shabbona once lived. At the village of Shabbona Grove, the old Indian burial ground was pointed out. Near there, also was seen the Husk cabin where Shabbona was often a visitor in early days. The party next stopped at Shabbona park, near Earlville. This region is now a state park and its beauty should make it a real tourist camping place of the first order.

After weeks of investigating and discussion, the property known as the Waterman block on the southeast corner

of State and Maple Street was sold to W. E. Owbridge, theatre manager of Sycamore. Several weeks ago, it was understood that the property was to be sold to Mr. Owbridge, but this rumor was soon followed by the announcement that there were several conflicts in the title that would have to be rectified before the sale could be made. The only lease in the building at the present time which extends over a long period is that held by Uno T. Anderson, who has a small room in the rear of the Abstract office and the Rogers and Smith store, which he uses as a tin shop.

1974 – 50 YEARS AGO

Construction in DeKalb, Sycamore and other communities of northern Illinois was halted today in the wake of a midnight walkout by members of the North Central Illinois Laborers District Council. The walkout covers heavy construction, highway projects and buildings in DeKalb, Winnebago, Ogle and Lee counties.

Legislation to restore passenger train service to DeKalb now has backers in both the state Senate and House of Representatives.

A fire started under the hood of a Sycamore school bus about 3:25 p.m. Friday at the corner of Exchange and California streets. The bus was filled with students from Central School and on its way to the high school. The students evacuated the bus and one

student reported the fire.

1999 – 25 YEARS AGO

Around the county Friday, thousands of students stayed home and some schools closed because of rumors and threats of violence, some of them tied to the 54th anniversary of Adolf Hitler’s suicide. Threats, warnings of rumors of bloodshed have swept communities across the country ever since the massacre at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colo. The attack was timed to coincide with Hitler’s birthday.

Time Warner Cable has begun field work on a technology upgrade that will expand its local cable system from 64 channels to a fiber-optic 84-channel system.

Although the month for recognizing Volunteer Workers has come to a close, the spirit of volunteering remains alive and well in the hearts and deeds of many. Indeed, this is the case for many of Opportunity House’s clients, who have established an extensive Volunteer Work Program as part of their Developmental Training Program.

When DeKalb police executed a search warrant at the Sigma Chi fraternity house Tuesday, they were looking for a stolen cordless phone, stereo printer, ash tray and sunglasses. Instead, they found 30 potted marijuana plants in the dumpster behind the house.

– Compiled by Sue Breese

Photo provided by DeKalb County History Center

DeKalb Agricultural Association trucks lined up in front of company headquarters at Fifth and Pine streets in DeKalb in 1948.

Sycamore hires consultant to look into industrial growth

City manager points to DeKalb’s recent industrial growth

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – A Chicago-based consulting firm recently was hired by Sycamore officials in an effort spur industrial growth in the city.

SB Friedman Development Advisors LLC, 70 W. Madison St., Chicago, will hold an in-person project kickoff meeting, tour Sycamore, and complete a myriad of other tasks in order to outline strategic actions to attract industrial development in the Sycamore, according to city documents.

The service is estimated to cost $62,920, according to city documents. Sycamore City Manager Michael Hall said he and Mayor Steve Braser have secured a $20,000 grant, with a 10% match requirement, from the DeKalb County Community Foundation to help fund the consulting service.

With the cost reduced by nearly a third, Hall said the city has room in the budget for the consulting firm because officials have been unable to fill an economic development position the city began budgeting $10,000 per month for, beginning this year.

“This is April, we have not filled that position, so that’s $40,000. So my suggestion is ... I’d really like to spend this, and have SB Friedman do the study, give us those outlines and summaries and really start targeting in on industry,” Hall said during the April 15 Sycamore City Council meeting, before the council unanimously approved his consideration for the consulting services.

Hall – who noted he has previously worked with SB Friedman while employed elsewhere – said the project will take an estimated 252 hours, or three months, to complete.

Third Ward Alderman Jeff Fischer asked why the city isn’t hiring a consultant to look into residential growth.

While Hall said he thinks the city needs to be open to diversifying its housing options, he said he believes industrial growth in Sycamore is primed because of the industrial growth in DeKalb in recent years. The city of DeKalb has seen significant

I think that industry makes more sense to focus on right now. I think we have some pretty good targeted areas that we might be able to bounce off of the city of DeKalb. For example, they have a lot of industry growing around [Interstate 88].”

geted areas that we might be able to bounce off of the city of DeKalb. For example, they have a lot of industry growing around [Interstate 88].”

At the end of Hall’s presentation, Sycamore 4th Ward Alderman Ben Bumpus said he was wondering why commercial growth won’t be the focus of the consulting service.

“I think you’re making a good case on why industrial, but wouldn’t it be great to find out, yeah, we’ve got some great opportunities, we just know it, on the commercial side,” Bumpus said.

industrial growth since 2020, concentrated heavily on the city’s south side near the Interstate 88 corridor. Mega corporations including online retail giant Amazon, food manufacturer Kraft Heinz and confectioner Ferrara Candy Co. have built facilities, bringing promises of hundreds of new jobs. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has invested $1 billion for a data center in DeKalb.

“I think that industry makes more sense to focus on right now,” Hall said. “I think we have some pretty good tar-

Hall said it can be difficult to target commercial growth because major commercial stores generally already are seeking opportunities to expand. Hall said he believes commercial companies can’t be as easily enticed as an industrial-focused company because business to business partnerships in the area may not mean as much to a commercial retailer.

“I think that you can entice industry better, and or you grow your current industry than you can say invite a commercial type of industry,” Hall said. “Usually big box [stores] are what people are targeting and big box, it’s not really growing very well. Restaurants are volatile. ... I think that industry is more capable.”

Michael Hall

Michael Hall, Sycamore city manager

DeKalb police chief says juvenile crime up, violent crime down

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – Juvenile crime was up while violent crime was down compared to the previous year, according to 2023 crime data recently released by the DeKalb Police Department.

In remarks to the City Council last week, Police Chief David Byrd shared the importance of such sentiments in his annual report on 2023 crime data and trends.

“Basically what we want to do is build a bridge,” Byrd said. “We’re working extremely close with our community activists – Breakroom and Friends, B.L.A.C. Inc, Opportunity DeKalb, the Belonging Council, the Park District.”

One such initiative that the police department launched last summer was Fun Jam in the Park, which is a youth-centered program aimed at building bridges between law enforcement authorities and community. The free and family-friendly jams bring games and other activities to various parks across the city.

Byrd touted the police department’s efforts to collaborate with the community over the past year, saying it’s already paid off.

City documents show violent crimes – including homicide, aggravated

assault/battery, criminal sexual assault and robbery – were down to 163 last year compared to 209 in 2022 and 263 in 2021.

Data is tracked through the National Incident Based Reporting System, which divides crimes into Group A and Group B. The following are reported crimes in Group A in 2023 compared to previous years, according to the DeKalb Police Department.

Group A are more violent crimes and may not always include an arrest, such as a confirmed shooting with a suspect

but no arrest. Group B crimes, such as disorderly conduct, DUI, trespassing, are considered less severe and also always include an arrest, according to the report.

The police department reported 25 shootings last year compared with 29 in 2022 and 48 in 2021. Byrd said he wanted to be clear a reported shooting doesn’t always mean someone was struck with gunfire.

DeKalb ended 2023 with four homicides, up from one reported in 2022 and

three in 2021, city documents show. Two homicides last May left the community reeling, as both victims were youth who’d been students at DeKalb High School, one a freshman and another a recent graduate.

The brutal slaying of a DeKalb High School freshman was among the reported homicides in 2023. May 4 will mark the one-year anniversary of Gracie Sasso-Cleveland’s killing. Prosecutors have alleged Timothy Doll, a man twice her age, suffocated her to death and then attempted to conceal the homicide. Doll’s case remains pending in DeKalb County courts as he faces an expected murder trial.

Sasso-Cleveland had been reported missing before police found her body.

Marlon King Jr., 19, was shot to death inside a DeKalb apartment building May 11, 2023. Prosecutors allege Jayden C. Hernandez, 19, and Carreon S. Scott, 20, both of DeKalb, fired the gunshots that killed King, according to court documents. Both men are charged with first degree murder and held without bail at DeKalb County Jail.

After Sasso-Cleveland’s body was found, Byrd at the time expressed anger, saying he urged the greater DeKalb community to steward their adolescents

See CRIME DATA REPORT, page 12

Megann Horstead

DeKalb Police Chief David Byrd speaks at the April 23 meeting of the DeKalb City Council.

LOCAL

Gardening season events set for May 6 and 7 in DeKalb DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host two events for patrons to prepare for gardening season.

The free events will be held at at 6 p.m. May 6 and 7 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman Meeting Room and lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.

The events are intended for adults.

Attendees can learn how to grow and maintain a vegetable garden at the first event. Peat pots and seeds will be

provided. The event will be led by Heather Edwards, a DeKalb County Community Gardens employee. Because of limited space and materials, the event is first-come, first-served.

The second event explore’s the basics and fundamentals of seed saving. The event will be led by Master Gardener Ren Stewart.

No registration is required.

For information, email leahh@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2112, or 815-756-9568, ext. 2100.

– Shaw Local News Network

• CRIME DATA REPORT

Continued from page 11

and keep better eyes on youth.

So far in 2024, the city has not reported any homicides.

The police chief said that to have any homicides is unacceptable for the city.

Byrd heralded the department’s use of license plate readers for thwarting a person wanted for homicide out of Aurora in November.

The agency in 2023 expanded its license plate reader program with additional locations to enhance public safety, city documents show. The police department intends to grow its supply of technological devices this year.

“The license plate reader gives us eyes where we don’t have eyes,” Byrd said.

First Ward Alderwoman Carolyn Zasada asked if the police department plans to increase programming this summer with Hopkins Pool set to be closed. The pool is expected to close for the season and undergo significant renovations with plans to reopen in 2025, according to the DeKalb Park District.

“Is the police department considering doing anything a little differently to increase engagement?” Zasada said. “I know you guys did a great job last summer, but the kids without things to do, I get nervous.”

Byrd said he may see room for added collaboration between the police department and the community.

“If we can come up with some other ideas, we will definitely do that,” Byrd said. “But you’re right. With the pool being closed, there are going to be a lot of idle minds and children wanting to find something to do. So we will do everything we can to add something to that.”

With development of the new Dr. Leroy A. Mitchell Elementary School going on in the city’s north side, Byrd said the police department sees opportunity rather than challenges.

“I think we’ll be able to engage more, to be honest with you, just because of that [new elementary school] building, alone,” Byrd said. “We’re hoping to see some positive effects from that.”

Byrd said he believes the community’s needs won’t be addressed solely by police.

“I’ve said it over and over again, we’re never going to police our way out of this,” Byrd said. “I’ve said it. I know that some people have issues with that. I will stand on that with all 10 toes because I’ve never seen that work in my 35 years in law enforcement. But what I have seen work is what we’re doing now which is the collaboration. We’re working with our landlords, we’re working with our community activists, we’re working with the school district.”

DeKalb Chamber celebrates Pizza Hut’s third anniversary

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated Pizza Hut’s third anniversary and welcomed the restaurant to the Chamber’s membership. Chamber staff, board and community members, and ambassadors celebrated with a ribbon-cutting April 4. Pizza Hut is located at 701 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb. For information, call 815-981-4449 or visit pizzahut.com.

Photo provided by the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce

DeKalb man pleads not guilty in fatal DUI crash

impaired,” Buick said.

The 44-year-old appeared alert and responsive to Buick throughout the hearing, wearing a black suit, light blue button-up shirt and striped blue tie, sporting a beard and what appeared to be tattoos lining his neck.

By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – Nathan P. Sweeney of DeKalb pleaded not guilty April 22 to charges that allege he drove under the influence of drugs and caused a March 28 crash in Waterman that killed DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil while she was on duty.

One family member of Musil – a 35-year-old mother of three and veteran who served in Afghanistan and was just five years into her career with the sheriff’s office – stared at Sweeney as Buick read his charges. The high-profile case and death of a deputy brought hundreds to DeKalb to mourn Musil last month.

officer who died in the performance of their duties.”

SAFE-T Act provisions cite Sweeney’s charges as detainable. Prosecutors, however, must provide compelling evidence to argue that no stipulations of release is sufficient enough to mitigate community risk.

Buick’s ruling determined that Sweeney’s release did pose a risk to the DeKalb County community. She affirmed, however, that rules she set for his release would mitigate that threat.

ing Sweeney, who’s alleged to have abused drugs not alcohol, would not be enough to deter him from getting behind the wheel again.

“Drug testing doesn’t lessen and cannot lessen the risks,” Schwertley said, arguing Sweeney’s alleged actions show a propensity for breaking the law.

Sweeney appeared in person April 22 in Circuit Court Judge Marcy Buick’s courtroom. He’s been free on release since April 8 and under strict conditions that prohibit him from driving and require regular drug testing. Prosecutors’ second bid to appeal for his detainment failed April 22 in front of a courtroom packed with Musil’s colleagues and family. Deputies lined the rows in the gallery flanked by DeKalb County Sheriff Andy Sullivan and State’s Attorney Rick Amato.

Although she denied prosecutors’ requests to reconsider her order that freed Sweeney from imprisonment at Ogle County Jail pending trial, Buick issued new pretrial stipulations that he must follow. Sweeney is to be outfitted with what’s known as a SCRAM device, meant to be worn on the wrist and monitor alcohol-intake in real time.

“The reason is to try to close all avenues for the defendant to become under the influence or intoxicated such that the defendant’s judgement is

Sweeney is charged with three counts of DUI of drugs causing death and one count of reckless homicide, all Class 2 felonies. If convicted, he could face between three to 14 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.

Through his defense lawyer John Kopp, Sweeney elected to put his fate in the hands of his peers during a jury trial.

“There’s no reason that the court should just flip flop its original decision,” Kopp said in argument to Buick to keep his client out of jail.

Buick again cited provisions that went into effect Sept. 18 from the Pretrial Fairness Act, known as the SAFE-T Act, which prohibits cash bail in Illinois. The new law also changed the way judges must determine a person’s eligibility for release from jail.

“This is not the penalty phase or the punishment phase after a finding of guilty,” Buick said.

She said judges across the state are still “grappling” with how to interpret the new law, and that judges must adhere to it regardless of public pressure or whether or not they agree. Buick said its her duty to treat all defendants fairly.

“All persons are eligible for release,” Buick said. “There is no exception ... not even for first-degree murder or DUI causing death, not even if that person was a law enforcement

In addition to the SCRAM wrist monitor, Sweeney also is prohibited from consuming marijuana in any form, Buick ordered.

Prosecutors have alleged that Sweeney got behind the wheel of a Kenworth truck knowing he was under the influence of drugs. Sweeney’s truck rear-ended Musil’s squad car about 10:30 p.m. March 28 in Waterman, authorities have said. Musil had been on duty parked on the side of the road, according to the Illinois State Police. She died from her injuries in the early morning of March 29.

Assistant state’s attorneys Scott Schwertley and Suzanne Collins of the DeKalb County State’s Attorney’s Office said they feared that drug test-

As part of her orders earlier this month, Buick has prohibited Sweeney, who worked as a commercial truck driver for a living, from driving. He surrendered his driver’s license to court officials April 9, according to court records. He’s also prohibited from taking any medicine or drugs other than what he’s been prescribed.

Preliminary lab test results from the Illinois State Police forensics lab show that Sweeney had three drugs in his system at the time of the March crash, according to DeKalb County court records filed April 5: fentanyl, cocaine and morphine. State police collected blood and urine samples from Sweeney through a search warrant that night, court records show.

According to court records, Sweeney has a prescription dating to 2020 for buprenorphine-naxolene, which Schwertley said is used to treat opioid dependency or addiction.

Nathan P. Sweeney, 44, of DeKalb

Stage Coach Players to host auditions for second half of 2024 season beginning May 3

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – Stage Coach Players has scheduled auditions for the second half of its 2024 season.

The auditions will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. May 3, 1 to 5 p.m. May 4 and 1 to 4 p.m. May 5 at First Lutheran Church, 324 N. Third St. in DeKalb.

The productions will run from mid-August through October. The plays include the comedy “The Foreigner,” the musical “Rent” and the comedy “Blithe Spirit.”

The auditions consist of cold readings from the scripts. Callbacks will be held by invitation only from 4 to 6 p.m. May 18.

“The Foreigner” director Gail Cannata is seeking five men and two women in their late teens to 70s. Southern and British accents will be

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Author Melissa Blake to visit DeKalb library May 2

DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host an event for patrons to meet author Melissa Blake.

The event will be held at 6:30 p.m. May 2 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Admission to the event is free.

Blake will discuss her book “Beautiful People: My Thirteen Truths About Disability.” The book includes Blake’s story, highlights #MyBestSelfie movement activists and calls the disabled community and allies to fight ableism.

No registration is required to attend. Blake has written pop culture, celebrity, and fashion pieces for The Washington Post, Glamour and Cosmopolitan. She was born with Freeman-Sheldon syndrome, a genetic condition that causes bodily muscle contractions. Blake’s physical appearance was attacked by internet trolls after she wrote a CNN Opinion political piece. She posted one selfie daily for a year after the trolls said to never post

required. For information, email gail.cannata@gmail.com.

“Rent” director Cortney Jo Newby will need a cast of 20 to 25 actors who are at least 17 years old. Actors of any ethnicity, gender or gender identity, orientation, ability, race, body type and vocal range can audition.

All cast members will have a vocal solo or lines and play multiple roles. Actors unable to audition must submit an email to discuss options by May 1. To discuss options, email scprent2024@gmail.com.

“Blithe Spirit” director Bernie Schuneman needs two men in their 40s and 50s and five women ages 20 to 65. For information, email schuney@yahoo.com.

Visit stagecoachplayers.com or the Stage Coach Players social media pages for more information.

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Kishwaukee College to host CTE open house May 1

MALTA – Kishwaukee College will host an open house for its Career and Technical Education programs.

The open house will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. May 1 in the college’s Caukin Building, 21193 Malta Road, Malta. The open house will allow prospective students the opportunity to view the college’s equipment and labs and network with instructors. The featured programs include office systems, welding, criminal justice, horticulture, business and marketing, truck driver training, automotive technology and diesel power technology. Attendees can park by the Caukin Building.

The CTE programs provide students with the training and skills necessary to fill in-demand roles in the local workforce. The programs also will offer students the opportunity to explore careers, gain real-world skills and establish college and career success options.

For information, visit kish.edu/cte. – Shaw Local News Network

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DeKalb High School string quartet to perform with Billy Joel tribute show May 11 at Egyptian

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – Members of the DeKalb High School’s Black Box Quartet will perform in May with a nationally touring Billy Joel tribute band, the Billy Nation Show, at the Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb, according to a news release.

The concert, set for 8 p.m. May 11 and the theater, 135 N. Second St., will include Billy Joel classics from the 1970s through the 1990s.

Ticket prices range from $35 to $65, plus fees, and can be purchased by phone at 815-758-1225, at the box office, or online at egyptiantheatre.org. The show is appropriate for all ages.

DeKalb High School seniors Keira Specht and Jonathan Chapen and juniors Maggie Martin and Christopher Thunder will join the band for the songs “Vienna,” “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant,” “Just the Way You Are” and “New York State of Mind,” according to the release.

Members also belong to prestigious area ensembles, including the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Northern Illinois University Orchestra.

The producers of Billy Nation approached DeKalb High School orchestra director Sheila Felder looking to collaborate. Show producers often reach out to local high school orchestras, making donations to their school music programs in exchange for student participation, according to the release.

About the performers

Keira Specht, 17, is a senior and has been playing the violin for eight years, according to the release. She started tak-

OBITUARIES

RICHARD THOMAS JOHNSON

Born: April 3, 1927 in Chicago, IL

Died: April 18, 2024 in Bonita Springs, FL

Richard Thomas Johnson, 97, of Bonita Springs, Florida, formerly of Sycamore, Illinois died April 18, 2024, in Bonita Springs, Florida. Richard (Dick) was born in Chicago, Illinois to Ralph Delmore Johnson and Margaret Alice Smith on April 3, 1927. He spent most of his childhood on the farm of his stepfather, Gordon E. Lovett, in Amboy, Illinois. He and his brother George also spent time in Missouri with their father Ralph. Dick graduated from Lee Center High

ing lessons at age 9. Specht also performs with the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra and the NIU Orchestra.

“I love playing in orchestra. It’s a different way of expressing yourself. You don’t have to use words,” Specht said in the release. “I just connect with it in a different way than everything else I’ve been exposed to. I really appreciate the

collaboration. It’s so much fun and special.”

After high school, Specht plans to continue to pursue her studies in music performance.

Maggie Martin, 16, is a junior and has been playing the violin for six years, starting in elementary school. Martin also performs with NIU’s Sinfonia.

“I’m an athlete, but music is this

other side of me where I can express myself and let out my emotions by channeling it through the violin,” Martin said in the release.

After high school, Martin plans to attend college to pursue a degree in engineering while continuing to play the violin.

Jonathan Chapen, 17, is a senior and has been playing the viola for seven years. He was encouraged to play music at an early age.

Chapen also performs with the Greater Rockford Barbershop Chorus.

“One of my favorite things about playing the viola is being a support role. I get nervous onstage, but I really enjoy playing an instrument that supports the other instruments,” Chapen said in the release. “Being onstage is exciting because it feels like all the preparation I’ve done is going toward something.”

After high school, Chapen plans to take a semester off before college. He plans to double major in computer science and music performance.

Christopher Thunder, 16, is a junior and has been playing the cello for six years. Encouraged by his mother, who teaches cello, Thunder became interested in the instrument in fifth grade. Thunder also performed with the pit orchestra for the school production of “Beauty and the Beast.”

Thunder enjoys the wide range of tones he can perform with the cello.

“The cello has a great low voice while also having a nice upper range without sounding too high,” he said in the release. “I really like the range.”

After high school, Thunder hopes to continue his studies in music and perform with a local orchestra.

School in 1945.

As a young man, Dick loved his work as a lineman and in his later years would talk about those workdays more than any. Wherever he traveled, he was always looking at the linework. After working several years as a lineman, Dick enjoyed working as a member of Local 364 IBEW. He retired in good standing with the union after completing his career at Northern Illinois University as a staff electrician.

Dick first married Mary Blackburn in 1950 at St. Patrick’s Church in Dixon, Illinois. They had two children, Janice (Jan) and Richard (Rick, RJ). He later married Bonnie Wallace McCord on September 5, 1986, at the First Congregational Church in DeKalb, Illinois. They have made their home in Bonita Springs, Florida for the past 35 years where Richard thoroughly enjoyed his time as a member of

the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the many weekend patrols his crew made with his boat. He and Bonnie took several cruises with their church friends in Bonita Springs. Later Dick traveled to Europe with his two children to visit his brother George’s grave at the American National Cemetery in Luxembourg.

Pvt. George D. Johnson lost his life at the Battle of the Bulge in January of 1945.

Dick is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie; his daughter Jan (Don) Benson and son Rick (Theresa) Johnson of Sycamore, IL; his stepchildren, Vicki (Roy) Smith of Sycamore, Terri (Scott) Johnson of Kingston, IL, Bonnie McCord of Cortland, IL, and Randy (Cindy) McCord of DeKalb, IL. He is also survived by his grandchildren Peter (Kristin) Benson, Joseph ( Kathleen) Benson, Timothy (Rebecca) Benson, Tabitha (Mike) Davis, Charles Johnson, Luke Johnson, and Mary

Johnson, and his step-grandchildren, Neil Smith, Christopher (Lindsy) Smith, Timothy (Alyssa) Smith, Chad (Lindsay) Batorski, Sarah Johnson, Jennifer (Bob) Heineman, Derek McCord, Stephanie (David) Stouffer, Ryan McCord, and Kyle McCord. Together Dick and Bonnie have 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by his half-brother, Anthony J. Lovett of Brookfield, IL.

Dick was predeceased by his parents, his brother, George D. Johnson, his sister, Mildred Johnson Schafman, and his stepson, Bruce McCord.

His family will honor Dick’s request that there be no funeral services. A celebration of his life will be held this summer in Sycamore, Illinois.

Photo provided by Andy Nagle

Members of the DeKalb High School Black Box Quartet are (from left) Keira Specht on the violin, Maggie Martin on the violin, Jonathan Chapen on the viola and Christopher Thunder on the cello. They will join a Billy Joel Tribute show May 11 at the Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb.

AMUSEMENTS

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

DEKALB COUNTYSYCAMORE, ILLINOIS

Nationstar Mortgage LLC

PLAINTIFF

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Vs Deanna Y. Griffiths; et al

DEFENDANTS

No 2023FC000108

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 02/22/2024, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on June 13, 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 06-31-402-066

Improved with Condo/Townhouse COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 572 South Peace Road Sycamore, IL 60178

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.

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

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 info rmation.

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 information: 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 14-23-06256. I3242994

Published in The MidWeek, May 1, 8, 15, 2024

CONDOMINIUMS

AS DELINEATED ON THE SURVEY OF THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PARCEL OF REAL ESTATE: PART OF THE SOUTH HALF OF SECTION 31, TOWNSHIP 41 NORTH, RANGE 5 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN IN DEKALB COUNTY, ILLINOIS, WHICH SURVEY IS ATTACHED AS EXHIBIT C TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM OWNERSHIP AND BY-LAWS, EASEMENTS, RESTRICTIONS AND COVENANTS FOR FOX BRIAR CONDOMINIUMS RECORDED AS DOCUMENT NO. 94014669 AS SUPPLEMENTED FROM TIME TO TIME TOGETHER WITH ITS UNDIVIDED PERCENTAGE INTER EST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS

PIN 06-31-402-066

Improved with Condo/Townhouse COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 572 South Peace Road Sycamore, IL 60178

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, ial levied

On-Air Talent / Audio Production Peru

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

Shaw Local Radio is searching for an experienced, engaging , relatable, community-foc us ed Full-Time On-Air Talent to complement the music in the morn in g on our Classic Hi ts 106 station.

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)

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 info rmation.

Our goa l is to super-serve the co mmunity through locally focused, loca lly prod uced programs from ou r LaSalle / Peru, IL stud ios. There will be some "format flexib ility" with your ability to fill in on any of our sister stations , Walls 102, Q Hit Music, Cla ssic Coun try WGLC, and 98.5 SPL. Proficiency in utilizing Ado be Aud itio n to cond uct client reco rding sessions , and pro duce creative commercia ls and on-air content is a must! We are actively involved in ou r commu nities, supp orti ng loca l service organ izatio ns and providing local news sp orts and progr amming content. You will be expected to represent ou r stations professiona lly and enthusiastically at public app ear ances or station events. As a creative passiona te broa dcaster, you will become a part of ou r winning team culture!

Ke y Responsibiliti es:

Ho st dai ly on -air s how Mond ay - Friday

Cond uct on- air interviews

Eng ag e with listeners on social media

Pr omote the station and its events

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 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.

Qualificatio ns and Skills:

At least 1 year of experience as an on-air radio persona lity

Pr oficiency in Adobe Audition

Skill in control board operation and remote broa dcasting

Knowledge of basic FCC rules and regula tions

Strong knowledge of mu sic and current events

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

Excellent communi cation and interpersonal skills

What you will receive in retu rn:

For information: 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 14-23-06256. I3242994

Published in The MidWeek, May 1, 8, 15, 2024

Con duct live remotes and ap pearances

Mainta in a positive and prof ession al attitu de Prod uce co mmercials for clients

Ability to speak in fron t of an aud ience and interact with listeners in a p ublic setting

Ability to work in dependently & as part of a team

Ability to work flexible hour s, including nights and weekends

You will get a supp orti ve work environment, co lla bor ating with some of the most talented colleagu es in the broad ca st industry, and managers who value yo ur work, time, and pers pective. In return for yo ur contribution s to our success, Shaw Media offers a comprehensive benefits package, in cluding medical, dental, vision, life, pa id time off, and 401(k) with company match.

Qualifie d candidate s, please sub mit a cover letter, along with a resume, air-che ck & pr odu ction sample: Onli ne: www.shawmedia.co m/careers or ma il to: S haw Media - Huma n Resources, a ttn : On-Air Talent, PO Box 250, Crystal Lake, IL 60039

Shaw Medi a is an Eq ual Employment Oppo rtunity and Drug-free Employer

Pre-employment backg ro und check, mo tor vehicle record, and drug screen requ ired

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNTYSYCAMORE, ILLINOIS Nationstar Mortgage LLC PLAINTIFF Vs Deanna Y. Griffiths; et al DEFENDANTS No 2023FC000108 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 02/22/2024 the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on June 13, 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: UNIT 1 IN BUILDING 11 OF FOX BRIAR CONDOMINIUMS AS DELINEATED ON THE SURVEY OF THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PARCEL OF REAL ESTATE: PART OF THE SOUTH HALF OF SECTION 31, TOWNSHIP 41 NORTH, RANGE 5 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN IN DEKALB COUNTY ILLINOIS, WHICH SURVEY IS ATTACHED AS EXHIBIT C TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM OWNERSHIP AND BY-LAWS, EASEMENTS, RESTRICTIONS AND COVENANTS FOR FOX BRIAR CONDOMINIUMS RECORDED AS DOCUMENT NO. 94014669 AS SUPPLEMENTED FROM TIME TO TIME TOGETHER WITH ITS UNDIVIDED PERCENTAGE INTER EST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS PIN 06-31-402-066 Improved with Condo/Townhouse COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 572 South Peace Road Sycamore, IL 60178 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

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 of th de it

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 co of the property. Prospe bidders are admonis check the Court file all info rmation.

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 info rmation.

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSES-

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 info rmation.

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 information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527,

tation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all info rmation.

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 information: 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 14-23-06256. I3242994

Published in The MidWeek, May 1, 8, 15, 2024

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)