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ON THE COVER

Roger and Shannon Finnan stand together. Roger Finnan has turned his grief into efforts to keep Shannon’s spirit alive, finding ways to honor and memorialize her. Recently, Finnan raised and donated $8,000 to Northwestern Medicine’s Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center. See story, page 6. Photo provided by Roger Finnan

CORRECTIONS

Accuracy is important to The Midweek and it wants to correct mistakes promptly. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411, or email readit@ midweeknews.com.

2 Aurora men charged with stealing 35 catalytic converters across 8 counties

Attorney General: Almost 2-year investigation across several agencies led to arrests

By BRENDA SCHORY bschory@shawmedia.com

KANE COUNTY – Two Aurora men were charged with catalytic converter thefts from more than 35 privately owned vehicles in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Will, DeKalb, Lake, McHenry and Winnebago counties, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced July 19 in a news release.

Raoul’s office charged Pedro Villegas-Mendoza, 22, and Octavio Goytia, 28, both of Aurora, with two felony counts of theft greater than $10,000 and one count of aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle, according to the release.

Villegas-Mendoza also was charged with 38 counts of possession of a stolen motor vehicle, and 38 counts of burglary. Goytia also was charged with 36 counts of possession of a stolen motor vehicle and 36 counts of burglary.

In documents filed with the DuPage County Circuit Court, Raoul alleges that from August 2021 through March 2022, Villegas-Mendoza and Goytia worked together to steal the catalytic converters.

A catalytic converter is a bulbous piece of metal from a vehicle’s exhaust system that filters fumes and reduces harmful car emissions. It uses elements of platinum, palladium and rhodium metals, which can be sold for profit.

Raoul said that Villegas-Mendoza and Goytia traveled across the eight counties – and in broad daylight – removed the catalytic converters by jacking up vehicles and using a saw to remove the converters.

PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzlesonpage14

Raoul’s office filed the charges after an almost two-year investigation in collaboration with several state’s attorneys and law enforcement agencies, according to the release.

Detectives from the Carol Stream and Wood Dale police departments in DuPage County led a multi-county investigation after local residents were victimized by these thefts.

The Aurora and Schaumburg police departments and the DuPage County state’s attorney’s office also assisted with the investigation.

“While a vehicle can still operate without a catalytic converter, removing it will release toxic gases and pollutants into the air,” Raoul said in the release. “These charges are the result of close collabora-

tion by my office with multiple state’s attorneys and law enforcement agencies to investigate thefts in eight Chicagoland counties. I am committed to ensuring these individuals are held accountable and ultimately to keeping our communities and environment safe.”

DuPage Circuit Judge Margaret O’Connell set bond for both Villegas-Mendoza and Goytia at $350,000. Their next court date is Aug. 14, also before O’Connell.

Deputy Chief John Brassil of Raoul’s Special Prosecutions Bureau will prosecute the case. The most serious charges both men face are the thefts greater than $10,000 and aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle, all three are Class 1 felonies punishable by up to four to 15 years in prison, if convicted.

WHERE IT’S AT

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced July 19 that two Aurora men were charged with catalytic converter thefts from more than 35 privately owned vehicles in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Will, DeKalb, Lake, McHenry and Winnebago counties.

Photos by Mark Busch – mbusch@shawmedia.com

ABOVE: Summer Falkos, 8, of Paw Paw, pets a rabbit held by Allie Peterson, 16, of Shabbona, at the Indian Creek High School FFA booth on July 15 at the Waterman Lions Summerfest and Antique Tractor and Truck Show at Waterman Lions Club Park. BELOW: Rowan Wessels, 2, of DeKalb, tries to get his dad Brandon to let him sit on a 1950 Oliver 88 Rowcrop Gas tractor on display.

Summer isn’t over yet

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce and the DeKalb Park District hosted the Family Fun Fest Thursday at Hopkins Park in DeKalb. The event featured games and activities for kids and the opportunity for adults to connect with local businesses.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

The Spoon Man performing July 27 at the DeKalb library

DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host two shows by musical interactive comedian The Spoon Man, Jim Cruise.

The shows will be at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. July 27 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St., according to a news release.

The free shows feature Cruise playing the spoons. The afternoon show is a repeat of the morning show. Patrons are encouraged to attend only one of the shows. No registration is required.

For information, email theresaw@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3350.

Youth outlook drop-ins set for Aug. 1 and 8 at DeKalb Library

DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host two youth outlook drop-ins for patrons to meet LGBTQ+ youth and talk about various topics.

The sessions will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Aug. 1 and 8 in the library’s Teen Room, 309 Oak St., according to a news release.

The drop-ins are free and intended for youth ages 12 to 18.

Participants can discuss political

awareness, self-esteem, identity, health relationships and physical and mental health. The sessions are available online. Snacks and activities will be provided.

Registration is encouraged. To register, email virtual@youth-outlook.org.

For information, email susang@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3400.

Vocalist Bethany Brewer to sing Aug. 1 with DeKalb Band

DeKALB – Vocalist and Wheaton College Conservatory of Music graduate Bethany Brewer will perform with the DeKalb Municipal Band at its next concert.

The free concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 1 in the Dee Palmer Bandshell at Hopkins Park, 1403 Sycamore Road, DeKalb, according to a news release.

Brewer will sing “Edelweiss” from “The Sound of Music,” “Wonderful Guy” from “South Pacific” and “It’s a Grand Night for Singing” from “State Fair.”

The music on the program includes “Burst of Flame,” “Invincible Eagle March” and “Sinatra.”

The concert also will feature piccoloist Cindi Eisenhower, who will play “Variations of Yankee Doodle.”

Brewer graduated from the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. She played the Second Witch in “Dido and Aeneas,” the Third Lady in “Die Zauberflöte,” and in solo recitals.

Brewer earned a master’s degree from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2020. She performed with CU Boulder’s Early Music Ensemble, the Boulder Bach Festival, as Filippyevna in “Eugene Onegin” with Ecklund Opera, and in recitals.

Brewer performed with Chicago’s Music of the Baroque and Cor Cantiamo ensembles. She is a section leader at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Glen Ellyn. Brewer also performed with the Miami Beach Classic Music Festival as Cherubino in “Le Nozze di Figaro.”

Sycamore Park District subject of next lecture in series

SYCAMORE – The August hybrid Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore series at the DeKalb County History Center will feature a Sycamore Park District panel discussion.

The panel will be held at noon Aug. 3 at the Sycamore Park District Community Center, 480 Airport Road, according to a news release.

Sycamore Park District Executive Director Jonelle Bailey will discuss the district’s history. Panelists will share their favorite memories, park district stories, and what the park district means to them. Attendees also can share their stories.

The Sycamore Park District serves the community’s recreational and wellness needs. The district manages community parks, neighborhood parks, woodlands, wetlands, athletic fields and natural areas. The district also offers a dog park, a splashpad, walking and cycling trails, an 18-hole golf course and a community center.

The Sycamore Park District panel is part of “Brown Bag Lunch/Local Lore,” a free lecture series offered in collaboration between the DeKalb County History Center and Ellwood House Museum. Registration is encouraged to attend this free event. To register, visit dekalbcountyhistory.org and scroll down to “Upcoming Events.”

Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore is funded in part by the Mary E. Stevens Concert and Lecture Fund. For information, call 815-895-5762 or visit dekalbcountyhistory.org.

Keeping her spirit alive

DeKalb widower donates to Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – It’s been three years since Roger Finnan was widowed after his wife died from cancer just one month short of her 50th birthday.

In the time since, Finnan, of DeKalb, has turned his grief into efforts to keep Shannon’s spirit alive, finding ways to honor and memorialize her throughout town. Recently, Finnan raised and donated $8,000 to Northwestern Medicine’s Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center, where Shannon received treatment for melanoma skin cancer before she died.

He said he didn’t initially plan on donating to the Kishwaukee Cancer Center in DeKalb. He started by wanting to memorialize where Shannon was often the happiest: River Heights Golf Course, 1020 Sharon Drive in DeKalb.

Shannon was an avid golfer and well known within the DeKalb Elks Lodge No. 765 community. Although Finnan’s memorial plans began with a bench, they soon evolved to a larger way to honor his wife. He held a golf outing earlier this year in her name, with more than 100 people showing up to celebrate Shannon’s life.

“Last year I donated a bench in her honor on the first hole of River Heights, and they finally got it installed this year. And so we had a golf outing for her, and 116 golfers showed up and 180 for dinner,” Finnan, 65, said.

Jerry Evans, exalted ruler of the DeKalb Elks for 2023, said it was natural for the local patriotic organization to give back to the Finnans by helping to facilitate the charitable golf outing.

“This is something that the Elks do, is we care. We are for veterans and children and cancer and for anything. We’re here to give, give back to the community,” Evans said.

Robin Franklin, secretary of Elks Lodge No. 765, said the charity golf outing will likely become an annual event, because it’s in memory of someone everyone in the organization knew

and appreciated.

“And I just want to say when Roger approached the Elks everyone was totally on board, because Shannon spent a lot of time down here and we got to know her really well,” Franklin said.

After paying for the expenses of the event, Finnan found he’d raised about $8,000. He knew he wanted to donate the money in honor of his wife to a local entity. He decided on the cancer center.

“My intention was to donate it locally. Not to sound mean or anything, but I’d hate to donate toward an organization where 80% of the money goes to suits,” Finnan said.

On July 12 at the DeKalb Elks Lodge, Michelle Scheri, a nurse man-

ager in the fusion department at Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center, accepted Finnan’s donation on behalf of the center.

Finnan said he’s been working with a representative from the Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center Foundation to establish how that money will be spent.

Scheri said the funds will likely be given to different patients via gift cards, allowing the patients to use the funds where they need them the most.

“Oh I think this’ll be a really huge benefit. And we made sure all of the nursing staff is aware too, so they can help identify patients that might have a greater need than others,” Scheri said. “I don’t think you know how expensive the cancer journey is until you’ve experienced it. There’s a lot of copays,

there’s a lot of … deductibles and those types of things that patients are burdened with. So I think this will be a really big benefit.”

Shannon received treatment for nine months but the total cost of her treatment was near $1.4 million, Finnan said.

Three years on, Roger said he doesn’t have any debt associated with his wife’s treatment. After living through what he called a nightmare watching her suffer from cancer, however, he’s taken action to support others in a similar situation.

“I always think about her, but just giving back to – I mean, being in the cancer center for nine months, to see all the people that are in there – it feels good to give back,” Finnan said.

Finnan

Camden Lazenby – clazenby@shawmedia.com

On July 12, Roger Finnan (right) and Jerry Evans (left) presented Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Cancer Center employee Michelle Scheri (middle) with an $8,000 check for the cancer center.

I always think about her, but just giving back to – I mean, being in the cancer center for nine months, to see all the people that are in there – it feels good to give back.” Roger

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

DeKalb County 4-H Fair begins Aug. 4 in Sandwich

SANDWICH – The DeKalb County 4-H program will host its 4-H Fair for 4-H members to exhibit their animal projects.

The fair will be held Aug. 4-6 at the Sandwich Fairgrounds, 1401 Suydam Road, according to a news release. Admission is free and open to the public.

The fair features sheep, goat, dairy, rabbit and swine shows. A food stand will be operated by the 4-H Federation and local 4-H clubs.

The DeKalb County 4-H Foundation will hold an Adult Showmanship Contest at 5:30 p.m Aug. 5. Attendees can show in swine, goats, beef or sheep. Nominations will be accepted for $10. Nominees can buy their way out for $20. The 4-H Barnyard Olympics will be held after the contest.

The 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction begins at 1 p.m. Aug. 6. There will also be a showmanship sweepstakes. A catered lunch will be provided by the DeKalb County 4-H Livestock Auction Committee. Early accommodation requests to participate in the fair are encouraged. To make a request, call 815-758-8194.

Early childhood town hall set for Aug. 8 in DeKalb

DeKALB – Region 16 of Birth to Five Illinois will host a town hall on early childhood education and care from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 8 in the lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room of the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St.

Admission is free.

The town hall will discuss the Regional Needs Assessment results. The assessment includes the needs, strengths and recommendations for Region 16 in DeKalb County.

A question-and-answer session will be held for families and providers. Registration is encouraged; visit docs.google. com/forms/d/e/.

For information, visit birthtofiveil.com/ region16.

Uke Day set for Aug. 13 at DeKalb’s Hopkins Park

DeKALB – The Wild Blue Ukulele Orchestra will host an event to celebrate the first Ukulele Day in DeKalb.

Uke Day will run from 1 to 5 p.m. Aug. 13 in the lower-level community room at

Hopkins Park, 1403 Sycamore Road, DeKalb, according to a news release.

The event will feature three ukulele workshops, a community strum and sing, a raffle and a swap and sell. A concert will be performed by the Wild Blue Ukulele Orchestra. Food will be provided.

Local music shop vendors also will be available.

Admission is $5. The first 40 attendees will receive a free lei.

For information, email ilukesoc@gmail. com.

DeKalb County Excellence in Education awards presented

SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County Community Foundation and DeKalb County Regional Office of Education recently named the winners of the annual Excellence in Education Awards.

The recipients were recognized during a ceremony June 28.

The awards recognize administrators, teachers and support staff who inspire students to learn and play active roles in school and communities.

The winners received an engraved clock, a $1,000 check and a copy of the book “Lifelong Learner.”

The event has recognized 120 educators and distributed $120,000 in awards in the past 24 years.

The 2023 Excellence in Education Award recipients include:

• Pre-Kindergarten through Fifth Grade Teacher: Audrey Cook, kindergarten teacher at Kingston Elementary.

• Sixth through Eighth Grade Teacher: Kathryn Michaels, eighth grade English and language arts teacher at Genoa-Kingston School District.

• Ninth through 12th Grade Teacher: Tracey Sanderson, agriculture teacher at Hinckley-Big Rock School District.

• Support Staff: Sue Graham, transportation director of the Sandwich School District.

• Administration: Jennifer Kern, principal at W.W. Woodbury Elementary. The awards are made possible by Yvonne Johnson, a retired Sycamore School District elementary school teacher. Johnson died in May. She received a special honor in recognition of her legacy during the ceremony. For information, visit dekalbccf.org/eie.

–ShawLocalNewsNetwork ShawLocal.com/

Jay R. Ebbesen Is Retiring

Six days a week, for 42 years, I went into the office because I wanted to. I loved my “job”. I loved being a part of your lives. THANK YOU to this community for the decades of loyalty and trust, for allowing me to care for your eyes, and for sharing stories with me about your family, your joys, and your hardships. I looked forward to seeing each one of you. In addition, I was blessed with helpful and caring staff that kept me going throughout the years.

One year ago, I had a health scare which required our full attention. It became clear that an early retirement was best for my family and me. As we come up for air, we are now healthy and doing well, enjoying our kids and their spouses, and 7 grandchildren.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It has been a great run, and I shall miss you all. See you around town!

Jay R. Ebbesen, O.D.

Dr.

DCCG lists August Grow Mobile food pantry dates

Road, DeKalb

DeKALB – The DeKalb County Community Gardens released a list of August 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’re sick.

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

Grow Mobile dates in August:

• 4 to 5 p.m. Aug. 1 at Hinckley First United Methodist Church, 801 N. Sycamore St., Hinckley

• 3:30 to 5 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Malta Historical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta

• 3 to 5 p.m. Aug. 3 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden

• 3 to 5 p.m. Aug. 8 at the Cortland Lions Club Shelter, 70 S. Llanos St., Cortland

• 3:30 to 5 p.m. Aug. 8 at Family Service Agency, 1325 Sycamore Road, DeKalb

• 11 a.m. to noon Aug. 10 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb

• 3 to 5 p.m. Aug. 15 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb

• 3:30 to 5 p.m. Aug. 17 at the Malta Historical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta

• 8:30 to 10 a.m. Aug. 19 at Kingston Friendship Center, 120 Main St., Kingston

• 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 22 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 340 W. Arnold Road, Sandwich

• 11 a.m. to noon Aug. 24 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb

$5.4M radium removal planned for Sycamore well with help from EPA grant

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – A $5.4 million plan was approved last week for radium removal for the city of Sycamore’s well.

The Sycamore City Council approved a $5.4 million loan agreement with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for the well project.

The city will be on the hook for $4.2 million because the loan includes $1,250,000 in principal forgiveness –the largest sum allowed by the state agency – according to city documents.

City Manager Michael Hall said the loan’s remaining balance will be repaid over a 30-year term with a reduced interest rate of 0.93%.

After giving the loan agreement the OK, the Sycamore City Council awarded a $4.7 million contract to Manusos General Contracting Inc., of Fox Lake, for the Well 7 radium removal project.

According to city documents the

contract comes with an additional $146,190 for contingencies set by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. No schedule, however, has been established for the project.

In March, the Sycamore City Council voted to increase the radium treatment and meter maintenance fees while restructuring the city’s water usage rate.

Matt Anderson, Sycamore Public Works Department director, said at the time the average home in the city would see about a $24 per year increase in their water bill.

On Monday, Anderson said the new loan from the state’s environmental protection agency wouldn’t necessitate further water bill increases because the loan was factored into the numbers used to formulate the new fee structure.

“When we did the water rates that just passed recently there was a place holder put into that overall budget to account for the principal interest payment,” Anderson said. “There is no direct increase related to this project.”

Shaw Local News Network

LOOKING BACK

1923 – 100 YEARS AGO

Good progress is being made on the addition to the DeKalb Township High School and although it will be some time before the new building is completed, the workers have so far advanced to the later stages of the interior work and decorating.

One of the busiest intersections in DeKalb, and one of the most dangerous for pedestrians and motorists alike, was Third and Lincoln Highway, due to a part of the highway being blocked on account of work being done by the telephone company. There was just enough room for two cars to pass on the south side of the clock last night and any driver that attempted to make a left or right hand turn was compelled to drive cautiously. Within a day or two it is expected the telephone company will complete its work on the highway and the street will again be opened.

There is one automobile driver in this community who evidently has not read the motor vehicle law, in more ways than one according to his actions in the city last night. The fellow, with two girls with him, came from the north on Fourth Street at about the same time the 9 o’clock street car arrived. The street car stopped and had it not been for the motorman in charge of the car, someone would have been injured. At the same time the driver violated this section of the Illinois Motor Vehicle law, he was driving through the business section of DeKalb with bright lights, making no pretense to look out for anyone but himself.

Construction men have already begun work on the second floor of the new Sawyer building which when completed will be an addition to the large building already built at Fifth and Lincoln Highway. The addition when completed will be two stories high. There is much building at present going on in DeKalb, and nearly every street has some new changes being made. Workmen on the Robert McCormick home on South Fourth Street are also making great progress.

People doing much riding on the DeKalb-Sycamore Interurban cars agree that since the company has repaired the roadbed, riding on the street car line has its pleasures. For some time before repairmen got the job, the rails were the cause of a good deal of hopping and

jumping by the car, which made or gave the riders the sensation almost of riding on a merry-go-round. The force has given attention to the entire route from DeKalb to Sycamore and through the county seat to the destination. Since this has been done a big change resulted in the comfort of the passengers and less trouble to the company employees.

1948 – 75 YEARS AGO

Mr. Kelley of Chicago received severe injuries to his left arm yesterday noon when a gun exploded while he was at the George Strand farm near Waterman. Kelley, who is a gun collector, had a German gun which was a combination rifle and shotgun. He had it repaired in Chicago and brought it with him when he came to the Strand farm yesterday for a visit. During the noon hour he had taken the gun about 60 yards from the home to try it out. He placed a .30 caliber cartridge in it and pulled the trigger. The shell was too large for the barrel and the gun exploded into pieces and his left forearm was badly mangled. He was given treatment by a Waterman doctor and then rushed to the St. Mary’s Hospital in DeKalb.

The J. Harold Townsends, rural DeKalb, arrived home last evening from Tacoma, Wash., where they were guests of the William J. Storeys, formerly of DeKalb, for the past three weeks. Those in DeKalb knowing the Storeys will be pleased to know that they are the parents of a 2-month-old daughter whom they have named Linda Susan.

Both dirt moving and sky cruising are being done at the DeKalb airport where

the construction of a north-south runway is being carried on. The dirt moving equipment moved several yards at a time.

Repairs are being made on the steps at the Sycamore library, weathering and heavy use over a period of years having finally taken their toll. The red sandstone is being carefully saved and will be used again.

Delays experienced by veterans in obtaining emergency hospitalization and many state and federal benefits are due many times to the inability of the veteran to locate his discharge papers. By having discharges recorded and obtaining copies, veterans prevent the original papers from being tied up in a processing operation at a time when such a delay might be costly. Veterans may also have their war records recorded at any Illinois Veterans Commission office.

1973 – 50 YEARS AGO

A trip to Starved Rock and Mathieson State Park culminated a three-week study of Illinois history by intermediates at Jefferson School in DeKalb. Using the state of Illinois as a theme, pupils studied the geographical and geological formation of the state, plants and animals of the immediate area and ways in which they are beneficial, and the anthropological and social aspects of early Illinois.

The cheerleading squad from Hiawatha High School, Kirkland, has just completed an intensive week of study and practice at the 20th annual Redbird

Cheerleader School at Illinois State University. They received the “spirit stick” and several “excellent” ribbons.

The first annual picnic of the Board of Supervisors of DeKalb County as they were under the old constitution was held July 25 in the shelter house of Russel Forest Preserve. It was a potluck dinner with ham, coffee, pop and arrangements prepared by the committee of Ivan Williams, Hugh McQueen and Lester Anderson. A summer shower did not dampen the social hour as the shelter house was most appropriate.

The bureaucracy works its wondrous ways. Today, DeKalb County was included in a presidential disaster declaration as a result of severe spring floods. The announcement left many people shrugging their shoulders. An employee of the office of Emergency Preparedness in Dixon, said yesterday he didn’t know why DeKalb was included, but he speculated that someone had put pressure on Sen. Adlai Stevenson who in turn was able to get DeKalb included on the list.

1998 – 25 YEARS AGO

As the DeKalb City Council increasingly uses e-mail to conduct business, the old methods of a phone call, handshake or a chat over some drinks have turned into keystrokes and the click of a mouse. Some aldermen say it’s easy to rely on e-mail too much, and the personal touch gets lost.

When Mayor Bessie Chronopoulos, talking a recent city council meeting, mentioned e-mail regarding an upcoming council retreat, she inadvertently opened up her e-mail records to the public. State law says that any document referenced at a public meeting is part of the public record.

Miss Illinois, Sycamore native Amanda Meadows has a sign the city commissioned in her honor at the intersection of Peace and Bethany roads.

Economic development officials in the northeast DeKalb County community of Genoa hope they will soon get what they’ve sought for a long time: a new grocery outlet for Genoa. However, details still must be worked out before a spade of dirt is turned on a proposed construction site.

–CompiledbySueBreese

Photo provided by DeKalb County History Center John Boardman’s Standard Station at the corner of First Street and Lincoln Highway in DeKalb is pictured in 1942 during a war materials drive during World War II.

Mark Busch – mbusch@shawmedia.com

Members of the Northern Illinois University Greek community listen as DeKalb City Manager Bill Nicklas speaks July 10 during the DeKalb City Council meeting. Nicklas recommended the council adopt a resolution to enter into a redevelopment agreement with the NIU Foundation for the development of the NIU Center for Greek Life at West Hillcrest Drive and Blackhawk Road.

DeKalb backs plans for NIU Center for Greek Life

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

– DeKalb city leaders are backing Northern Illinois University Foundation’s plans to redevelop the lot at the intersection of West Hillcrest Drive and Blackhawk Road after a separate proposal by DeKalb County Community Gardens was rescinded.

A decision authorizing an option to enter into a redevelopment agreement came in a 7-0 vote at the July 17 council meeting following extensive input between city leaders and members of the public. Third Ward Alderman Tracy Smith was absent.

NIU Foundation trustee Jeff Liesendahl heaped praise on city leaders for all they’ve done to revitalize the Annie Glidden North neighborhood to this point. He said he looks forward to seeing what more can be done to effect change on the city’s north side.

“I’m excited to be part of hopefully one small piece of that to support this Greek Life Center there,” Liesendahl said. “We hope this to be the cornerstone of the revitalization of that ‘L’ there. We are working very hard to get that done.”

City Manager Bill Nicklas urged the City Council for its support, saying the NIU Foundation deserves it.

“I think it’s important that we proceed and let our partners know that we’re in full support of their concept,” Nicklas said.

NIU Chief of Staff Matt Streb acknowledged that people may question why NIU has targeted this specific property. He said he wants the community to trust that the lot and its redevel-

opment is in good hands.

“There may be benefits of moving Greek row entirely out of the Annie Glidden neighborhood, but that is not in the best interest of the community,” Streb said. “I want to be clear we are committed to the revitalization of the Annie Glidden North neighborhood, and we are committed to this project. So much so, that it will be the largest privately funded project that we have had in our 128-year history only behind Barsema Hall. So much so, that we are getting ready to launch a $500 million campaign, and we have chosen to make the Greek Life Center a central part of that campaign.”

The city originally had solicited for interest in redeveloping the approximately 4.87-acre property in January only to receive two responses: one from the NIU Foundation to build the NIU Center for Greek Life, and another from DeKalb County Community Gardens to construct the Community Health Education and Food Center, according to city documents.

Discussion on this topic has drawn crowds to both public and town hall meetings dating back to April, when city leaders had the chance to hear presentations from both DCCG and NIU.

The NIU Foundation has proposed a plan described by city leaders as “only a concept” and “lacking in fine details” to build a 12,000- to 15,000-square-foot building dubbed the NIU Center for Greek Life on about two acres at West Hillcrest Drive and Blackhawk Road, according to city documents.

The facility would encompass space

See NIU CENTER, page 11

Continued from page 10

for fraternity and sorority life offices, a large event space, warming kitchen, lounge space, tutoring/counseling space, conference room, study zone space and a private courtyard garden.

DCCG had wanted to build a mixeduse facility on about 4.87 acres that would provide space for several uses, including greenhouses, a demonstration garden, garden center, food market, food hub, shared-use commercial kitchen, food court, gathering spaces, shared office space and multipurpose rooms.

DCCG founder Dan Kenney said the DCCG is opting out of its proposed efforts to develop the lot at West Hillcrest Drive and Blackhawk Road.

“Residents of the Annie Glidden North community deserve the very best that we – DeKalb County Community Gardens, NIU and the city of DeKalb –can offer,” Kenney said. “When we first proposed our plans for the CHEF Center on the ‘L’ lot of West Hillcrest [Drive] and Blackhawk [Road], we were excited at all the future opportunities that could happen on this property and pleased that everything we had planned was laid out well in the allotted community. As time went on, however, it became clear that our plans and specifically our major profit-generating resources would not fit with the desires of the

combined space for DCCG, the NIU Center for Greek Life and room for future development of the nearly 5-acre area.”

Kenney said DCCG is not quashing its plans to build the CHEF Center in DeKalb altogether.

“To honor our dual commitments to the community and our donors, DCCG began exploring additional options and alternative sites,” Kenney said.

According to city documents, DCCG has accepted an offer for the purchase of 8.47 acres of undeveloped property within city limits along Annie Glidden Road, just north of Arcadia and Ridge drives, to build its CHEF Center.

Kenney said the location has proven to be a better financial investment for DCCG and will allow for expansion and additional services.

University leaders have said their goal with the NIU Center for Greek Life is to serve as the focal point of student life and activity for Greek students to gather, meet, eat and socialize.

The facility also will serve as a space for students to prepare for exams, complete projects and engage in group discussions related to academics, according to city documents.

University leaders have said their intent is to use the NIU Center for Greek Life to help drive and maintain student membership in Greek Life.

The university has about 700 fraternity and sorority students currently, according to city documents.

University leaders have said some fraternities and sororities do not have a space to call their own, while others do.

The facility, once built, would provide all Greek Life students with space to gather, according to city documents.

Streb disputed the idea that Greek Life students are privileged, something often portrayed in TV, film and other media.

“Our Greek Life students look like are overall student body,” Streb said. “More than half of our Greek Life students are Pell [grant] eligible. More than half of our Greek Life students are students of colors. Roughly half of our Greek Life students are first generation. These are not students of privilege.”

Mayor Cohen Barnes, also an NIU alum, said the way the university has demonstrated its commitment to the Annie Glidden North community is wonderful to see.

“For me, to see Northern Illinois University leaning in so heavy on Greek row, on Greek Life and in Annie Glidden North, I couldn’t say enough as a Huskie how proud I am to continue to be a Huskie and just how excited I am to see this project come to fruition,” Barnes said.

Glenn Roby, a long-time member of the NIU Greek community and vice president of Opportunity DeKalb, said he is glad DCCG was able to find a more suitable location for its project. But he said he doesn’t want NIU to take the ownership and development of this lot lightly.

“Whatever happens here, especially to the students and staff, be impactful not only to the lives that you all have as members of the Greek community but more importantly to that neighborhood,” Roby said. “Use this as an opportunity should it be fully considered and fully developed to live your values. Be responsible for the oaths that you took when you became members of your individual organizations and leave a lasting impact and legacy of the community of DeKalb.”

The property at the intersection of Blackhawk and West Hillcrest Drive and its redevelopment plan will require additional council approvals in the future. City leaders also are expected to give consideration to a final survey plat, development agreement, and conceptual building and site plan approvals.

I’m excited to be part of hopefully one small piece of that to support this Greek Life Center there.”

Jeff Liesendahl, NIU Foundation trustee

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

DeKalb community commission accepting art program designs

DeKALB – The DeKalb Citizen’s Community Enhancement Commission is accepting designs for the utility box artwork and Paint-A-Plug programs.

The utility box program allows artists to create digital designs for vinyl wraps installed on utility boxes. Designs are being accepted for three downtown utility boxes.

A $150 incentive will be provided for the selected utility box designs. The incentives, wrap production, and installations are covered by a T-Mobile Hometown Grant.

The utility box program guidelines and submission information are available. The utility box designs are due Sept. 12. To apply, visit cityofdekalb.com/1474/ UtilityBox-Artwork.

The Paint-A-Plug program allows community members to paint fire hydrants. The first four approved artists will receive a $50 gift card for supplies and paint. The gift cards are provided by Helen’s Hair Designs and Spa.

The Paint-A-Plug program application

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and information is available. Applications will be accepted and approved on a rolling basis. The hydrants must be painted by Nov. 1. To apply, visit cityofdekalb. com/paintaplug.

Suter Company to host community blood drive July 29

SYCAMORE – The Suter Co. Inc. will host a community blood drive for the Versiti Blood Center of Illinois.

The company, 1015 Bethany Road, Sycamore, will hold the blood drive from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. July 29, according to a news release.

Donors will support communities in Illinois. Appointments are encouraged. To schedule an appointment, visit donate. illinois.versiti.org/donor/schedules/ drive_schedule.

The Suter Co. Inc. creates fresh and shelf-stable prepared food products.

Versiti is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve patient outcomes, advance the personalized medicine field, and strengthen community health.

–ShawLocalNewsNetwork

flush cooling system, Install new antifreeze, Check thermostat operation, Inspect hoses, clamps and water pump.

Pritzker launches $10M pre-apprenticeship program

Shaw Local News Network

Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity launched $10 million in funding for the third round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program meant to train statewide workers in the trades.

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline, and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades, according to a news release. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity process.

“Since we first launched the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program two years ago, hundreds of underrepresented Illinoisans have learned new skills and advanced their careers – further strengthening our world-class workforce that is as diverse as our great state,” said Pritzker in a news release. “As we continue to Rebuild Illinois –from roads and bridges to airports and transit systems – my administration is committed to ensuring that every resident, no matter their background, has the opportunity to take part in our bustling trades and construction industries. This $10 million in additional funding for the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program achieves exactly that – all while centering equity at every turn.”

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs, according to the release. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs can help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity to obtain employment in the construction trades.

“The opportunities provided by the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program are paramount to ensuring students are given the tools they need to thrive in the workforce,” DCEO Director Kristin Richards said. “We’ve seen a great amount of success from previous rounds of Illinois Works and look forward to assisting pre-apprentices in every corner of Illinois while encouraging participation from historically underrepresented communities through this latest round of funding.”

The latest round of funding will focus on awarding grants in geographic areas without pre-apprenticeship programs, while increasing the representation of underrepresented groups that are not served or are underserved by existing programs, including Asian Americans, veterans, and women, according to the news release. The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program will fund about 45 programs throughout the state including new and existing grantees, serving more than 1,800 residents.

“Illinois has the best workforce in the world – but we need to make sure that people from all backgrounds and all regions have access to the great careers that are in-demand right now,” said state Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin “When we invest in an equitable workforce, we close social and economic gaps that have existed for decades.”

Through Illinois Works, DCEO is expanding its statewide network of providers to recruit, prescreen, and provide pre-apprenticeship skills training, according to the news release. The program providers offer structured pathways and manage the program graduates’ transition from the pre-apprenticeship program to a full apprenticeship program in construction and building trades.

Participants of the program attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other supportive, barrier reduction services to help enter the construction industry, according to the news release. Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry aligned certifications which will prepare and qualify them to continue to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades.

Applications are open to all Economic Development Regions including in northern Illinois, with a focus on expanding capacity in the following areas:

• Northeast Region (Region 4) –DeKalb County, DuPage County, Kane County, Kankakee County, Kendall County, McHenry County, Suburban Cook County, Will County

• Northwest Region (Region 6) – La Salle County, Rock Island County, Whiteside County

Eligible applicants include nonprofit, community-based organizations, such as industry associations, chambers of commerce, local workforce areas, community colleges, technical

schools and school districts, according to the news release.

Experienced and new providers are encouraged to apply, along with existing Illinois Works grantees who propose to serve a different geographic area or Economic Development Region than they were originally contracted to serve. Applicants serving priority Economic Development Regions and underrepre-

sented populations as outlined in the NOFO will be granted extra points during the merit review process.

Qualified entities can apply for grants between $55,000 to $550,000, according to the news release. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. Aug. 30. To view the NOFO and apply for the grant, visit the DCEO website www.illinoisworknet.com. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to CEO. GrantHelp@illinois.gov for application assistance.

To help applicants prepare to apply for funding, DCEO will provide technical assistance in the form of webinars, regional meetings and FAQ. More information will be posted on the DCEO website.

Signed into law in 2019, the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act is designed to promote diversity, inclusion, and use of apprentices in state-funded capital projects, according to the release. The Act created three major programs: the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, the Illinois Works Apprenticeship Initiative and the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program. Together these three programs aim to create a talent pipeline of skilled and diverse candidates to fill new job opportunities created by the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan.

Gregory Shaver file photo – gshaver@shawmedia.com

Dan Rohman teaches his construction trades students how to measure out a board to build a stud wall on Aug. 30, 2022, during class at McHenry High School. The students in the class will build the tiny shops that will house incubator retail businesses on McHenry’s Riverwalk at Miller Point.

DeKalb declares July 11 Elijah Livingston Day

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – A DeKalb boy recently received a key to the city, a shopping spree and a whole day named in his honor.

DeKalb city leaders recently declared July 11 as Elijah Livingston Day to honor his perseverance as the newest Make-A-Wish recipient. National nonprofit Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children facing critical illnesses, according to its website.

“This young man is quite literally the example of what strength and courage looks like,” DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes said at a recent City Council meeting, speaking to Livingston, who appeared with his family. “When I see

someone like you setting the example that you are setting, I want you to personally know it’s impacting me on a substantial level. From the bottom of my heart, I can’t say enough about how cool it is to meet you face to face and how proud I am as a citizen of the city of DeKalb to now know you and to know

there are people like you out there in the world that can persevere and can show us what real strength looks like.”

Livingston’s wish was to get a shopping spree to buy items for video games and gear. On July 10, that spree was granted. When his wish fulfillment was announced, Livingston appeared emo-

tional with his mother, Shannon Gardner, as he stood to be recognized.

“Elijah, I’m a gamer, too, man,” Barnes said. “To be able to go out and buy a bunch of stuff so you can crush it in the online world, I think that’s pretty darn cool. So today is your day.”

Barnes also presented the boy with a key to the city, something the mayor said he only reserves for special occasions and considers sacred.

A proclamation on behalf of Barnes and the City Council was presented to Livingston to recognize him for being granted a wish by Make-A-Wish Illinois.

The mayor’s surprise announcement that he was giving Livingston a key to the city, makes for the third key to be presented in his tenure, Barnes said.

Mark Busch – mbusch@shawmedia.com

Seventh Ward Alderman John Walker hugs Elijah Livingston after Livingston learned during the July 10 DeKalb City Council meeting that his wish was granted by Make-A-Wish Illinois. Livingston also received a key to the city from Mayor Cohen Barnes.

From the bottom of my heart, I can’t say enough about how cool it is to meet you face to face and how proud I am as a citizen of the city of DeKalb to now know you and to know there are people like you out there in the world that can persevere and can show us what real strength looks like.”

Cohen Barnes, DeKalb mayor talking about Elijah Livingston

AI boosting quality of colonoscopies at Northwestern Medicine facilities

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – Artificial intelligence has helped physicians who perform colonoscopies achieve a 13% increase in the detection and removal of colorectal polyps, according to research shared by Northwestern Medicine at a Chicago-based conference in May.

Now, Medtronic GI Genius – the Food and Drug Administration-approved computer-aided detection system using artificial intelligence that has allowed physicians to more effectively screen patients for colon cancer – is going to be equipped at every endoscopy suite in Northwestern Medicine’s nine acute-care hospitals and four outpatient locations. Included are Northwestern Medicine’s Kishwaukee Hospital, McHenry hospital and Huntley hospital.

Dr. David Manuel, a gastroenterologist for Northwestern Medicine out of Sycamore, said doctors performing colonoscopies rely on white light to illuminate a patient’s innards. That light allows doctors to see through a small camera to look for polyps, and that process still will be used now that AI is on the scene.

“But there is now a processor that tries to identify abnormalities as it can using AI,” Manuel said. “It shows up basically as a box on the screen, and it’s up to the endoscopist to determine, ‘Hey, is this real or is this something that’s just a false alarm?’ ”

Because the procedure has effectively not changed, patients who receive a colonoscopy at Northwestern Medicine, in all likelihood, will not realize artificial intelligence is essentially acting as a second set of eyes, or a second opinion, for their procedure, Manuel said.

Colorectal polyp detection rates are important to gastroenterologists because it’s the best way to measure the quality of the colonoscopy exams administered to patients.

“The higher your adenoma detection rate, or your polyp rate, the higher the likelihood that you’re able to essentially prevent colon cancer,” Manuel said. “Because what we know about colon cancer is that these tumors start out as colon polyps. If we can find the polyps at an early stage [and] remove them, we can prevent colon cancer from developing down

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Tai Chi lessons begin Aug. 1 at DeKalb Library

DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will offer tai chi lessons on the first Tuesday of every month.

The next lesson will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 1 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St., according to a news release.

The lesson is free and intended for teens and adults.

Participants can learn about and practice tai chi. The lesson includes step-by-step instructions. It will be taught by Erica Bough, a certified tai chi instructor and fourth-degree martial arts black belt.

Because of limited space, the lesson is first come, first served.

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

CASA’s 50 Men Who Cook to be held Aug. 12

DeKALB – CASA of DeKalb County will host its annual 50 Men Who Can Cook event to help support its children’s advocacy work.

The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, at the Northern Illinois University Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center, 231 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb, according to a news release.

the road.

“So anything that can help us identify the polyps, that will, in turn, help us reduce the development of colon cancer.”

Over a six-month period, 21 gastroenterologists performed 4,820 colonoscopies as a part of a Northwestern Medicine study; nine of those medical professionals used the computer-aided detection software the majority of the time.

According to a news release, the gastroenterologists who used the AI software had significantly higher polyp detection and removal rates.

Adenomas, the most common type of colorectal polyp, were found and removed at a higher rate by physicians using the software than those who didn’t, and previous research has shown every 1% increase in the adenoma detection rate is associated with a 3% decrease in the risk of cancer within five years of a colonoscopy, according to the release.

“This means that computer-aided colonoscopies could reduce future colon cancer diagnoses by up to 39%,” said Dr. Rajesh Keswani, the director

of endoscopy for Northwestern Memorial Hospital and director of quality for the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Center. “The results could even be more dramatic in suburban or rural hospitals, where fewer screening colonoscopies are performed and there may be more variation in quality.”

Dr. John Pandolfino, chief of gastroenterology and hepatology at Northwestern Medicine, also leads the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Mathematics in Gastroenterology, a first-of-its-kind program that collaborates with engineers at the McCormick School of Engineering at Northwestern University to create novel medical services.

He said Northwestern Medicine’s investment in AI signifies the health care provider’s commitment to improving patient care.

“Our team is constantly developing new ways to be more accurate and efficient in the care we provide,” Pandolfino said. “It’s incredibly gratifying to know this technology will be available to patients in every Northwestern Medicine location where colonoscopies are performed.”

Attendees can try food prepared by more than 50 local men.

The event also includes a live auction, a raffle, cash bar, and entertainment.

Participants can vote for their favorite food in various categories including appetizers, side dishes, entrées, desserts and professional chefs.

CASA is accepting chef registrations. To register, visit casadekalb. org/participate-as-a-chef. CASA will also accept gift cards, experiences and items for the auction or raffle. To donate, email 50menwhocook@ casadekalb.org.

Event tickets cost $45 or $40 for two or more. Tickets also are available at the event for $45. To buy tickets, visit casadekalb.org/50menwhocook or the CASA office, 308 W. State St., Sycamore.

For information, visit casadekalb.org or email casa@casadekalb.org.

–ShawLocalNewsNetwork ShawLocal.com/games

David Toney for Shaw Local News Network Gastroenterologist Dr. David Manuel talks during an interview July 5 about how artificial intelligence will help detect cancer.

DeKalb named ‘Most Veteran Friendly City’

National veteran organization 40 & 8 bestows title

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – The national veteran organization Forty and Eight (40 & 8) has named the city of DeKalb the “Most Veteran Friendly City” for 2023-24.

The announcement, made by the Illinois’ chapter of the nonprofit veteran service organization, is meant to shine a spotlight on a city or town that has or is doing something significant for veterans or veteran families in that community and surrounding area, according to a news release. The initiative undertaken must be supportive of the veteran and active duty military community, according to the release.

“Our award committee was extremely impressed with the extensive number of veteran projects in the DeKalb area,” Illinois 40 & 8 Award Chairman Wallace “Wally” Hammond said in the release. “The various memorials and veteran acknowledgments really speak volumes about the attitude toward military veterans in the DeKalb community.”

In recent years, DeKalb saw the

installation of a new Veterans Memorial by the Elks lodge on Annie Glidden Road. The memorial pays tribute to local veterans from all branches of the U.S. military.

A 100-year-old clock downtown at First Street and Lincoln Highway also was restored in November 2021. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Clock, built in 1920 and rededicated again in

time for that years’ Veterans Day, also pays tribute to area service men and women.

Michael Embrey, U.S. Air Force veteran and coordinator for several of the new projects, said it’s wonderful to see the city getting the recognition it deserves.

“It has been exciting to see new memorials and update tributes to our

fellow veterans,” Embrey said in the release. “It is important to let the people, not only in the community but throughout the Midwest, know that DeKalb is a Veteran Friendly City and extends a welcome to all veterans and veteran families to come and visit. This is not about one person or one group, but a unified effort to support all veterans.”

While the award comes from the state 40 & 8 chapter, winners also will be submitted to the national 40 & 8 Award committee for consideration for the National Award for Veteran City of the Year, expected to be announced in early August.

Mayor Cohen Barnes, a U.S. Army veteran, said he is excited to tout the city’s new title.

The mayor plans to attend the State 40 & 8 Convention in Bloomington in mid-August to accept the award, according to the release.

“As the mayor of the city of DeKalb, I am extremely pleased with our community efforts to support our local veterans and veteran families” Barnes said in the release. “With the various veteran projects over the past three years, I am excited to let people know throughout the country that we are the State of Illinois’ Most Veteran Friendly City.”

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de

Mark Busch file photo – mbusch@shawmedia.com

A member of the Waterman American Legion Post 654, along with members of the DeKalb Post 66, march May 29 in the DeKalb Memorial Day parade.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

DCCF accepting fall grant applications

SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County Community Foundation is accepting applications for fall 2023 Community Needs Grants and Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants.

Nonprofit and public sector organizations are encouraged to apply before the Sept. 1, deadline.

Community Needs Grants support the charitable needs and efforts of local nonprofit and public sector organizations. Funding is made possible through ongoing donor generosity to Community Impact Funds at the foundation. Applicants requesting $20,000 or more must submit a Letter of Intent via the website by Aug. 1. Contact grants staff with questions or for assistance at grants@dekalbccf.org or 815-748-5383.

Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants support music education for nonprofit and public sector organizations and educational institutions throughout DeKalb County and the Chicago area. Funding comes from the Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund at the foundation. Contact Arts & Culture Consultant George Buck with questions or for assistance at

george@dekalbccf.org.

For more information, visit dekalbccf. org/grantprograms.

Michael Jackson tribute band headed to the Egyptian DeKALB – The Egyptian Theatre will present Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience at 8 p.m. Aug. 4.

Who’s Bad is the world’s longest-running Michael Jackson tribute band, according to a news release. The six-piece band combines dance routines, horns and rhythms with the vocals and choreography of frontmen Joseph Bell and Taalib York.

Who’s Bad has performed with artists such as Aretha Franklin, Backstreet Boys, the Four Tops, Boys II Men and Pitbull. Tickets cost $25 and can be purchased at the box office or by calling 815-7581225 or visiting egyptiantheatre.org.

The Egyptian Theatre, owned and operated by Preservation of Egyptian Theatre Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is located at 135 N. Second St. in DeKalb. For information, visit egyptiantheatre. org.

SM-CL04016555

SM-CL2075500

Photo provided by DeKalb County Community Foundation

The Kirkland Rec League used a 2022 community needs grant for baseball field repairs

Kish College to offer 7 fall short-term training programs

Shaw Local News Network

MALTA – Kishwaukee College’s Continuing Education department will offer seven short-term training programs during the fall 2023 semester.

The classes are offered in person, online and in hybrid formats, according to a news release.

The programs range from 11 to 20 weeks and allow students to start a career or build skills with additional training. Attendees need computer access and the internet for online programs. Some programs include an externship or a clinical component.

The fall short-term training programs include:

• Appliance Repair Technician: Sept. 11 through Dec. 6 in person. Appliance repair technicians are trained to assist clients with household appliance

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

Northern Illinois University to host Star Party Aug. 2

DeKALB – Northern Illinois University will host a Star Party to celebrate the Davis Hall Observatory’s reopening after it closed because of the pandemic.

installation, repairs and troubleshooting. In-person instruction will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Mondays at Kishwaukee College and 5:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays at Knodle’s Appliance Repair Services Inc.

• Dental Assistant: Aug. 28 through Nov. 18 online lecture and in-person practice. Dental assistants and health care professionals work with dentists and dental hygienists to provide corrective and preventive dental care and administrative support in dental offices. In-person practice will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at a local dental office.

• Pharmacy Technician: Aug. 28 through Dec. 9 online. Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists with dispensing prescription medication and various other duties in a pharmacy setting. Funding is available through the Workforce Innovation

The event will be held at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 2 at NIU’s LaTourette Hall, 202 Normal Road, DeKalb, according to a news release.

The party is free and open to the public.

and Opportunity Act.

• Phlebotomy Technician: Aug. 28 through Nov. 18 in person. Phlebotomists are health care technicians trained to collect, transport, handle and process blood and other specimens for laboratory analysis using venipuncture and micro-collection techniques. Instruction and in-person practice will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at Kishwaukee College. A clinical experience will be offered Oct. 31 through Nov. 18 at a local hospital.

• Real Estate Broker Pre-License: Sept. 5 through Nov. 16 online. Real estate brokers perform duties in real estate transactions, including marketing homes, establishing escrow accounts, and working to ensure fair and legal transactions.

• Sterile Processing Technician: Aug. 28

The event will feature space-themed trivia, games, refreshments and a presentation on the observatory’s history. The observatory will open for public viewing at 8 p.m. Attendees unable or unwilling to climb the

through Dec. 2 online. Sterile processing technicians provide support to health care facilities’ patient care services. Technicians decontaminate, clean, process, assemble, sterilize, store and distribute medical devices and supplies needed in patient care, especially during surgery.

• Veterinary Assistant: July 23 through Dec. 22 online lecture and in-person practice. Veterinary assistants are veterinary staff members trained to assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians with medical procedures on injured and sick animals. In-person lectures and practice will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays at Aston Animal Clinic in Ashton. A clinical experience will be offered Nov. 20 through Dec. 22 at a local animal hospital.

For information, visit kish.edu/ shortterm.

observatory’s stairs can use telescopes set up outside. Free parking is available at the NIU parking garage.

For information, email Observatory@ niu.edu.

Dr. Z has been in the area for 29 years 15 Minutes West of Somo nauk

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PART T IME Crys ta l Lake

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PUBLIC AUCTION

GENEVA SCHOOLS EXCESS INVENTORY CLOSE OUT AU CTION

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5TH 2023

St arting @ 9:30 am

301 McKinley Street, Ge neva IL 60134 (Maintenance buil ding)

Parking avail able @ th e Geneva High School

This auction will feature large q uan tit y and qual it y of excess inventory rang in g from cubicles, pa rt it io ns, desks, ta bles, chai rs & cabi nets Brand name shop t ool s like Grizzley, DeWalt & Bosch, sc roll saws, belt & spi ndl e sand ers, Unisaw w/ table, clamps, pl aner, some h and tools etc. Other specialty it ems will include wall pads, wood ca binets , work benches (metal & wood), la mi na ti ng mach ine, fo lding wi re shel ves on wheels, globes, a pup pet show, bal l rack, etc. Expect to find some surprises!

Terms: Cash, Good Check, Credit & Debit cards. Must ha ve prop er Phot o ID to register All Items selli ng to best and hi ghest bidder No prop erty remo ved until settled for prior to removing from pr operty. Not respons ible fo r items or ac ci dents once sold, all sales are fi nal

Geneva Sch ool District 304, OWNERS

For a more complete invent ory or general questions concerni ng the au ct ion cont act th e auctio neer he re in li sted or contact Scott Ney 630-330-2244

Au ction sale coor dina tor from the di stri ct Co mfort station avail abl e.

AUCTIONEER:

Ch ris We gen er 815-451-2820, Sand wich IL For pho tos & more details Go2wegen er auctions.com

PUBLIC ESTATE AUCTION

Sunday, July 30th, 20 23 9AM Start

14265 Barber Greene Rd. Sy camore, IL 60178

Two Au ct ion Rings!

5320 John Deere, Trucks, Motorcycle, Trailers, Safes, Firearms, Ammo, Contractor Tools & Equipment, Stihl Chai nsaws & More Onli ne Bi ddi ng Owner: The Estate of John Muel ler See website for fu ll co ntent &

REAL ESTATE AUCTION

In order to sett le the Esta te of Paula Buehler the fo llo wing real estate will be offered at auc ti on LOCATED @ 15100 RT 23

JUST 3.6 MILES SO UTH OF DEKALB, IL, ON RT 23

Saturday, August 19 12 NOON

This One Owner Ra nch Home was bui lt by the current owners and is in move- in cond it io n. The home Si ts on a 150ft x 240ft lot, al mo st 1 acre, th at is beauti fu ll y la ndsc aped an d maintain ed The home has 3 fu ll bedroo ms, 2 fu ll ba ths, full basement, Hard wo od fl oors, it s own well and sept ic, backyard cement pa tio , Large 2 car attach ed ga rage, bl ack- top dr iveway and large wood ed stor age shed wi th electric and cement floo r that woul d make an ideal shop , st orage or bonu s garag e. The h ouse will sell with ALL th e updated applia nces, Mi crowave, Dishwasher St ove, Wa sher and Dryer, which is located on the main flo or, Refrigerat or and St ove. Tax Parcel ID # 11-143-51- 005.

TALK TO YO UR LENDER NOW AND BE READY TO BID YOUR PRICE AT AU CTION. Property can be show n anytime by contacti ng Steve Alm burg at 815-739-3703

TERMS FO R RE AL ESTATE : $5,00 0.00 DO WN ON AUCTION DAY. BALANCE DUE SE PTEM BER 26, 2023

TI TLE COMPAN Y WILL CO LLECT AND HO LD DOWN PAYM EN T UNTIL CLOSIN G.

** GA RY LOTHSO N, At torn ey for Seller 815-756-1436

PROPERTY BEING OFFERED AS IS, WITH OUT ANY CONTIN GE NCIES TO FINA NCIN G, APPRAI SAL OR ANY OTHER TY PE OF CONTIN GENCIE S. SELLERS WILL PA Y FO R DEED PREPARA TION AND TITLE CO MM ITMENT

FO R SELLERS. ANNO UNCE ME NTS MADE DAY OF SALE

TAKE PRECE DE NCE O VER ALL OTHER.

ALMBURG AUCTIONEERING, INC. AU CTIONEERS, 815-739-3703

** AU CTIONE ERS NOT E: We will have a small pers ona l prope rt y aucti on starting at 10:30 a.m. at this same lo cation selling furnit ure, bedr oom sets, candlewi ck gl assware collection and ot her ho use hol d.

Estate of Pa ula Buehl er

MOTORCYCLES

815-739-3703

ESTATE/GA RAGE/MOV ING SALE

sunflower themes, lot's of teddy bears and bear themes, antiques, Watt Pottery, Pewter, Brass candlesticks, seasonal deco, Rowe Pottery, Leftwich Pottery, Lee Bortin Originals, Decoys, tins, artwork, just a lot of stuff left from moving and mom passing. Lot's and lot's of interesting collectibles and cool stuff. Running during North Aurora Days Citywide Sale.

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

Publisher's Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housin g Act which makes it il legal to advertise "any preference, li mitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handic ap, familial stat us or nati onal origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination. Familial stat us includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18 This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violat io n of the law. Ou r readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis

To complain of discrimination call HUD 1- 800-669-9777

Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275

Buying? Selling? Renting? Hiring?

To place an ad, call 833-584-NEWS

MidWeek Classified

Defendant 2022 FC 000116

NOTICE

PUBLIC NO TICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on May 25, 2023, the Sheriff of DeKalb County will at 1:00 PM on August 24, 2023, at the DeKalb County Co urthouse, at the DeKalb County Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Street, front door entrance, Sycamore IL 60178, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 103 E MEADOW DR, CORTLAND, IL 60112

Property Index No 09-20-254-013

The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $128,008.37.

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bi d by certified funds at the close of the auction; the balance, in certified funds, is due within twentyfour (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, 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.

Upon payment in full of the amount bi d, the purchaser wi ll receive a Certif icate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the cond it ion of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4) If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common inte rest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by 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.

For information, contact Plaintiff's attorney: CHAD LEWIS, ROBERTSON

IF YOU ARE THE MORT-

GAGOR (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, contact Plaintiff's attorney: CHAD LEWIS, ROBERTSON ANSCHUTZ SCHNEID CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC, 205 N. MICHIGAN SUITE 810, CHICAGO, IL, 60601, (561) 241-6901 Please refer to file number 22-080662.

E-Mail: ILMAIL@RASLG.COM

Case # 2022 FC 000116 I3225483

Published in The MidWeek, July 26, 2023 August 2, 9, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, FOR THE TWENTY THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

Plaintiff, -v.JORGE G ABONCE, ROSALBA ABONCE, ILLINOIS COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING BY AND THROUGH ITS AGENCY THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE

Defendant 2022 FC 000043 NOTICE OF SHERIFF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursua nt to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 16, 2023, the Sheriff of DeKalb County will at 1:00 PM on August 10, 2023, at the DeKalb County Courthouse, at the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office/Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Street main entrance door labeled B2, Sycamore, IL, 60178, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 703 TYLER ST, GENOA IL 60135 Property Index No 03-30-103-014

The real estate is improved with a si ngle family residence.

The judgment amount was $231,443.61. 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 Resident ial Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate 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. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser wi ll receive a Certif icate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United St ates, the

Plaintiff and in

IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser wi ll receive a Certif icate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United St ates, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allow able for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the cond it ion of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all info rmation. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4) If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common inte rest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMA IN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 151701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For information, contact Plaintiff's attorney: CHAD LEWIS, ROBERTSON ANSCHUTZ SCHNEID CRANE & PARTNERS PLLC 205 N. MICHIGAN SUITE 810, CHICAGO, IL, 60601, (561) 241-6901 Please refer to file number 22-020362.

E-Mail: ILMAIL@RASLG.COM

I3224446

(Published in The MidWeek July 12, 19, 26, 2023)

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE TWENTY-THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNTYSYCAMORE ILLINOIS

U.S. Bank Nati onal Association, not in its indivi dual capacity, but solely as Trustee of the NRZ Pass-Through Trust XVI-B Plaintiff, vs Thomas Morris, III, AKA

Thomas E. Morris, III; Celina Morris, AKA Celina G. Morris; Daniel VanErden Defendants.

Case No 2022FC000080

1221 State Street Dekalb, IL 60115

Judge Bradley J. Waller NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause on May 18, 2023, Andrew Sullivan will on August 24 2023 at the hour of 1:00PM at the DeKalb County Sheriff's

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause on May 18, 2023, Andrew Sullivan will on August 24, 2023, at the hour of 1:00PM at the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office, Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Street, Sycamore IL 60178, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: Commonly known as 1221 State Street, Dekalb IL 60115

Parcel Number(s): 08-23-276-028

The real estate is improved with a Single Family Residence.

Sale terms: Bidders must present, at the time of sale, a cashier's or certified check for 10% of the successful bid amount. The balance of the successful bi d shall be paid within 24 hours by similar funds The subject property 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. The property will NOT be open for inspection. If this property is a condominium unit the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, ot her than the mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)

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 call Plaintiff's Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski LLC One East Wacker, Suite 1250, Chicago, IL 60601. Phone number: 312-651-6700

Attorney file number: 22-017897.

Andrew K. Weiss MANL EY DEAS KOCHALSKI LLC

Attorneys for Plaintiff One East Wacker, Suite 1250 Chicago, IL 60601

Telephone: 312-651-6700

Fax: 614-220-5613

Attorney. No.: 6284233 Email: StateEFiling@ manleydeas.com I3224866

Published in The MidWeek, July 19, 26, 2023 August 2, 2023