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ON THE COVER
Ethan Wargo, 9, and his twin sister Claire wave to a passing motorist July 24 at the free compliments stand in front of their house in Sycamore. Ethan offers free compliments to anyone who stops by but he said tips are accepted and appreciated. See story, page 6.
Photo by Mark Busch
DeKalb School District 428 officials wade into roundabout conversation
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
Some DeKalb School District 428 officials last week waded into an ongoing debate related to a not-yet-finalized roundabout plan that city officials are still considering.
Officials with the city of DeKalb have previously debated whether to construct a roundabout at First Street and Sycamore Road, which is near Clinton Rosette Middle School.
Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez said the district has some reservations about the city’s plans involving safety.
“We did have concerns around the safety and security of our folks as they were crossing,” Garcia-Sanchez said. No decision has yet been made whether any roundabout will actually happen.
District officials this week discussed a series of recommendations that address their concerns for a potential roundabout near Clinton Rosette. They include the installation of a flashing light signal, reimbursement for crossing guards, and an additional barrier between the circle of the roundabout and the sidewalk.
District leaders said the city has eyed plans for a bus terminal on land between what could be a future site of the district’s Early learning Development Center and the high school at Normal and Dresser roads, which Garcia-Sanchez said the district has questions about.
“I’m going to probably have some safety concerns about that, too, as our students are walking to and from either home and school, or between the two buildings,” she said.
Board President Chris Boyes said he wants to support the city’s efforts. But he said he believes it’s important to put the district’s interests first.
“I don’t think any of us in this room are wanting to be combatative toward the city and what the city’s looking to do,” Boyes said. “None of us want to do that, but it is a matter of ‘Hey, this has to make sense for all parties involved.’ ”
The city of DeKalb is awaiting a response from DeKalb schools about its proposal, school officials said.
As of Aug. 7, City Manager Bill Nick-
las said he hadn’t received any letter from the district. He also said he was not aware of any ongoing discussions between the district and the city over the proposed roundabout.
Nicklas declined to provide further comment.
During the school board meeting, school officials said they wanted to ensure their thoughts on potential roundabout construction are conveyed in writing to the city.
District 428 board reached a consensus, taking a neutral position on the city’s proposed plans.
Board member Nick Atwood said he supports the district’s plans to take what he called a neutral position regarding potential roundabout construction.
is important to The MidWeek. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411 or email at readit@midweeknews.com.
Megann Horstead
DeKalb School District 428 President Chris Boyes (center) speaks Aug. 5 at the school board meeting.
Road closures announced for DeKalb during Corn Fest
Downtown festival runs from Aug. 22-24
Corn Fest returns to downtown DeKalb from Friday, Aug. 22, through Sunday, Aug. 24, bringing music, food and family fun to the heart of the city. In preparation, several streets and parking lots will close to accommodate the festival layout and carnival setup.
The carnival will be located in the Glidden, Ellwood and Haish city lots between Oak and Locust streets off Second and Third streets. Additional carnival attractions will be in the parking lots of Finch Funeral Home, DeKalb Public Library, and Frontier Communications. These lots will close at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, and reopen at 7 a.m. Monday, Aug. 25.
The following street and lot closures begin Thursday, Aug. 21:
• 10 a.m. – Palmer Court and Van Buer Plaza between Second and Third streets
• 3 p.m. – Lincoln Highway between First and Fourth streets
• 3 p.m. – Second Street from the railroad tracks north to Oak Street
• 3 p.m. – Third Street from the railroad tracks north to Oak Street
• 3 p.m. – Locust Street between First and Fourth streets
• 5 p.m. – Embrey Lot behind City Hall. A limited number of spaces will be reserved for Barb City Bagels customers during the festival, accessible only from First Street.
The city lots at Fourth and Grove streets and Second and Grove streets will remain open throughout the festival. Street parking will be available on Locust Street east of Fourth Street.
The City of DeKalb will post signage in advance of closures. Any vehicles parked in violation will be towed at the owner’s expense.
For more information, visit cornfest. com.
Thur sday, August 14th @ 7:00 p.m.
Yusunas Meeting Room, for all ag es
SUNDAY, SEPT. 28, 2025
Beginning & Ending in Downtown DeKalb, both routes take runners with on course entertainment through historical neighborhoods, along the Kishwaukee River, through NIU's campus, ending in Van Buer Plaza.
FREE BEER & Taste of DeKalb Event at the Finish Line!
Details still sparse about superintendent separation
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
On the same day Sycamore School District 427 officials formally cut the ribbon on the district’s new administration building, board President Michael DeVito said he couldn’t say much about why he voted to place the district’s top employee on paid leave.
On Aug. 1, DeVito and five other school board members voted for the district to enter into an amended contract with former District 427 Superintendent Steve Wilder. The separation is effective in March 2026, although Wilder is no longer working at the district, officials confirmed.
During a special board meeting, DeVito said Wilder and the school board had reached a mutual agreement to begin a transition in leadership. When asked by Shaw Local News Network why the district made that decision –which comes weeks before the start of the school year – DeVito referred to the original statement that the board made when the plan was approved.
“The why part – so, I have to refer you back to the statement from the board regarding our decision to mutually separate from Steve for the reason why,” DeVito said.
The board’s statement and the contract amendment can be found on the district’s website. The statement does not specifically say why the decision was made.
“All I can say is that the agreement was mutual,” Wilder said when reached Aug. 6.
Those documents show that Wilder agreed to be placed on paid administrative leave as of the signing of the separation agreement and to voluntarily resign from his employment as a licensed administrator with the district at the end of the business day March 31, 2026.
DeVito said he’s sharing as much as he can with the public about the decision.
“It’s important to know that the board prioritizes the needs of our students in our district, and we want to make sure that in this hard transition, we are being as transparent as we possibly can without compromising the integrity of our ability to negotiate effective agreements,” DeVito said. “That is just of paramount importance to the board.”
In a 6-0 vote, with Vice President
Christian Copple absent, the school board agreed to pay Wilder a prorated annual salary of $239,362 while he’s on leave, according to the agreement. The board also agreed not to terminate his contract for cause or permanent disability, and that Wilder can conduct professional work outside of the district once the agreement is executed, documents show.
In the separation document, Wilder and the district agreed that nothing in the document is an admission of liability or violation of any law, contract, policy or agreement by the district or Wilder, records show. Both parties also agreed to a “mutual nondisparagement clause,” which prohibits them from making negative or unfavorable statements, comments or references that imply liability, disparage the other party, their reputation or standing in the community, according to district documents.
Former Sycamore school board member Eric Jones, who lost a reelection campaign in April, said in a provided statement that he thinks Wilder’s separation from the district “leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.” Jones said he saw Wilder substitute teach and drive a school bus over the course of the five years he spent as the district’s superintendent.
“Steve’s leadership was always people-first, prioritizing the well-being of our students and staff above all else,” Jones wrote. “It is with deep sadness
David Toney for Shaw Local News Network
Sycamore School District 427 board president Michael DeVito speaks during a special school board meeting on Aug. 1.
7:00 - 8:30 TOO HYPE CREW 9:30 - 11:00 BACK TO THE 90’S
SUNDAY 8/24
12:00 - 1:30 MARK HARRISON 2:00 - 3:30 IN THE STIX ACOUSTIC 4:30 - 6:00 TAYLORVILLE A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT
No lemonade here
Sycamore child opens a compliment stand
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
A heartwarming take on an activity baked into the fabric of American summertime culture can be found on select days in a Sycamore neighborhood.
Ethan Wargo, 9, set up what he calls a compliment stand for a couple of days in July, and he’s already had dozens of “customers.”
Instead of receiving a cup of lemonade or psychiatric help in the mode of Peanuts’ Lucy, Wargo gave out compliments. He said he was inspired by characters in a “Dogman” novel – a spin-off from the children’s “Captain Underpants” novel series – who operated an
insult stand.
“I was like, ‘Hey, something seems fishy about that. I think I can make a stand out of that. No, no, no, not an insult stand, maybe a compliment stand,’ ” Wargo said.
Wargo isn’t alone in the roadside stand business in his neighborhood. His twin sister, Claire Wargo, has been his biggest competitor and help this summer. She operated her own stand selling her artwork.
“I thought it was a good way to show people how I do my art and, honestly, it was just fun making them,” Claire said. “I like to draw animals a lot, but I’m not
See COMPLIMENT STAND, page 7
Mark Busch photos
Ethan Wargo, 9, and his twin sister, Claire, pose July 24 at the free compliment stand in front of their house in Sycamore. Ethan offers free compliments to anyone who stops by, but he said tips are accepted and appreciated.
Ethan Wargo, 9, gets a hand from his twin sister Claire on July 24 setting up his free compliment stand in front of their house in Sycamore. Ethan offers free compliments to anyone who stops by but he said tips are accepted and appreciated.
Continued from page 6
very good at drawing humans.”
One of Ethan Wargo’s customers has stopped by the stand four times, he said. Although the service is free, he’s still making a small profit from the activity thanks to generous tippers.
His main focus this summer has been to relax and have fun, but he and his sister set a goal they’ve already managed to reach: After numerous days of working their roadside stands, they saved enough money to buy a mini fridge.
“We just ordered it this morning,” Ethan said. “We paid it off. And then it was pretty big, and it was pretty cool. It had like those LED lights you see inside a mini fridge, and it had one of those clear doors. And you could literally control the temperature.”
Brandon Wargo, Ethan’s father, said his children set up the stands on their own accord.
“I was like, ‘This is super cute,’ ”
Brandon Wargo said. “Them setting up wasn’t new, just this was a very unique idea. It’s kind of heartwarming, that’s kind of why I think it took off. Everybody was just like, ‘We’re all
Brandon Wargo, father of Ethan and Claire Wargo
divided right now.’ This was a feelgood moment.”
Asked what he thinks of his children, Brandon Wargo said he’s sought to teach them how to understand their emotions as well as the emotions of other people.
“Something that we always try to teach is emotional intelligence, and it’s great to see that that’s coming through,” Brandon Wargo said. “Obviously, book learning, being book smart, is important, but being able to handle your own emotions and deal with other people is what drives success in life, I believe.”
Ethan echoed his father’s sentiments about communication skills.
“No matter what, you can have a good life, but if you want people to like you and you want to have an even better life, ... you have to have good social knowledge,” Ethan Wargo said.
Trade Partners
Barb City Steel Corporation
C.E.S. Inc.
CGMT
City of DeKalb
Complete Fence
DeKalb Chamber of Commerce
DeKalb County History Center
DeKalb Mechanical
DeVooght House Movers
Finney’s Electric
GreenSheen
Horst Builders
JG Carpentery
Landmark Contractors, Inc.
Mortensen
O’Donnell Crane Services
Quality Plumbing and Maintenance
Royer Asphalt
Sharp Architects Inc.
Sipe & Sons Dumpsters
Sycamore Chamber of Commerce
Thiesen Roofing & Siding Co.
Wagner Excavating
Major Financial Partners
Ideal Industries
Hy-Vee
Lori Brown- Sweet Life Garden Group, Inc.
Manny Pena- American Family Insurance
The Starbucks Foundation
Notable Volunteers
Abigail Heslau
Allen Family
Bob Gallo
Chuck Vanourek
Dave Dunning
John Horst
Keith Garstecki
Kevin Sargent
Mark Smudde
Phyllis Horst
Randy Pitt
Robert Hoffman
Sheri Kosmos
Tom Steele
308 W. State Street, Suite 302
Sycamore, IL 60178 (815) 991-5341
hfhdekalbcounty@gmail.com www.h4hdcil.com
LOOKING BACK
1925 – 100 YEARS AGO
No added progress can be made in the hotel proposition until the plans and specifications for the new building are completed, a member of the committee stated today. An engineer has been in this city making a survey of the ground that will be used as the site for the hotel annex, and also securing the specifications of the present hotel building, which will be remodeled. Until the plans for the annex are completed, arrangements in this city will be at a standstill. It is expected that another month will pass before the bond issue will be arranged.
Within a short time, the work of cutting the curbing at North First and Pine Streets will be completed, as the city workmen are engaged on the task at the present time. The work, when completed, will be a decided improvement and autoists who use the two streets to a great extent will be benefited. In cutting down the curbing at the street intersections a wider street is made, and autoists will find it much easier to make the turn. The curbing at the intersection of North First Street and Augusta Avenue was cut down last fall.
Several people standing near the Fourth Street railroad crossing yesterday witnessed an excursion trip being taken by a group of “bums.” The train, not a very long one, had 16 “hobos” as passengers. There may have been more on the train, but those making the count did not see more than 16. It is thought that this is the largest number seen on one freight train in a long time. The train was headed west, and the bums were no doubt on their way to the harvest fields and mining camps.
High automobile numbers, the source of much amusement for many in this city who take a keen interest in recording the highest numerals seen, continue to pour into this city. Yesterday, a Ford coupe was seen to have the license number 1-011499. Fred Belk, who has found many of the high numbers seen this year, a few days ago reported seeing a number above 1,040,000 in Rochelle. He has seen many of the high numbers and is now searching for one above the 1,050,000 mark.
1950 – 75 YEARS AGO
Registration for the firearms safety school being sponsored by the DeKalb police department are continuing to come in and over 30 had enrolled by this morning. Instruction on the proper use of shotguns of all gauges and .22 rifles will be given by an agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation at the range of the DeKalb police. Enrollments are still being accepted at the DeKalb police station. There will be two groups, one for those 13 to 17 years of age and younger boys who have written consent of their parents, and the other for those over 17 years of age.
Announcement has been made that the Dearth Brothers restaurant, 124 South Fourth Street, has been taken over by Mrs. Burdett and Mrs. Liddick. For the past 31 years the restaurant has been operated by Joe and Frank Dearth.
Richmond, Va. – “Where were you on June 31” Judge Carleton Jewett asked Rose Mickens, appearing in police court 16 days late to answer a drunkenness charge. “Couldn’t find my way here.” “How did you find your way today?” “I was brought here in the wagon, that’s why.” “Case dismissed,” said the Judge.
Dorothy Kamenshek, star first sacker for the Rockford, Ill., Peaches, is being eyed by the officials of the St. Lauderdale club in the Class B Florida Internation league.
Ralph Coultrip, Somonauk funeral director for 16 years, has purchased an interest in the Kebil Funeral Home in Sycamore, C. V. Kebil, owner of the business, announced today. Owner of the funeral business since 1926, Mr. Kebil has obtained the service of Mr. Coultrip to continue providing funeral and ambulance service to Sycamore as he approaches retirement age.
Mr. and Mrs. Oran Merritt and sons, Oran and Tommy and Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Merritt will leave tonight for a week’s vacation at Lost Lake, Wisc.
For the past several days, material and equipment have been arriving at the site of the city well, which will be located at Lucinda Avenue and Russell Road in DeKalb. Construction of the new well, approximately 1,300 feet deep, was authorized by the DeKalb City Council as a part of the waterworks improvement project.
1975 – 50 YEARS AGO
The fragrant aroma of boiling sweet corn and smelted butter is expected to attract an estimated 10,000 persons throughout the upper Midwest to the annual corn boil Saturday in downtown DeKalb. From 14 to 20 tons of Del Monte sweet corn will be quick boiled in tanks fed with live steam generated by a vintage steam engine. The process produces a taste considered
unexcelled by the majority of persons attending previous corn boils.
The bull was flying in Kirkland Tuesday. High winds about 2:50 a.m. brought down a fiberglass bull that had been atop the Kirkland Meats Inc. building. The bull is 4 feet high by 6 feet long. Winds were so strong, a plant spokesman said, that the angle iron that anchored the bull to the building was bent.
A $16,150 appropriation to the DeKalb Learning exchange was approved by the DeKalb city council Monday night. The money will come from city federal revenue sharing funds.
Chicago and North Western Railroad workmen this morning began track repairs at the Fourth Street and Lincoln Highway crossing. They will be leveling the north railbed. Traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction most of the week.
2000 – 25 YEARS AGO
Two city residents will do their part to advise Lt. Gov. Corinne Wood on ethnic issues. Oscar and Sally Forsman have been selected as two of nearly 100 people from more than 50 ethnic and minority groups to serve on Wood’s Ethnic Advisory Council. The council was established in April to boost the role Illinois’ ethnic and minority groups have in local government.
Bridge21, America’s largest trainer for accounting software, has announced the Association of Guardian Services to its team of Business Solution Providers.
Bridge21 is the first national brand name of computer consultants among accountants. It supports more than 150 firms nationwide.
In an effort to educate members of the Park District Board about their options for preserving a 4-acre plot of wooded land near Hopkins Park, the Board executive director led a walking tour of the site. Through use of the power of eminent domain, the land was condemned by the Park District on July 23. It is part of a 6-acre plot owned by BMH Development, which would like to build townhouses on the site.
– Compiled by Sue Breese
Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives
The Haish Memorial Library in DeKalb is seen looking northeast from Third and Oak streets around the time of the building’s dedication in 1931.
FAQ about Afib
The World Health Organization reports that cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death across the globe. Various diseases are characterized as CVDs, which are disorders of the heart and blood vessels.
Heart attack and stroke are two well-known CVDs, but there are myriad additional threats to cardiovascular health, including atrial fibrillation, which is often referred to as “Afib”. Television viewers accustomed to seeing advertisements for Afib medications might recognize the name of the condition but still come away with questions about what it is, its risk factors and other details.
What is Afib?
The American Heart Association notes atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia. When a person has Afib, the heart does not contract and relax to a regular beat. Instead, the upper chambers of the heart, also known as the atria, beat irregularly. When that occurs, an insufficient amount of blood is being pumped out of the atria, which causes the blood to pool in those chambers. The AHA notes pooled blood can clot, which in turn can cause blood to be pumped out of the heart to the brain. When that happens, it blocks the blood supply to the brain, and that can ultimately cause a stroke.
What does Afib feel like?
The AHA notes that patients who have Afib have described their experiences as feeling like their heart is banging against the wall of their chest and feeling as though their heart is beating so fast they are gasping for air. However, it’s important to note that some reported no symptoms prior to an Afib diagnosis.
What are the risk factors for Afib?
The AHA reports that anyone can develop Afib, but there are various risk factors that can increase the chances someone receives an Afib diagnosis.
• Age: Risk for Afib increases with age. Though instances are rare, children can be diagnosed with Afib.
• High blood pressure: Anyone with long-term, untreated high blood pressure is at elevated risk for Afib.
• Heart disease: Heart disease increases a person’s risk for Afib. Various heart conditions that fall under the heart disease umbrella, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and coronary artery disease, increase risk for Afib.
• Lifestyle choices: An assortment of lifestyle choices, including some that might surprise people, can increase Afib risk. Smoking and drinking alcohol may increase Afib risk, but so can competing in sports at an elite level. But that shouldn’t deter people from physical activity, as a sedentary lifestyle is another risk factor for Afib.
How is Afib treated?
The AHA notes treatment for Afib is typically characterized by shared decision-making, which involves patients and their physicians making treatment decisions together. Treatment ultimately may incorporate medication, lifestyle changes and/or medical procedures. Understanding Afib can be an important first step toward improving cardiovascular health.
AND
(Enter blue door on the left side of the building) TUESDAYS | WEDNESDAYS | THURSDAYS
10AM - 2PM
The Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb is accepting pre-applications for the Low Income Public Housing Program from applicants who are income eligible and have
(2) or more local preferences. Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/ or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households who are income eligible and whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62
and
(2) or
Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households who are income eligible and whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62 or older) and/or households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member has a verifiable Disability.
• Accommodations for independent living seniors, couples or person with disabilities
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• Friendly On-site Management
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•24 Hour Maintenance Service
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•24 Hour Maintenance Service For more information, please call 815-758-2692, or applications are available online at www.dekcohousing.com
For more information, please call 815-758-2692, or applications are available online at www.dekcohousing.com
For more information, please call 815-758-2692, or applications are available online at www.dekcohousing.com
For more information, please call 815-758-2692, or applications are available online at www.dekcohousing.com
Illinois AG announces operation to stop ‘intrusive and illegal’ robocalls
By FELIX SARVER fsarver@shawmedia.com
Illinois is joining a multi-state effort to crack down on “intrusive and illegal” robocalls nationwide.
On Aug. 7, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced the launch of Operation Robocall Roundup, a multistate effort by the Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force.
More than 50 attorneys general nationwide joined forces to create the task force.
The task force investigates and takes legal action against companies “responsible for significant volumes of illegal and fraudulent robocall traffic routed into and across the United States,” according to the task force’s website.
The announcement of Operation Robocall Roundup marks the latest step taken in the task force’s efforts to “address intrusive and illegal robocalls that plague Illinoisans,” Raoul said.
“I will continue to work closely with my fellow attorneys general and the [Federal Communications Commission] to protect Illinois consumers and ensure all telecom companies play by the rules,” Raoul said.
The task force sent warning letters to 37 voice providers on Aug. 7 that demand “immediate action to stop illegal robocalls being routed through their networks,” according to Raoul’s office.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
DeKalb library to host genealogy resources workshop Aug. 19
Join the DeKalb Public Library for a free workshop on exploring genealogy using online tools and GPS technology.
The event will take place at 6 p.m. Aug. 19 in the Yusunas Meeting Room on the library’s lower level, located at 309 Oak St. Participants will learn how to navigate
The warning letters tell those providers they have failed to comply with FCC rules, failed to register in the FCC’s Robocall Mitigation Database and failed to file a plan describing how they will reduce “illegal robocalls on their network,” according to Raoul’s office.
“By disregarding these simple rules, the companies are allowing robocallers into their phone networks and then passing those calls on to other downstream providers until they reach the phones of Illinois residents,” according to Raoul’s office.
The task force also sent letters to 99 downstream providers that accept call traffic from the 37 companies, warning those companies that they are “doing business with bad actors that are not willing to follow rules that apply to all providers,” according to Raoul’s office.
Verizon, one of the largest telecommunication companies in the world, was named as one of those downstream providers in a list posted on the task force’s website.
On Aug. 6, the FCC announced they have removed 185 noncompliant voice service providers from the Robocall Mitigation Database.
That action will prevent those providers from connecting to U.S. networks until they comply with FCC regulations, according to a statement from the FCC.
“The FCC is engaged in a comprehensive effort to combat the scourge of illegal robocalls. That includes preventing providers from connecting to our networks if they fail to meet their regulatory obligations,” FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said.
websites like Find A Grave and BillionGraves, along with using GPS to locate relatives in cemeteries.
Attendees are welcome to bring a laptop to follow along.
No registration is required.
For more information, email brittak@ dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2100.
– Shaw Local News Network
Kwame Raoul
DeKalb Area Women’s Center, 1021 State St. in DeKalb, will host an exhibit by artist
Curl-Woodruff titled “Strange Looking Creature” through August.
DeKALB
‘Strange Looking Creature’ artist reception set for Aug. 22
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The DeKalb Area Women’s Center will host “Strange Looking Creature,” a photographic art collection by Bernadette Curl-Woodruff, through August.
An artist reception will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 22 at the center, 1021 State St., DeKalb. The evening will feature beverages, hors d’oeuvres and live music by Randy Harvey and Beaverhead.
“Strange Looking Creature” showcases life-sized photographic works reflecting Curl-Woodruff’s unique worldview. The pieces blend analog and digital photography, influenced by her background in metal and woodwork. Her work also explores themes of identity, perception and legacy through self-portraiture and still life.
“Self portraiture is an open confrontation with the discomforting feeling of
being perceived by others,” Curl-Woodruff said in a news release. “It’s not about ego or vanity – it’s about encountering one’s own form in strange and delicate parallel realities.”
“It’s an honor to share this work at the Women’s Center and to explore what it means to be a woman in this time and place,” Curl-Woodruff said in the release. “I’m especially interested in how the work – mounted without protective glass to age naturally – will interact with the space and how audiences will respond to its lived-in quality in the light of those beautiful windows.”
Curl-Woodruff is a northern Illinois-based photographic artist whose work often centers on life at the margins of society and the metaphysical weight of personal and cultural legacy.
For information, visit dekalbawc. org, email elisa.woodruff@gmail.com or visit bkc-w.com.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
DeKalb library to host democracy series program Aug. 16
Children ages 4 to 7 can participate in activities and stories to become thoughtful community members during a program at the DeKalb Public Library. The free program will be held from 10 to 10:20 a.m. Aug. 16 in the library’s Story and Activity Room, 309 Oak St.
Participants will discuss how to think
about others. The program includes an activity, discussion and story. Children must be accompanied by a parent.
The program will be led by Responsive Engagement Activating Civic Talent members.
No registration is required.
For information, email theresaw@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3350.
– Shaw Local News Network
This is a unique opportunity to experience the personalized care, exceptional
and variety of activities and entertainment Oak Crest residents enjoy daily!
For over 40 years, Oak Crest has been the premier Senior Living and Long-term Care Community in DeKalb County. Our 5-Star rated Mildred & Howard Eychaner Health Center has provided unparalleled care and hospitality to Oak Crest residents for decades.
Camden Lazenby file photo
The
Bernadette
S.O.A.S. Apparel and Design marks first anniversary
The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated S.O.A.S. Apparel and Design owner Ashley Erickson’s first anniversary. Chamber staff, board and community members, and ambassadors marked the occasion with a ribbon-cutting on July 18. S.O.A.S. Apparel and Design, 147 N. Second St., DeKalb, specializes in high-quality custom apparel decoration such as printing and embroidery. For information, visit soasdekalb.com or call 815-756-9910.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Wise and Well Senior Summit set for Aug. 21 in DeKalb
The DeKalb Township will host a Wise and Well Senior Summit to inform, connect and support seniors. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 21 at Faranda’s Banquet Center, 302 Grove St., DeKalb.
The summit features 80 speakers presenting 35 sessions designed for seniors. Topics of discussion include health care, asset protection, scams and fraud prevention, financial assistance programs, aging in place, legacy planning, coping with loss, mental health and the aging mind, movement and healthy living, alternative transportation, travel, lifelong learning, safe driving, combating isolation, veteran services and therapeutic hobbies. Illinois Tollway representatives also will be available to assist attendees. No registration is required. For information, visit dekalbtownship.org/events or call 815-758-8282. – Shaw Local News Network
NON-EMERGENCY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES TRANSPORTATION SERVICES MEDICAL APPOINTMENT ASSISTANCE ENTITLEMENTS AND BENEFITS CONSULTATION PRESCRIPTION PICKUP
“Angel Medical Management Services has been a true support system for me. I had an early morning appointment. and they were there right on time. One of the drivers even sat with me before a procedure just to help me stay calm—something you don’t find often these days. They’re incredibly reliable, kind, and professional. I can’t thank them enough.”
Photo provided by the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
DeKalb Municipal Band to close 171st season on Aug. 19
Vocalist Maureen Christine will perform with the DeKalb Municipal Band for the final concert of its 171st season.
The free concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 19 in the Dee Palmer Bandshell at Hopkins Park, 1403 Sycamore Road, DeKalb. Christine will sing “What a Wonderful World,” “(The) Way You Look Tonight” and “On the Street Where You Live” from “My Fair Lady.”
Other music on the program includes “Bugler’s Holiday,” “Barber of Seville,“ “America the Beautiful“ and “Knights of the Road.“ The concert also will feature trumpetist Mark Baldin.
Christine is a concert vocalist and Broadway-style entertainer. She has worked with Pete Christlieb of the Johnny Carson Tonight Show Orchestra and recorded two albums. Christine has opened for Willie Nelson and performed with Barry Manilow and Count Basie Orchestra musicians.
The DeKalb Municipal Band is conducted by Kirk Lundbeck.
For more information, visit dekalbmunicipalband.com.
• SCHOOL DISTRICT 427
Continued from page 4
that we see him depart, particularly without the customary recognition and farewell he deserves.”
After the special meeting Aug. 1, board members Cole Regnery, Heather Tomlinson and Beth Marie Evans declined to comment on why they had agreed to the separation agreement. They referred comment back to the school board president.
While DeVito also declined to fully explain the rationale behind the board’s agreement with Wilder, he did discuss the current leadership in the district’s new administrative center, where the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting Aug. 5.
Nicholas Reineck, assistant superintendent for human resources and educational programs, has been named acting superintendent. DeVito said he’s working to officially install an interim superintendent.
NIU Annuitants Association headed to Branson
The Northern Illinois University Annuitants Association is accepting reservations for its upcoming trip to Branson, Missouri, scheduled for Nov. 10-14.
Highlights include a visit to downtown Branson, Branson Landing and live performances including the Doug Gabriel show, “Christmas Wonderland,” “Edge of Illusion featuring Reza,” “David,” The Haygoods Christmas Show and “Beach Boys: California Dreamin’.”
The trip includes four nights of lodging, four breakfasts, four dinners and roundtrip transportation. The cost is $897 per person. The deadline to reserve a spot is Sept. 5
Upcoming trips include:
• New York City and the Statue of Liberty, Sept. 11-17, $1,125
• Mount Rushmore, Sept. 21-27, waitlist only
• The Best of Ireland, Oct. 1-12, waitlist only
• Christmas markets cruise on the Danube, Nov. 30-Dec. 8
For information, call 815-756-1547.
– Shaw Local News Network
“The difference between an active and an interim is that in an active superintendent, it follows the succession of authority,” DeVito said. “The next natural step would be for the board to select an interim superintendent for the time between now and when we are able to bring on a full-time superintendent.”
DeVito said Wilder presented the school board with a plan in 2024 that outlined Reineck as the administrator who would take on the active superintendent role in the event Wilder was no longer performing the duties of the job.
DeVito said he hopes the person they hire as superintendent will use the thoughts and perspectives of the district’s community to form their recommendations for future district policies.
“We want the next hire to incorporate input from students, teachers, the administration and the 427 community,” DeVito said. “It needs to truly be indicative of what those stakeholders would like. And we hope to engage a firm very shortly who can deliver results and take that in mind.”
Sycamore Lions Club Inaugural Cookie Crawl to Support Pediatric Cancer
Saturday, September 13th, 2025
Sycamore Illinois
How the Cookie Crawl Works:
• Purchase a cookie container online to join the fun.
• At container pickup, receive:
Follow the link to purchase a cookie container!
JOIN THE COOKIE CRAWL TO CRUMBLE CHILDHOOD CANCER
• A map marking all the cookie stations at participating Sycamore businesses
• The hours of operation for all locations
• Set off on a delicious adventure from stop to stop, collecting cookies along the way.
• Proceeds from container sales help support Sycamore-area families fighting pediatric cancer.
Cookie container pickup will be from 9AM - 11AM. Pick up location and other details are on the online purchase page through the link.
AMUSEMENTS
CLASSIFIED PUBLIC AUCTIO N
Genoa
Barn-A-Gan za Barn Sa le
Saturday, August 16 9am to 4pm
located at the intersection of Derby Line Road & Secretariat Drive in Genoa.
Please park along Se cr etariat Drive as there is limited access to the bar n dri veway
miss this chance to bid on real estate in S out h Gu lf Cove and No rth Port. South Gulf Cove: 5 canal lots, 13 building lots, an d 1 newly constructed home North Port : 18 building lo ts and 6 newly constructed homes. Au ction Da te: September 18 at 3:00 PM For full de tails, vi sit woltz.com or call 800-551-3588. Woltz & Associates, Inc.Real Estate Brok ers & Auctioneers, Roanoke, VA Russell Se neff (AU4521), in conjunction wi th Murray R. Wise (BK3295976) 5% Buyer's Premium.
Feat urin g Antiques and collectibles, to ols, fully refurbishe d Gerstner to ol boxes, Lawn equi pment, Halloween stuff, cust om woodworking items, furniture, carpets, kitchen items and much much more!
One day only
No early birds! Cash and carry only.
KINGSTON - 120 Main St
Ki ngston Friend ship Center
Thurs day 8/21 thru Saturday 8/23 9am to 5pm
RUMMAGE SALE
Household goods, clothes & more
IF YOU HA D KNEE OR HIP REPLAC EMENT SURGER Y AND SUFF ER ED AN INFECTION betwee n 2020 an d th e present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call At torney C harles H. Johnson 1-800 -535 -5727
You Want It? We've Got It! Clas sified has GREAT VARIETY!
833-584-NEWS MidWeekNews.com
Since we have moved into assisted living and are se lling our home, we will sell the followi ng antiqu e furnitur e, collectibles, DeKalb Ag advertising items , artwork, and house hol d items at NO RESERVE To The Highest Bidde r. Located at: 712 Moccasin Drive, Shabbona, Illinois
SW co rner of town just of Preserve Road Watch for Almbur g Auction Signs.
Saturday, August 16th starti ng at 10 :30 am
DEKALB AG COLLECTIBLES
Wi nged ear signs, left and right, Ti n fence post signs; License Plate holders; Toy truc k; desk clocks; 9 cloth seed bags all with different vari ety numbers; rain gauge; pit helmet; old pat ches and pins Other Ag and corn related items, non- DeKalb Ag including several framed corn pictures and prints; Cindy Brown Prints; corn dish an d bowls. If you collec t, yo u need to be he re!
QUALITY ANTIQUE FURNITURE
Oak Square dining table with 5 slat back chairs; oak Hall Seat with back mirror and hat hooks; Oak Side B oard server w/ back mirr or; 6ft Oa k Church Pew from St. Mary's Church, DeKalb; Oak Chifforobe dresser; Oak commode with back mirror and towel bar; Large Oak Spinning wheel; Victorian style glass top display case; Humidor st and; Railr oad Depot double chimney lamp, th at has been electrified; Large red lens shops lantern; Stained gl ass window; Wall or counter mount paper dispenser from dry goods store or butcher shop; Primitive Baby Cradle on wheels used to keep baby in when working in the fields, very old; Mission St yle Oak drop front desk; Platform rocker; Hide-a-bed; several other folding chairs, end ta bles; Brass full size bed he ad and fo ot board; Singer treadle sewing machine made in to a side table.
Glassware- Country Collectibles- Housewares-Yard and Ga rden
Rosevill e Pottery; Lots Jewel-Tea kitchenware, pitchers, bowls, servers; Pink depression gl assware; Copper boiler; Lots of Native American wall and shelve decor: Several crocks and churn; Wooden 12 dozen egg create; Large assortment of 1950' s-60's-70s Baseball and footba ll cards; Max Armstrong collector trac tors in bo x; other Ertl trac tors; Bo ys Sti ng-Ray Bike; Mustang Pedal car from th e early 60' s; Frigidaire refrigerator w/ top freez er, Frigidaire up rite freezer, both like new!; Coleman 5,000 watt 10 hp generator; Excell power washer; Large cast scoldi ng ket tle; lots of yard, garden and h and tools; Lawn sweeper; Power edger; Hand and garage to ols. and many more nice items of in terest Auctioneers Note: Tom was the National Sales Manager and V.P. of marketing for DeKalb Ag, over 40 years. A very nice offering Plen ty of parking. Join us for this grea t Auct ion! Lots of great pictures on our websit e: www.almbur gaucti ons.com Terms: Cash, Checks, Credit Cards with 4% transaction fee added to total charged. Announcements made sale day take precedence over all
Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNTYSYCAMORE, ILLINOIS
Selene Finance LP PLAINTIFF Vs Eugene Wendt; et al DEFENDANT S No 2025FC000006
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgmen of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 05/12/2025, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on September 25 2025 at the hour of 1:00 PM at Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Sycamore, IL 60178, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 19-26-4 76- 008 a/k/a 19-26-476-008-0000
Improved with Single Family Home
COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 337 W Third Street Sandwich, IL 60548
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bi d 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 at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction ther eof 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 agains 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 ees 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 Ac t, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
dition. 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 Ac t, 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 shal 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 indivi duals presently in possession of the subject premises The propert y 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 Cour 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 cont act Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associ ates P.C. 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-2406311. I3271350 (Published in The MidWeek, Aug. 13, 20, 27, 2025)
DON'T NEED IT? SELL IT FAST! MidWeek Clas sified Call 833-584-NEWS
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 paymen 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 indivi duals presently in possession of the subject premises The propert y 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 ch k th C t file to if
PUBLIC NOT ICE
NOTICE OF PUBL IC HEARING
Notice is hereby given by the Governi ng Board of the Kishwaukee Education Consortium, a Joint Agreement regional vocation education delivery system, in the County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, that a tentat ive budget for the Consortium for the fiscal year begi nning July 1, 2025 will be on file and conveniently available for public inspection at the Consortium office at 21255 Malta Rd Malta, llinois, within the boundaries of this Joint Agreement, from and afte r 8:00 a.m. CDT August 13th, 2025
Notice is further hereby given that a public hearing on said budget will be held September 17, 2025 at 7:30 a.m. in the DeKaib County Re gi on al Superintendents office.
Dated this 13th day of August, 2025
Tom Crouch Executive Director Kishwaukee Education Consortium
(Published in The Midweek August 13, 2025) 2264588
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNTYSYCAMORE, IL LINOIS
Selene Finance LP PLAINTIFF Vs Eugene Wendt; et al DEFENDANT S No 2025FC000006
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgmen of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 05/12/2025, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on September 25 2025 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: LOT 2 IN BLOCK 5 IN JOLES' ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE, NOW CITY OF SANDWICH, SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF DEKALB, AND STATE OF ILLINOIS.
PIN 19-26-4 76- 008 a/k/a 19-26-476-008-0000
Improved with Single Family Home
COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 337 W Third Street
Sandwich, IL 60548
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bi d 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 at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction ther eof 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 agains said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and ithout to
$1,000 or fraction ther eof 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 evi ed against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and withou recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)
If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shal 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 indivi duals presently in possession of the subject premises
The propert y 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 Cour 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 15OF THE ILLINOIS MO FORECLOSURE LA For information: Ex cour file or cont ac attorney: Codilis ci ates, P.C., 15W0 Frontage Road, Suite Burr Ridge, IL (630) 794-9876 fer to file numbe 06311. I32713
