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Sycamore superintendent search to continue with public forum
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
The search for someone to lead Sycamore schools will continue Sept. 18, when the national firm hired by the district plans to host a public forum on plans to find the next superintendent.
Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates will host a forum from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 in the Sycamore High School auditorium.
In response to a request for comment from Shaw Local News Network, Sycamore School District 427 board President Michael DeVito said the event is being held to make sure the community’s voices shape the decision-making process behind picking a new superintendent.
“We want to hear directly from parents, staff, students and community members about the qualities and priorities they believe are most important in our next leader,” DeVito said. “That feedback helps ensure the search reflects the
needs and aspirations of the Sycamore community, not just the board’s perspective.”
The search for a new superintendent began after a special District 427 board meeting Aug. 1, during which the present board members unanimously voted to separate from former Superintendent Steve Wilder.
Although Wilder was removed from the superintendent role, he still will be paid by the district through March 31. Details on the board’s rationale have remained sparse, even as the board faced public criticism of the decision. Wilder and the board have said the decision was mutual.
With Wilder on paid leave when the school year began in late August, Nick Reineck, assistant superintendent for human resources and educational programs, has been named District 427’s interim superintendent.
The Sept. 18 forum isn’t the only way the Sycamore schools community can
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
DeKalb library to hold property research workshop Sept. 17
Adults interested in learning how to start research on their home or property can do so at a workshop at the DeKalb Public Library.
The workshop will be held at 6 p.m. Sept.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
puzzlesonpage17
17 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Attendees can explore how to begin DeKalb County property research. Participants also can learn about online resources and the DeKalb County History Center’s archival information. The workshop will be
contribute to the conversation. District 427 and HYA also are conducting a stakeholders survey to better understand the community’s desires for the position.
DeVito said the survey and public forum are essential parts of the process of picking Sycamore’s next superintendent.
“They create a broad base of input that HYA will synthesize into a leadership profile, which will guide candidate recruitment and selection,” DeVito wrote.
DeVito, who as board president has the ability to set the agenda of the school board, said he plans to call a special meeting Sept. 30 to formally approve the leadership profile used for the candidate search.
“The more perspectives we gather, the better positioned we are to identify a superintendent who can advance our district’s mission of empowering all learners to succeed in their world,” DeVito said.
led by Joiner History Room archival and collection specialist Rob Glover and volunteer Russ Johnson. No registration is required.
For information, email brittak@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2100.
– Shaw Local News Network
ON THE COVER
Northern Illinois University cheerleaders march through downtown DeKalb on Oct. 17, 2024, during the parade at the Huskie Homecoming Block Party. This year’s freshman class at Northern Illinois University is the second largest since 2014. See story, page 6.
Mark Busch file photo
CORRECTIONS
Accuracy is important to The MidWeek. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411 or email at readit@midweeknews.com.
Summer 2025 projects completed at D-428 buildings
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
As summer faded for students and staff, DeKalb School District 428 wrapped up multiple facility projects to welcome students and staff for the start of a new school year.
Tammy Carson, the district’s director of facility and safety operations, said she’s proud of what the department has accomplished.
“A lot of delays happen with construction,” Carson said. “We can’t get in and clean spaces. We appreciate the patience of the teaching staff and administration not being able to always get in the buildings exactly when they want to. Giving us that time, we’re able to really have the buildings ready for our students to return.”
This summer, the district undertook an effort to complete more than $4.5 million in upgrades to school facilities, officials said. Larger bid projects were previously approved by the DeKalb School District 428 board earlier this year.
Among some of the summer projects completed were playground replace -
ments at Tyler and Littlejohn elementary schools; toilet room renovations at Jefferson and Lincoln elementary schools; toilet room additions at Found-
ers Elementary School; parking lot replacement at the Education Center; sealcoating/striping at Huntley Middle School/Early Learning Development
Center, Menta Academy and DeKalb High School; and roof replacements at Brooks Elementary School and Huntley Middle School/Early Learning Development Center.
Carson touted the completion of the boiler replacements at Founders and Brooks elementary schools.
“With these being completed, that leaves only the boiler at Huntley Middle School that still needs to be replaced,” Carson said. “We are looking at that as a potential project for either ’26 or ’27, depending on funding.”
Carson also noted that a pair of playground replacements was done.
“Most of [the buildings] have their original playgrounds,” Carson said. “This year, we did finish the rest of Littlejohn, and then, we did replace all of Tyler. And Tyler, what used to be one playground, we opted to put it into two playgrounds, like we have in our other buildings. So, there is a playground for smaller, younger-age students and then a playground for the older students.”
Carson acknowledged all the
Mark Busch file photo
Students arrive for the first day of school Aug. 13 at Founders Elementary in DeKalb.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Northern Rehab to offer joint replacement therapy presentation Sept. 18 in Sycamore
Northern Rehab Physical Therapy Specialists and the Kishwaukee Family YMCA will hold a presentation titled “Physical Therapy After Joint Replacement” as part of its Lunch and Learn Educational Series.
The free event will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 18 at the Kishwaukee Family YMCA, 2500 Bethany Road, Sycamore.
Participants will learn about basic joint structures, structure changes following joint replacement surgery, and what to expect during physical therapy. The presentation will be led by physical therapist Chris Walters.
• DISTRICT 428
Continued from page 3
improvements made, even the projects that are hard to see, and said they’re all important to the district’s function.
“What you’re really seeing is a whole lot of work on ... these buildings,” Carson said. “Those shiny floors
Refreshments will be served by Hy-Vee. Due to limited space, registration is required to attend. To register, visit kishymca.org or call 815-375-5392.
Northern Rehab Physical Therapy Specialists is a physical therapist-owned and -operated physical therapy practice, providing clients with customized care for more than 46 years.
The Kishwaukee Family YMCA is a nonprofit that seeks to enrich the spirit, mind and body of all those in the community, especially families and children, regardless of ability to pay.
For information, visit northernrehabpt. com/events or kishymca.org or call 815-375-5392.
– Shaw Local News Network
don’t last forever.”
Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez expressed appreciation for the work of the district’s facility operations department over the summer.
“I’m going to concur with thanking everybody who’s done such a terrific job over the summer and to get us started for the year,” Garcia-Sanchez said.
A look at some of the larger summer projects:
Brooks Elementary
• Roof replacement
• Large gym fan installation
• Marquee sign installation
Jefferson Elementary
• Toilet room renovation
• Sensory room addition
• Gym ductwork replacement
• Site improvements
• Marquee sign installation
Littlejohn Elementary
• Ceiling and lights replacement
• New mobile classroom installation
• New classroom doors installation
• Playground replacement
Tyler Elementary
• Playground replacement
• Large gym fan installation
Founders Elementary
• Toilet room additions
• Boiler replacement
• Boiler flue replacement
• Site improvements
• Large gym fan installation
• New classroom doors installation
• Marquee sign installation
Lincoln Elementary
• Toilet room renovations
• PE office/storage expansion
Huntley Middle School/Early Learning Development Center
• New office/workroom renovations
• Flooring replacement
• Roof replacement
• Site improvements
• Sealcoating/striping
DeKalb High School
• Track resurfacing
• Target room renovation (under construction)
• Sealcoating/striping
Education Center
• Parking lot replacement
• Archive room renovation
Menta Academy
• Sealcoating/striping
Districtwide
• Water treatment equipment installation
NIU Homecoming Coloring Contest
Deadline to drop o at the DeKalb or Sycamore Library is Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. For details: go.niu.edu/homecoming.
— Welcome Home Huskies —
Sponsored by
Student first name and last name, grade and school, and parent/guardian phone number.
Officials: NIU freshman enrollment up
College touts opportunities for first-generation college students with high GPAs
By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com
This year’s freshman class at Northern Illinois University is the second largest since 2014 and made up of a majority of first-generation college students, marking a break in a two-year incoming class slump and what officials said Sept. 9 shows NIU’s commitment to making higher education accessible to all.
The DeKalb university welcomed 2,435 new freshmen this fall, according to 10-day enrollment data published by NIU on Sept. 9. In 2024, NIU officials blamed delays in the student federal aid process for decreased freshmen numbers. NIU brought in 1,991 freshmen in 2024, 2,202 in 2023 and 2,440 in 2022.
This year, officials pointed to impressive GPA stats and partnerships with area community colleges among reasons for the improved enrollment numbers.
New transfers also are up, according to the data. Total university enrollment is 16,078, a 4.3% or 663-student increase compared with this time last year.
“NIU’s enrollment momentum comes from students connecting to what matters most: excellent academic programs with proven career outcomes; a community where they feel they belong; and life-changing opportunities inside and outside the classroom,” NIU President Lisa C. Freeman said in a news release. “That combination is why more students are choosing to be Huskies.”
8 of every 10 receive merit scholarships
More than half of the new freshmen Huskies are first-generation college students, and 8 of every 10 freshmen received a merit scholarship, which NIU awards based on a student’s high school GPA, according to the university.
The average high school GPA for freshmen is 3.42, tying a record high set in 2022 and again in 2023. According to the data, 18% of this year’s freshmen had 4.0 high school GPAs, with each earning a merit scholarship of $7,000. New freshmen with high school GPAs of 3.7 or higher represented 37% of the 2025 class.
NIU recently was recognized nationally for its efforts to support students transferring from community colleges.
ABOVE: This year’s freshmen class at Northern Illinois University
students, marking a break in a two-year incoming class
BELOW: Northern Illinois University students have some
According to the 10-day enrollment data, NIU brought in 1,622 new transfers, the largest group in eight years. The university enrolled 1,462 transfer students in 2024, 1,325 in 2023 and 1,252 in 2022, data shows.
NIU designated as Hispanic-serving institution
For the first time in its history, NIU is recognized as a federally designated Hispanic-serving institution, officials announced Sept. 9.
Hispanic students have represented more than one-quarter of the total undergraduate full-time population for three consecutive years.
The designation reflects NIU’s commitment to fostering access and success for all students, officials said.
“Being designated an HSI affirms NIU’s commitment to access, affordability, social mobility and our long-standing tradition of matching talent with opportunity,” said Carol Sumner, NIU’s vice president for diversity, equity and
and what
inclusion and chief diversity officer.
“This recognition opens doors to new opportunities and partnerships that will further strengthen advising, student support and academic programs, bene-
fiting all students – Hispanic, African American, Asian, Native American, rural, first-generation, low-income, Pell
Mark Busch file photos
is the second largest since 2014 and made up of majority first-generation college
slump
officials said Sept. 9, shows NIU’s commitment to academic success.
fun Oct. 17, 2024, in downtown DeKalb during the Huskie Homecoming Block Party.
DeKalb leaders reject data center, solar facility proposal
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
In a split vote, the DeKalb City Council shut down plans backed by a Champaign-based developer to build a data center and solar facility off Peace Road.
The petitioner, Nick Mahoney of Donato Solar, approached DeKalb city leaders seeking approval of a series of measures, including an agreement for annexation of the property, a development agreement, rezoning and more.
Mahoney sought to build a 4-megawatt solar energy system and two 6,000-square-foot data center buildings on about 30 acres at 1199 N. Peace Road.
In January, plans for what project leaders have previously said would make for a “boutique data center” received favorable support from an advisory panel. No official action was taken. It has been pitched as a way to “off-
set” utility costs, especially during peak energy consumption periods. To accomplish this feat, the project would come with the capability to interconnect with the existing Ameren distribution grid, aiding the development of solar energy systems and battery systems, and leasing data storage to tenants. The plans also would have provided for energy collected from the solar field to be calculated with existing ComEd meters, according to the development’s proposal.
ing votes were cast by Aldermen Tracy Smith, Mike Verbic, Andre Powell, John Walker, and Alderwoman Carolyn Zasada. Second Ward Alderwoman Barb Larson was absent.
The city manager had recommended that the council approve a number of measures associated with the development on Sept. 8, despite DeKalb’s Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously voting the previous week to recommend council action against the project.
should be open to considering.”
Several residents on Sept. 8 shared objections to the development during a public hearing before the council voted.
Elizabeth Johnson Kueny said she was wary about the petitioner’s commitment to DeKalb.
DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes said he supported the petitioner’s plans.
“With all the great information you all provided and all the emails that I’ve gotten, I can’t see a better project to ultimately protect that neighborhood,” Barnes said.
In a 2-5 split vote last week, the City Council rejected an agreement for the annexation of the property. The dissent-
Some city staff said the commission’s vote was not in line with its mandate, however.
City Manager Bill Nicklas said the city is not a “doormat” to the will of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
“It’s our business, according to state law, to actually be considering these things,” Nicklas said. “Whether we approve them or not is something we
“My first concern is that given the tariff situation and the current [Trump] administration, [as well as] the antipathy toward alternative energy resources, I’m concerned that this facility will not be feasible for construction to finish, or if it does, the tax incentives will change and it will be more profitable,” Johnson Kueny said. “I speak on this [from experience]. When I was a child, there was an ethanol plant near my house in St. Paul, and as soon as the tax incentives went away, the facility was abandoned. It was an absolute blunt on the neighborhood.”
DeKalb resident Jennifer Lucchesi said she doesn’t agree with the line of thinking that a “lesser of evils” would be better.
“I just think that process matters,”
Carolyn Zasada Tracy Smith
seasonal buffet special offered by Faranda’s Catering
Park district invites community to share thoughts on master plan
tives, that the district can achieve over five years.
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
The DeKalb Park District announced that it is inviting the community to share thoughts as it seeks to develop a comprehensive master plan.
The planning document, upon its completion, is meant to guide the work of park district officials over five years, according to a news release.
“Opportunities exist to enrich the park district’s amenities and improve the quality of life for residents, visitors, and future generations,” the district said in the release. “Please help by letting us know how we are doing and what you would like to see in the future.”
The district has enlisted the teams at Hitchcock Design Group, Larson & Darby, Recreation Results, and aQity Research to prepare an updated comprehensive master plan, laying out recommendations to help guide future planning, according to the release.
The planning process is intended to provide a prioritized implementation strategy, including chronological objec-
The district’s end goal is simple: to provide some consensus on preferred strategies and a roadmap for implementation to help steer improvements to the park district’s amenities and resources, according to the release.
As part of this process, the district intends to host a community focus group to get a sense of where the public sees the agency’s direction going in the future, according to the release. In addition, a survey will go out in the mail to a select group of random households, followed by an online survey on the district’s website set for release in November, which will be open to all.
On Sept. 25, the district invites the public to attend a community focus group, encouraging people to provide feedback about the district’s current offerings and what they would like to see in the future. The meeting, which will start at 6 p.m. at the Hopkins Community Center in DeKalb, will consist of a brainstorming session and a workshop to identify priorities. After which, participants are welcome to ask questions and provide additional written feedback.
Upon its completion in 2026, a copy of the updated comprehensive master plan is expected to be available for viewing on the district’s website at dekalbparkdistrict.com.
Dennis Leifheit
LOOKING BACK
1925 – 100 YEARS AGO
Seventy-two pupils of DeKalb High School this morning responded to a call issued by the music department of the school for persons interested in learning to play a band instrument. The organization that is being planned at the high school will be called a junior band. Nine of the 72 that answered the call own their own instrument and the school is able to furnish 10 other young people with instruments, which means that 53 more instruments must be secured immediately if the band is to be organized.
The paving of Sycamore Road, which has been in progress for the past several weeks, will be finished late this afternoon or tomorrow morning, according to a report early this afternoon. The workmen were a short distance from the railroad tracks this afternoon, laying slab, and making very good progress. The work cannot all be completed by nightfall, as a short strip in front of the Love residence north of the county infirmary must be laid. At this point new cement must be laid on both sides of the old road, and the strip was left until last in order that the old road might be used for the hauling of material.
Much fruit is being hauled over the Chicago & North Western railroad. At the present time, it is estimated that from 150 to 250 car loads of peaches, pears, cantaloupe and grapes pass through DeKalb daily. All of the cars are being re-iced in the Clinton yards before coming east.
Bids for the erection of the hotel annex and the remodeling of the present hotel are being prepared, according to one of the committee members. The member of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce hotel committee today stated that there is nothing left for the committee now to do except wait on action that is being taken by Mr. Wenzel of the Planter’s Hotel, Chicago, who is interested in the building of the new DeKalb hotel.
1950 – 75 YEARS AGO
Harold A. Rissman, enforcing officer of the DeKalb County Zoning Department, announces that several building and other permits have been issued recently. Among the permits issued were: W. B. Miner, 710
DeKalb AgResearch employes can report late for work and not worry about being fired. For more than a year now, the company has had a flexible hour policy whereby employes may work around their own schedules as long as they get their work done.
The empty lot on Mason Court will be transformed into a playground by the middle of October. The playground was part of the original plans for Mason Manor low-income housing project. However, the housing authority ran out of money and the playground plan looked as though it would never get past the architect’s drawings.
Normal Road, garage; John Halverson, rural DeKalb, garage; John W. Myers, 158 Oak Drive, house; Walter Hulmes, Meadowlands, permit to park trailer on lot. John Rosenberg representing DeKalb Agricultural Association, permit to post DeKalb Hybrid Seed Corn signs throughout the county. These are seasonal signs. Marvin Prather petitioned the Board of Appeals to consider rezoning an “F” area to a “B-2” area for the purpose of construction of a race track therein.
The float U.S.S. Illinois, which has been seen throughout the United States on its numerous tours, has probably brought Waterman, a village of several hundred population, more favorable publicity than any other thing in the history of the community. The float was conceived in the mind of Paul Eakle, who has been almost entirely responsible for the designing, creation, operation and promotion of the highway dreadnaught for the 16 years of its life. Upon his return from France after World War I, Sgt. Eakle was deeply impressed with the majesty of the New Jersey, on which he returned to the States.
Inability of The DeKalb Daily Chronicle to secure adequate standard size newsprint has forced the use of odd-sized paper. Today’s issue of The Chronicle is
seven columns in width instead of the conventional eight. The newsprint was secured from The Chronicle’s regular source when the company was unable to provide additional standard sized print. The odd-sized paper will probably be used for the next five to six weeks.
Harrison Van Natta, Sycamore mortician was elected coroner of DeKalb County today by the Board of Supervisors to fill the unexpired term of the late W. W. Cooper of Genoa.
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History has taken on a tremendous moving job. For the purposes of better exhibition, it has become necessary to move Joe from one room to another. Joe is the familiar title of a 25,000-year-old mastodon which is the museum’s prize item. The curators and their assistants are busy taking Joe apart, cataloging and washing his bones and then dipping them in a preservative.
1975 – 50 YEARS AGO
Time prevented the Lindgren Bros. of Sycamore from providing emergency grain storage elevators for the Evansville, Wisc., farmers this year. A farmers group led by Arnold Rupnow approached Lindgren Bros. for help after an effort to reopen the bankrupt Farmer’s Grain Exchange fell through.
Regulations for snowmobilers using the county forest preserves will be formulated soon. The county has had no formal policy for snowmobilers using the forest preserves. Non-snowmobilers using the forest preserves last winter registered some complaints against snowmobile enthusiasts.
2000 – 25 YEARS AGO
Due to the popularity of swimming during cold weather, the Kishwaukee Family YMCA has stepped up with a new indoor swimming pool addition to its existing building. The new 18,000-squarefoot addition will be the home to an eightlane lap swimming pool with bleacher seating and separate locker rooms for men and women. The YMCA also will have a new front entrance and desk area once construction is complete.
The Kelly Miller Circus will appear at Indian Springs Shopping Center on Monday in Sandwich. The circus elephants will begin erecting the Big Top around 8 a.m. and everyone is invited to come and watch.
Sycamore has set an ambitious goal for itself. It hopes to raise $1.7 million for the transformation of the community center into a proposed performing arts center. The new center will be equipped with galleries, meeting rooms and a 250-seat theater. The renovation of an old building is better for the community than the construction of a new one. It will only add to the quaintness of downtown Sycamore. – Compiled by Sue Breese
Photo provided by DeKalb County History Center Archives
The DeKalb Public Hospital’s new electroencephalograph is demonstrated by Mrs. Glennie Barshinger in 1970.
A Bold New Flavor Has Arrived Ellwood Steak and Fish House Welcomes a Star Chef from Catch 35 Elevated dining. Unforgettable taste.
At Ellwood Steak and Fish House, we’re known for our prime cuts, fresh seafood, and elegant atmosphere. Now, we’re taking things to the next level.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
DeKalb Township to host tire recycling event Sept. 20
The DeKalb Township will partner with the DeKalb Township Road District to host a drive-thru tire recycling event for township residents to dispose of old tires. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 20 at the township building,
• NIU ENROLLMENT
Continued from page 6
eligible, transfer and returning learners.”
NIU Law School enrollment grows
Year-over-year total enrollment increased in all seven NIU colleges, according to the university.
NIU Law School’s enrollment grew by 4% to 352 students, its largest ever, data shows.
The Rockford Promise Program at NIU, a partnership guaranteeing tuition and general fee costs for up to four years at NIU, welcomed 140 new freshmen scholars, also its largest class ever, according to the university. The program, which is recognized nationally for innovation, also enrolled its first transfers from Rock Valley College and now has a total enrollment of 408 NIU Rockford Promise scholars.
“We’re grateful for the efforts of our entire Huskie community,” Sol Jensen, NIU vice president for enrollment management, marketing and communica -
SANDRA JEAN ANDERSEN
Born: September 5, 1942 in Amboy, IL
Died: September 5, 2025 in Garden Prairie, IL
Sandra Jean Andersen of Genoa, IL, passed away on Friday, September 5, 2025 at her home in Garden Prairie surrounded by her loved ones and hospice aids. Sandra was born on December 5, 1942 in Amboy, IL the daughter of Robert and Marion Herrmann (Butler). She married the love of her life, John Paul Andersen on April 25, 1964, at St. James Church, Belvidere, IL. They were members of St. Catherine’s Church in Genoa.
Sandra was a devoted registered nurse, dedicating 45 years of her life to her profession. In her free time, she loved to sew, read and do
2323 S. Fourth St.
Attendees can bring up to six tires including vehicle, tractor and bicycle tires. Metal components such as rims and hubcaps must be removed. Attendees must bring proof of township residency. For information, call 815-758-8282.
– Shaw Local News Network
NIU’s enrollment momentum comes from students connecting to what matters most: excellent academic programs with proven career outcomes; a community where they feel they belong; and lifechanging opportunities inside and outside the classroom. That combination is why more students are choosing to be Huskies.”
Lisa C. Freeman, NIU president
tions, said in the release. “With strong academic programs, substantial financial support – including generous merit scholarships – and a wealth of resources dedicated to student success, NIU continues to gain recognition from students and parents as a leading choice for educational excellence, affordability and an enriching college experience.”
all sorts of crafts. She dearly loved her family and friends.
Sandra is survived by her children, Janine Andersen-Misener (Howard) and Eric John of Madison, WI, several nieces and nephews, two granddaughters and two great-grandchildren.
She is predeceased by her husband; parents; and her sister Jane.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorials in her name to any veteran organization or Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Society in Genoa. The family extends special thanks to her caregivers at Northern Illinois Hospice, Assisting Hands, all of her dear friends, Doctors/ Nurses at UW Health, OSF St. Anthony and Loyola.
Burial will be private at St. Catherine Cemetery, Genoa.
Housing
Authority of the County of DeKalb
310 North Sixth Street
DeKalb, Illinois 60115
Phone 815.758.2692
Fax 815.758.4190
The Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb is accepting pre-applications for the Low Income Public Housing Program from applicants who are income eligible and have two (2) or more local preferences. Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62 or older) and/or households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member has a verifiable Disability.
• Accommodations for independent living seniors, couples or person with disabilities
• Security Features
• Laundry Facilities
• Friendly On-site Management
• Clean & Safe Atmosphere
• 24 Hour Maintenance Service
For more information, please call 815-758-2692, or applications are available at our main office at 310 N. 6th Street, DeKalb or online at www.dekcohousing.com
What seniors can do to maintain a healthy weight
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a lifelong process. Children tend to be so physically active and grow at such a consistent pace that it’s easier for them to consume a highcalorie diet without becoming overweight. That’s generally not the case after adolescence, and it might be particularly difficult for seniors to avoid gaining weight. In a 2020 interview with Tufts Medicine, Jillian Reece, a bariatric dietitian at Tufts Medical Center, noted that a person’s basal metabolic rate slows downs with aging. The basal metabolic rate indicates the rate at which the body uses energy while at rest. As that rate slows down, body weight can increase. But seniors should know they aren’t helpless against nature and Father Time. In fact, there is much aging adults can do to maintain a healthy weight throughout their golden years.
• Limit portion sizes when eating. Controlling portion sizes is easier said than done, particularly for seniors who dine out with frequency. When dining out, seniors can order off the appetizer menu instead of ordering an entrée, especially when visiting an establishment known for its hefty portions. At home, pay attention to serving size data on product labeling. If necessary, measure portions when eating foods such as cereal so the portion you eat reflects the serving size noted on the box.
• Eat breakfast each morning. Seniors who skip breakfast, which may be more likely upon retiring, could be doing their waistlines a notable disservice. A 2017 statement from the American Heart Association noted that several large, long-term, prospective, observational studies have found an association between breakfast consumption and lower risk of obesity. The less structured pattern of retirement living may compel some seniors to skip breakfast, but committing to a morning meal can help keep off extra pounds.
• Commit to routine exercise. Diet can go a long way toward helping seniors maintain a healthy weight. However, diet is not the only area where seniors can help their waistlines. Routine physical activity can help seniors maintain muscle mass and make it easier to be more mobile. Staying mobile can help keep pounds off, as a sedentary lifestyle is one of the more notable risk factors for overweight and obesity. The National Institute on Aging recommends seniors aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Moderate-intensity aerobic activities are those that raise the heart rate and help seniors break a sweat, such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling.
• Make a concerted effort to remain hydrated throughout the day. The Cleveland Clinic notes that age-related body composition changes make seniors particularly vulnerable to dehydration. An aging body does not demand water like it once did, so it’s easy for seniors to forget to hydrate because they don’t feel thirsty. But remaining hydrated is important for seniors looking to maintain a healthy weight because dehydration can mimic symptoms of hunger. Seniors may reach for snacks feeling they’re hungry when all they might need is a glass of water to hydrate.
A healthy weight can allow seniors to live life to the fullest. Various strategies can help seniors achieve a healthy weight.
Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb 310 North Sixth Street DeKalb, Illinois 60115
Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb
310 North Sixth Street DeKalb, Illinois 60115
Phone 815.758.2692 • Fax 815.758.4190
Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb
Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb 310 North Sixth Street • DeKalb, Illinois 60115 Phone 815.758.2692 • Fax 815.758.4190
Phone 815.758.2692 • Fax 815.758.4190
310 North Sixth Street • DeKalb, Illinois 60115
Phone 815.758.2692 • Fax 815.758.4190
The Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb is accepting pre-applications for the Low Income Public Housing Program from applicants who are income eligible and have two (2) or more local preferences. Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/ or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households who are income eligible and whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62 or older) and/or households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member has a verifiable Disability.
The Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb is accepting pre-applications for the Low Income Public Housing Program from applicants who are income eligible and have two (2) or more local preferences. Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/ or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households who are income eligible and whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62 or older) and/or households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member has a verifiable Disability.
The Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb is accepting pre-applications for the Low Income Public Housing Program from applicants who are income eligible and have two (2) or more local preferences. Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households who are income eligible and whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62 or older) and/or households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member has a verifiable Disability.
The Housing Authority of the County of DeKalb is accepting pre-applications for the Low Income Public Housing Program from applicants who are income eligible and have two (2) or more local preferences. Sequoya Apartments in Shabbona is accepting applications from the Elderly and/ or Disabled. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is accepting applications from households who are income eligible and whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member is Elderly (62 or older) and/or households whose Head, Spouse or Sole Member has
• Accommodations for independent living seniors, couples or person with disabilities
• Accommodations for independent living seniors, couples or person with disabilities
• Accommodations for independent living seniors, couples or person with disabilities
• Accommodations for independent living seniors, couples or person with disabilities
•Security Features
•Security Features
•Security Features
•Laundry Facilities
• Security Features
•Laundry Facilities
•Laundry Facilities
• Laundry Facilities
•Friendly On-site Management
•Friendly On-site Management
•Friendly On-site Management
•Clean & Safe Atmosphere
•Clean & Safe Atmosphere
• Friendly On-site Management
•Clean & Safe Atmosphere
• Clean & Safe Atmosphere
•24 Hour Maintenance Service
•24 Hour Maintenance Service
•24 Hour Maintenance Service
• 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
& EMPLOYER
THIS INSTITUTION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER & EMPLOYER
THIS INSTITUTION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER & EMPLOYER
SM-CL2270884F
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
DeKalb library to offer book bedazzling program Sept. 22
The DeKalb Public Library will offer a program for adults and children to bedazzle books.
The free program will begin at 6 p.m Sept. 22 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St.
Participants can bring a paperback book or pick a book from the library’s free selection. Gems and glue will be provided. The program is first come, first served. No registration is required.
For information, email amyf@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2150.
– Shaw Local News Network
• FACILITY PROPOSAL
Continued from page 7
Lucchesi said. “It’s another incompatible project next door. ... Fear of something worse is not sound governance, and it should not be the reason to approve a project that does not fit.”
Mahoney tried to address some of the concerns that were raised.
“We’ve been very impressed with DeKalb’s business-friendly atmosphere, and that’s the reason why we are looking to invest in excess of $30 million on this project here,” Mahoney said. “We believe that this project is overall a great neighbor for the community, and it’s an appropriate use of the site under the comprehensive plan.”
But a majority of the City Council did not seem convinced by the petitioner’s plea amid protest from a crowd on hand for the meeting.
Verbic questioned what the City Council was doing.
“I guess my struggle is, why is this on the agenda?” Verbic said. “You’ve explained the roles well of [the] Planning and Zoning [Commission] and got a unanimous turndown of this. No one voted for any rezoning. This is highly unusual for this to come to [the] council
without any support. So, if we vote in opposition, then we ask, why do we have a Planning and Zoning Commission?”
Zasada said that seeing the community’s opposition means something to her.
“I feel like it was all the more clear this community is strongly opposed to it, and that’s the biggest issue for me,” Zasada said. “I am a solid ‘no.’ ”
Smith shared that sentiment.
“I have to say I spent more time on the phone on this issue than I have with everybody else in the last five years,” Smith said. “Some of you I know very well out there. Thank you for your calls, emails, texts.”
After the council’s first motion failed to pass, the remaining measures meant to aid the petitioner’s plans failed for lack of a motion.
The mayor, who supported the project, said he would like the Planning and Zoning Commission to meet with city staff to review its role in such matters moving forward.
“They’re there to make sure it’s falling within [Unified Development Ordinance], make sure it’s falling into codes,” Barnes said. “At that meeting, they were voting from a subjective standpoint. Their role – my understanding – is more of an objective standpoint, and that’s why we brought it forward.”
Megann Horstead DeKalb School District 428 teacher Jennifer Lucchesi speaks in opposition to Donato Solar’s plans at a Sept. 8 DeKalb City Council meeting.
NIU STEM Fest to return Sept. 20 to DeKalb
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Northern Illinois University will host its 16th annual STEM Fest featuring past, present and future technology.
STEM Fest will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 20 at the NIU Holmes Student Center, Swen Parson Hall, MLK Commons and Founders Memorial Library.
Attendees can launch weather balloons, build electrical circuits, drive robots, try “air drawing” technology and apply math concepts to an educational web game. NIU alumnus J.A. Allen, Ed.D, will demonstrate how cartoon-based learning models help communicate complex ideas.
The festival also will feature a BookLab, a hands-on space dedicated to exploring books technology, history and future. Participants can learn how a working Common Press replica works and explore historical lead type. The lab’s hands-on activities include playdough cuneiform writing and smaller BookBeetle printing presses.
“The BookLab is an exploration of the past, present and future of writing,” NIU professor of English Nicole Clifton said in a news release. “How did writing happen before computers or phones? Even though the printing press is different from our current digital technology, you can see how typesetting from several hundred years ago still influences
our digital books and word processing today, and even the words we use to talk about fonts and manuscript design.”
Attendees can explore modern technology displayed in the NIU Office of Innovation’s 71 North Partnership Studio. Participants can experience educational video games, view virtual reality technology demonstrations by NIU students, and learn about methods used to communicate complex ideas.
“We’re hosting a range of different hands-on activities that show how technologies from writing to video games to virtual reality technology help people communicate,” NIU innovation ecosystem development assistant director Federico Bassetti said in the release. “Students from our NIU Innovation Club, Burmese Student Group, Indie Game Developers and other student organizations will share their interests and expertise.”
NIU Huskieverse students will demonstrate virtual reality simulations developed as class projects. Attendees also can learn how to write Burmese characters from the Burmese Student Group.
Meta also will return to hold a “Be Pro Be Proud” mobile workshop. The workshop features virtual reality simulations for various skilled trades including robotics, welding and plumbing.
For information, visit go.niu.edu/ stemfest.
DeKalb City Council approves hotel tax-sharing agreement
DeKalb City Council approves tax-sharing deal
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
Project leaders behind a new Marriott-branded hotel are getting a boost from the city of DeKalb.
At a recent meeting, the DeKalb City Council voted in favor of a tax-sharing deal to help make the new build possible at 902 Peace Road, between the Bumper to Bumper auto parts store and the Fast Stop Express gas station.
Once it’s built, the hotel will consist
of 61 rooms branded as Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott and 59 rooms branded as TownePlace Suites by Marriott, all of which will share the same lobby, front desk, meeting room and swimming pool.
The applicant, Pramit Patel of EO5 Hotels, had approached the city to propose a hotel tax-sharing agreement to help with an additional $4 million in construction costs for the $23.2 million build. Patel pointed to tariffs and inflation as a reason for the unexpected costs, according to city documents.
City Manager Bill Nicklas urged the City Council for its support.
“The Peace Road hotel, which is what it’s doing business as, has already qualified for state-level exemptions on sales
The motel tax would be paid solely from this particular hotel complex’s revenues, not generally across the city from other facilities.”
Bill Nicklas, DeKalb city manager
tax for building materials,” Nicklas said.
The deal, as approved, allows for a 10-year arrangement for sharing or distributing hotel-motel tax, with payment of revenue to the company payable at
90% the first year, 80% the second year, 70% the third year, 60% the fourth year, and 50% every year thereafter until the deal expires. The maximum payment over 10 years would not be allowed to exceed $2 million over the life of the agreement, according to city documents.
“The motel tax would be paid solely from this particular hotel complex’s revenues, not generally across the city from other facilities,” Nicklas said.
After reaching a consensus on this topic at a council meeting last month, DeKalb city leaders last week voted unanimously in favor of establishing the hotel-motel tax-sharing agreement. Second Ward Alderwoman Barb Larson was absent.
Photo provided by Northern Illinois University
In 71 North, NIU Huskieverse students will demonstrate various applications of Virtual Reality simulations they’ve developed as class projects.
Hy-Vee, others throw support behind theater after vandalism
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
After dozens of seats were damaged at Sycamore State Theater in what was described by theater owners as an act of vandalism, the historic downtown spot has partnered with Hy-Vee to raise funds for new seats.
The owner of Sycamore State Theater, Makie Maratos, shared a picture of damaged theater chairs in a Facebook post on Aug. 27. The pictures appeared to show the tops of arm rests that had been ripped off the seats inside the theater.
“Unfortunately, [Aug. 23] we experienced an act of vandalism that has been part of a slow escalation over time,” Maratos wrote in the post.
Days after the post about damaged chairs, a fundraiser was held by Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity at the Hy-Vee gas station located at 2700 DeKalb Ave. to support the Sycamore State Theater’s remodeling efforts.
Maratos alluded to those efforts in an update to his business’ social media post. He isn’t looking to only use fundraiser money to support the
theater, however.
“We are currently working to invest a large sum into improving the theater – including brand new seating – to make your movie experience even better,” Maratos wrote. “But setbacks like this create real hardship as we work toward those goals.”
The building that houses the State Theater has been a part of Sycamore culture for a century, having first shown films to a public audience in November 1925.
Although the space hasn’t always been a movie theater, it has remained a fixture of Sycamore’s downtown iconography. That, in part, is why the Sycamore City Council authorized the painting of a mural on the building’s west-facing wall this spring.
Maratos, in the Facebook post, said he wants the theater to remain open to the public.
“As a locally owned and operated family business, we are fully committed to keeping the theater open and thriving for everyone to enjoy,” Maratos wrote. “We are deeply grateful to our amazing employees who work hard to repair this damage.”
NPR host to join NIU lecture series
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Northern Illinois University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will begin its 2025-2026 Rebuilding Democracy Lecture Series season with a discussion featuring NPR Morning Edition host and journalist Steve Inskeep.
The free lecture will begin at 7 p.m. Sept. 23 online via Zoom. Registration is required and is due Sept. 23. To register, visit go.niu.edu/Rebuilding-Democracy-RSVP.
The lecture will feature a discussion between Inskeep and Dean Robert Brinkmann covering topics such as freedom of the press, democracy’s current state, the civil discourse breakdown and media’s role in democracy. The lecture also includes a moderated question and answer session.
Inskeep is the host of NPR’s Morning Edition and “Up First” morning news
podcast. He has reported economic shifts, geopolitics and human migration stories globally. Inskeep is the author of the books “Instant City: Life and Death in Karachi,” “Jacksonland” and “Differ If We Must: How Lincoln Succeeded in a Divided America.” He has been a guest on “Meet the Press,” “This Week” and “PBS NewsHour.”
Inskeep also is a contributor to The New York Times, Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal and The Atlantic. He is a recipient of the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award and several Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Silver Batons for broadcast journalism excellence.
The Rebuilding Democracy Lecture Series showcases how the liberal arts and sciences are at the center of a healthy democracy. The series addresses various aspects of building a stronger democracy and bringing together a fractured society.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Sycamore library group to hold used book sale Sept. 26 and 27
The Friends of the Sycamore Library will host a used book sale to support the library’s facilities, services and resources.
The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 26 and 27 at the library, 103 E. State St.
Prices range from 25 cents to $3. A buy-one-get-one sale will be held Sept. 27. Accepted forms of payment include credit cards, cash and debit cards.
The Friends of the Sycamore Library is a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the library.
For information, email friendsofthesycamorelibrary@gmail.com.
DeKalb library group to hold silent auction Sept. 21
The Friends of the DeKalb Public Library will hold an autographed first edition and fine-condition books silent auction to support the library’s materials, programs and books.
The event will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sept. 21 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
The auction will feature adult and children books signed by the authors and illustrators. The auction also features refreshments, a children’s craft table and books available to buy.
Winners will be announced after the bidding ends at 3:30 p.m. Bidders must be present to win. Accepted forms of payment include credit card, cash and check.
For information, visit dkpl.org.
Be the One walk to end veteran suicide returns to DeKalb Sept. 21
The second annual Be the One walk to bring awareness to and end veteran suicide deaths will return to DeKalb on Sept. 21 and the public is invited.
The event will feature speakers, vendors to share mental wellness and crisis care resources, and other activities before the walk, which will be 2.2 miles to mark the statistics that 22 veterans or service members die by suicide daily.
People can register in advance at runsignup.com/Race/IL/Dekalb/BeTheOneWalk or day-of.
Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the event goes from 10 a.m. through noon at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Health and Wellness Center, 626 Bethany Road, DeKalb.
The event is hosted by the American Legion Post No. 66.
The walk is on asphalt pathways and sidewalks. There’s also a 1-mile circuit as an option for those who can’t or don’t wish to walk the full amount.
– Shaw Local News Network
Kelsey Rettke file photo
Sycamore State Theater, 420 W. State St. in downtown Sycamore, is seen May 16.
AMUSEMENTS
CLASSIFIED REGIONAL EDITOR
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