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DeKalb named ‘Purple Heart City’
DeKalb County also recognized as ‘Purple Heart County’
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
The city and county of DeKalb were recently recognized for their efforts in honoring military personnel wounded or killed in action, according to a news release.
A pair of proclamations issued recently were among the criteria needed in order to qualify as a Purple Heart City or County.
They also have to have Purple Heart recipients among their residents, establish roads or signs honoring recipients, and offer symbolic or practical benefits, according to the release.
“When local veteran patriot Michael Embrey approached the County about supporting a proposal of honoring Purple Heart veterans, the county board leadership immediately said yes,” DeKalb County Clerk Tasha Sims said in the release. “This program adds another support element to our ‘DeKalb County Veteran Honor Roll’ program.”
The county’s Veterans Honor Roll program is an initiative aimed at honoring the men and women who have made sacrifices in service to the country, according to the county’s website. Local veterans’ names may be added to a roll maintained by the county clerk. The veteran’s name also may be added to the Honor Roll plaque that’s located outside of the Veterans Assistance Commission in DeKalb, according to the
PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzlesonpage17
county’s website.
The goal behind becoming a Purple Heart City or County is simple: to honor and show respect for military personnel wounded or killed in action. Project leaders said one such criterion for consideration was to adopt a resolution or proclamation to help make it happen.
“We were more than excited to be part of this outstanding recognition of some of our military veterans,” DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes said in the release. “In the near future, our goal is to add signage to let visitors know our commitment to our local Purple Heart veterans.”
The project stems from one of DeKalb’s own, Jerry “Jug” Johnson, who is a Purple Heart recipient.
The Purple Heart, the nation’s oldest military medal, is an honor awarded to members of the armed forces who were either wounded in war or posthumously to next of kin in memory of those who have either died of wounds received in combat
or died in combat.
The predecessor to the Purple Heart medal, established in 1782, was originally known as the Badge of Military Merit and was made of cloth, according to the release.
That was first awarded to three soldiers in Newburgh, New York.
By 1932, the design of the current Purple Heart medal was developed by Gen. Douglas MacArthur and created by Elisabeth Will, an Army heraldic specialist in the Office of the Quartermaster General, according to the release.
The medal consists of metal and is characterized by the shape of a purple heart trimmed in gold, with Washington’s bust in the center and Washington’s coat-ofarms at the top.
An announcement will be made at a future City Council meeting, and DeKalb County will make one of its own during a special 250th American Anniversary program to be held July 8 on the Courthouse lawn in Sycamore.
DeKalb School District 428
Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez reads aloud a farewell letter on Tuesday, June 16, during her final board meeting. Incoming Superintendent Billy Hueramo will take over on July 1.
See story, page 6.
CORRECTIONS
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Photo by Megann Horstead
Shaw Local file photo
A Welcome to the City of DeKalb sign can be seen along Route 38.
Pizza Villa to host America’s Best Restaurants
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Pizza Villa in DeKalb will host an on-site visit from national media and marketing company America’s Best Restaurants as part of the ABR Roadshow.
The visit will take place July 1 at the restaurant, 824 W. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb.
The visit will highlight the restaurant and feature an interview with Pizza Villa owner and chef CJ Finn about the restaurant’s place in the community. America’s Best Restaurant spotlights locally owned restaurants from across the country that make a positive community impact.
“We’re honored to be featured by America’s Best Restaurants; our goal has been to serve the best pizza since 1956, and we have been doing it for 70 years strong!” CJ Finn said in a news release.
The ABR Roadshow episode includes Pizza Villa menu items such as the nugget sampler, broasted chicken and Pizza Villa special pizza. The episode will air on America’s Best Restaurants website and social media channels at a later date. The ABR Roadshow episode premiere date will also be announced on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
For information, visit pizzavilla. com or AmericasBestRestaurants. com.
Pizza Villa was established by Larry, Joe and Don Finn in 1956, and has been family-owned since 1968. The restaurant transitioned ownership to John Finn and is operated by CJ Finn. Pizza Villa moved to its current location in 1970. The restaurant participates in community events, donates food to homeless shelters, and supports churches, sports teams and local schools.
Mark Busch file photo
John Finn (left) and his son, CJ, co-owners of Pizza Villa, are seen behind the bar Jan. 26 at Pizza Villa on Lincoln Highway in DeKalb. The restaurant will host an on-site visit from national media and marketing company America’s Best Restaurants on July 1.
Kishwaukee Valley Art League events set for July
Group to take part in Turning Back Car Show in downtown Sycamore
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Kishwaukee Valley Art League will host several programs and events in July at Gallery on State in Sycamore.
The league’s next general meeting is set for 7 p.m. July 2 at the gallery at 322 W. State St. Attendees can participate in a “Create With KVAL” session honoring “250 Years of America” and explore patriotic art themes.
The Second Saturday Art Workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 11 at Gallery on State.
KVAL will participate in the Turning Back Time Car Show on July 26 in downtown Sycamore. Visitors can engage in art activities and receive information at the league’s booth.
The league’s Young Picasso’s Sum-
mer Art Program runs through July. Attendees can create original art pieces to win monetary prizes. A winner from three age groups will be selected. An art supplies table will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays at the gallery. Children ages 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Larry Bond is KVAL’s featured artist of the month for July. Bond’s watercolor artwork uses color and light to capture landscapes and everyday moments. His art pieces are on display at Gallery on State and are available for purchase.
The league recently unveiled its latest art collection, which includes various works such as paintings, sculptures, photography and mixed-media installations.
KVAL will be accepting submissions for its “In Living Color” juried art show. Artists can submit work that embraces color, including photography, jewelry, sculpture, painting, and 2D and 3D pieces.
For information, stop in at Gallery on State.
for July.
Photo provided by the Kishwaukee Valley Art League
This watercolor was painted by Larry Bond, Kishwaukee Valley Art League’s Artist of the Month
Outgoing D428 superintendent bids farewell
Incoming superintendent
Billy Hueramo to lead district beginning July 1
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
In a farewell speech last week, outgoing Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez centered on her commitment to serving students in her role as DeKalb School District 428’s top education official, a post she’s held since 2021.
“To our students, you have been the reason for every early morning, every late night, every challenge, every celebration,” Garcia-Sanchez said. “You are the heart of this district and the promise of the future. As I close this chapter, I do so with confidence and the work that will continue because the mission is larger than any one individual.”
At the time, her appointment made her the first woman and the second person of color to hold the position since the early 2000s, when Brian Ali was in the role.
“Over the years, I have learned that leadership is not measured by title, building awards or headlines,” Garcia-Sanchez said. “Leadership is measured by whether our decisions improve the lives of students who depend on us.”
Garcia-Sanchez said she believes DeKalb schools are in good hands.
“I leave this district optimistic because I have witnessed the extraordinary commitment of our teachers, our support staff, administrators, families and community partners,” she said. “I have seen people choose service over convenience and purpose over personal interests. That spirit is what makes DeKalb special.”
During her final board meeting on June 16, Garcia-Sanchez received a gift and flowers in recognition of her service to the district.
On July 1, Billy Hueramo, the district’s director of teaching and learning for elementary, is expected to take over as superintendent of DeKalb schools.
Board members react
Here’s a look at what some board members had to say about Garcia-Sanchez’s farewell speech.
Board President Chris Boyes said he appreciated what Garcia-Sanchez had to say in her remarks.
“I think Minerva’s speech was really good,” Boyes said. “It reminded us all of the reason that we all serve in the capacities that we do: to take care of students.”
Board Vice President Nick Atwood praised Garcia-Sanchez for her leadership.
“She’s a fierce advocate for the kids,” he said. “It’s all in the speech. It’s all about the kids, and that’s what it should be.”
Atwood said he’s had a positive working relationship with Garcia-Sanchez.
“Personally, she was always very available to me as a board member whenever I had questions,” Atwood said. “She was happy to meet with me. We met on a number of occasions.”
Board member Mark Charvat said it’s clear that Garcia-Sanchez came off as an impassioned educator.
“She was very focused on students, which is absolutely the right thing,” Charvat said. “She has a passion for doing what’s best for students. I’m glad that she focused on students and our kids in the schools throughout her final remarks.”
In August 2025, Garcia-Sanchez announced plans not to renew her contract with the district, about three months after the school board amended her employment contract to include 278
additional sick days.
Between her final school board meeting on June 16 and the Aug. 19, 2025, school board meeting where she announced that she would not be renewing her contract, Garcia-Sanchez missed only two regular school board meetings, both for district-related travel reasons, officials said.
Boyes said he was aware of the board meeting absences.
“Those were already pre-planned conferences that Minerva had to attend that the board was aware of, even before we weren’t renewing,” Boyes said.
Atwood said he wasn’t surprised to see how few board meetings Garcia-Sanchez missed.
“I never got any indication from her that she would be phoning it in or anything like that,” Atwood said. “She’s always been one to take on responsibility. She was responsible for this district and is responsible for it until the last day of her contract. I never even thought for a second that she wouldn’t be a complete professional as she has been this entire time.”
Garcia-Sanchez’s last day on the job is anticipated to be June 30, district documents show.
Boyes said he will miss Garcia-Sanchez and her leadership.
“I think one of the things I’m going to
miss most is that Minerva was always a very honest and direct person,” Boyes said. “I’m going to miss having someone that I can trust and have there.”
But Boyes said he is excited to have Hueramo stepping in as superintendent.
“I think that this is going to show that we in DeKalb love to invest in our own,” he said. “He started as a student-teacher with us, and now, he’s moved all the way up to superintendent, which just shows we have a great talent pool here that we can build.”
Atwood shared that sentiment.
“He has a really unique insight, having spent his whole career in District 428,” Atwood said. “He’s a good man. He’s a family man. He’s got a very strong academic background, having been the director of teaching and learning.”
Charvat said he believes everything is going to move forward smoothly with Hueramo.
“He’s understanding what the board’s concerns are,” Charvat said. “Billy is very much willing to listen, which I’m glad that he has an open ear, even before he’s become superintendent. That’s one advantage of having him on staff already. He knows the feel of the board. He knows what the board is expecting. There’ll be further expectations, obviously, once he takes his position coming up in a few weeks.”
Mark Busch file photo
DeKalb School District 428 Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez discusses the results of the 2023 Illinois State Board of Education report card Nov. 1, 2023, in her office in DeKalb. In August 2025, Garcia-Sanchez announced plans not to renew her contract. Her last day on the job is expected to be June 30.
Lincoln Highway mural taking shape in DeKalb
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Work on a new mural celebrating DeKalb’s place along Lincoln Highway is underway.
Painting of the mural began June 9 at the northwest corner of Lincoln Highway and Seventh Street.
The mural commemorates Lincoln Highway, the Declaration of Independence and President Abraham Lincoln. The project is part of the America250 DeKalb initiative.
The mural was selected by the City of DeKalb’s Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission.
The design features New York and San Francisco at the mural’s opposite ends. The mural also celebrates Lincoln Highway’s achievement of connecting the nation. The mural design was created by Kirsten Sandlin.
Community input also was incorporated into the mural’s final design. The input includes the city of DeKalb’s historic arches and a 1913 Stevens-Duryea automobile. The location’s original mural was destroyed after its mounting failed.
The mural’s creation is expected to last a minimum of two weeks. The project is partially supported by an Illinois Arts Council grant.
DeKalb County United to offer youth soccer clinic July 11
DeKalb County United will offer a youth soccer clinic for children ages 5 to 13 at WNIJ Hola’s Familia Fest.
The free clinic will be from 10 to 11:30 a.m. July 11 at DeKalb Kiwanis Park, 391 Fairview Drive.
Participants can practice passing, dribbling and teamwork. The clinic also includes a dribbling, juggling and passing showcase. Registration is required. To register, visit northernpublicradio.org/
familiafest.
Attendees also are invited to participate in Familia Fest.
Familia Fest features a car show, English and Spanish children’s storytime, bounce house, touch-a-tractor event, adult soccer tournament, United Elite MMA Demo, STEAM activities and Dimensions Dance Academy and musician performances. Food will be offered by local food trucks. For information, visit northernpublicradio.org/familiafest.
Photo provided by the City of DeKalb
Work on a new mural celebrating DeKalb’s place along Lincoln Highway is underway.
Kish College students earn essay contest accolades
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Kishwaukee College recently named Woodfin Billingsly as the 2026 Paul Simon Student Essay Contest winner and Alanna Nelson as the 2026 Gandhi/King Peace Scholarship recipient.
The students were awarded scholarships and achievement certificates at the college’s Board of Trustees May meeting.
Billingsly’s essay, titled “How my community college changed my life,” chronicles Billingsly’s health issues journey and how Kishwaukee College provided education advancement and career path discovery resources and support.
“Through Kish, I learned how to advocate for myself and my disabilities, what interests me in the world, and how to love life again,” Billingsly wrote in the essay, according to a news release. “I’ve met many people who have become friends and a part of my community, which I never would have been able to have without attending Kishwaukee College.”
Billingsly said the essay’s prompt was relatable and a way to express that it is never too late to make a change for the better.
“The Paul Simon Student Essay Contest had a subject that I felt I could strongly answer without exaggerating my viewpoint or feeling boxed in,” Billingsly said in the release. “Community college has genuinely changed my life in an irrevocable way.”
Billingsly plans on graduating with an Associate in Science degree in Spring 2027. Billingsly also intends to earn an environmental studies degree from Northern Illinois University.
Gandhi/King Peace Scholarship participants wrote an essay outlining a nonviolent response plan to discrimination and hate based on the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi.
Nelson’s essay proposed the creation of structured campus gatherings for students to meet, discuss and build differing points of view into an understanding.
“As a community, we have more in common than we sometimes realize. If we intentionally create spaces where
we teach respectful engagement, the campus can become an example of what nonviolent leadership looks like. In a divided nation, that example matters,” Nelson wrote in the essay, according to the release.
Drawing on her time as a student at Kish, Nelson said she felt the essay’s prompt was closely related to experiences she has had inside and outside the classroom.
“As a nontraditional student, I have had the opportunity to interact with people from many backgrounds, age groups, and perspectives,” Nelson also said in the release. “The prompt felt real to me, not just theoretical, and I wanted to speak on that from a place of lived experience.”
She is pursuing an Associate of Science degree and will join the college’s nursing program during the fall semester. Nelson plans on working as a registered nurse and pursuing further education.
The essays were forwarded to the Illinois Community College Trustees Association to be entered into the statewide Paul Simon Student Essay and Gandhi/King Peace Scholarship competitions.
To read the essays, visit kish.edu/ iccta.
Photo provided by Kishwaukee College Kishwaukee College president Laurie Borowicz, Woodfin Billingsly and Kishwaukee College board of trustees chair Bob Johnson
LOOKING BACK
1926 – 100 YEARS AGO
Receiving peas from all nine farm stations and running today for the first time all four canning lines at the factory, the Midwest Canneries Inc., located east of DeKalb, is gradually working toward 100% production. Working with new help, breaking in new foremen, and adjusting machinery just installed has been a task that would tax any organization. Last Sunday, the first peas of the season were canned and one line after another was tested and adjusted so that continuous operating could be obtained when the peck load of the season had to be met.
Radio fans of DeKalb yesterday had the opportunity of hearing Crown Prince Gustavus Adolphus, who gave a short talk broadcast from Mooseheart, WJJD. Reports are that the talk was most interesting, and the Crown Prince has a Swedish brogue mixed with a Cockney accent, the combination being interesting to hear.
Ed Milledge, building moving contractor of Sycamore, who recently moved a house a distance of 12 blocks in less than four hours, is making excellent progress on the removal of the Kaiser Brothers near Seventh Street on Girard. The large building was moved to the middle of the street yesterday, and the contractor hoped to get it onto the new foundation sometime tomorrow or early Saturday morning.
Motorists who have used the Lincoln Highway east of DeKalb and who have crept up to the curve just west of the North Western tracks on the Highway, afraid that another car will be shooting around the bend, will be glad to learn that the hill has been cut away and motorists are now able to have a clear view of the road. The work of cutting away the hill has been in progress for several days, and the improvement is one that is worthy of commendation. Northwestern workmen have installed new wig-wag signals at the intersection of the North Western tracks and the highway, which are of a later design than those used before.
There is a lack of kindling wood at Annie’s Woods, and tourists who stop there for a night have difficulty in finding
The state this week handed Sycamore School District an estimated $1 million for a new junior high school.
Plans for a new triplex theater near Hillcrest Drive and Blackhawk on DeKalb’s northwest side were examined last week by contractors, developers and others.
Gene Rourke couldn’t fit the homemade Bicentennial birthday card he envisioned in the mailbox, so he did the next best thing. He painted it on his garage door. The 200th anniversary greeting can be seen at Rourke’s home at 110 Pooler Ave.
material with which to fire the furnaces for cooking purposes. One prominent man of the city suggested today that it would be highly appreciated if some of the merchants would send down empty boxes that might be used for kindling.
1951 – 75 YEARS AGO
A campaign to secure funds for the purchase of a new fire truck for the DeKalb Mutual Fire District will get underway on Monday of the coming week. All of the home and land owners in the district will be solicited and contributions toward the fund will be sought. A new truck is needed to replace the present one, which is 21 years old and outmoded.
A bill providing for an appropriation for the construction of a new bridge on Lucinda Avenue in DeKalb over the Kishwaukee River cleared another hurdle Friday in the Legislature when it passed in the House.
This morning, a number of residents enjoyed an incident that took place in front of the DeKalb fire station on North Fourth Street. A circus truck, southbound, had stalled in front of the fire station and was blocking traffic. Ordinarily, this would necessitate the summoning of a tow truck, but not in this case. From another circus truck, “Lizzie,” an elephant, was summoned, and after giving the stalled vehicle a push and getting it started, returned to its own truck, and the trip
south was resumed. “Lizzie’s” performance was not the first time it had been called upon for such service.
Sycamore Lodge 1506, Loyal Order of Moose, this week joined the steadily expanding program providing wheelchairs and invalid vehicles for handicapped persons throughout DeKalb County. The lodge donated a chrome, portable-type wheelchair to the DeKalb project in a presentation ceremony at the fire station. The chairs, attachments and invalid vehicles are owned by the city of DeKalb. They are made available free of charge to anyone in the county.
Automobile traffic over the Great Western tracks on Seventh Street has resumed after a period while repairs were being made to these crossings. The barricades have been removed, and the street will remain open until such time as the blacktopping work on North Seventh is started, which is expected in the fall.
1976 – 50 YEARS AGO
The state Fire Marshall has given DeKalb County until July 5 to remedy 29 violations at the DeKalb County Jail.
A huge bin on the grounds of DicKen Grain Corp., Sycamore, is just part of new facilities for storage, custom drying and distribution of grain for the company. The bin is one of the largest available, measuring 77 feet in diameter and holding 266,000 bushels.
Northern Illinois University’s new $12 million library, Founders Memorial, is a library without bookshelves. Unless a lawsuit involving the two lowest bidders for the library’s shelf job is settled within a few weeks, the library probably will not open until May 1977.
2001 – 25 YEARS AGO
History was a central theme of this year’s Baron DeKalb Day, with a plethora of events marking the occasion at a number of locations around the community. At Northern Illinois University, a country school fair was conducted on the grounds of the Milan Township one-room schoolhouse. A large crowd was on hand throughout the day, which featured demonstrations of historical crafts, music, food and activities in the school itself.
DeKalbflights.com recently introduced its new online travel booking service. Area residents can price, shop and book flights online, choose specific airline seats, hotel room locations and other amenities, and look for local specials and packages backed by travel agent service.
The popularity of alternative sports such as skateboarding and inline skating is on the rise among youths and some young adults. The only problem is, where does one go when there is no place to participate in these activities? Skateboards, bicycles and inline skates are not allowed on downtown sidewalks in Genoa, DeKalb and Sycamore. However, the Genoa Park District has its own skate park to provide an alternative area for skaters.
– Compiled by Sue Breese
Photo provided by DeKalb County History Center Archives
The University Center parking lot (now Holmes Student Center’s Martin Luther King Jr. Commons) is pictured in 1970, looking east toward homes facing Normal Road in DeKalb.
Arts in Action photography exhibit opens June 27
By SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – Arts in Action: “The Power of Place,” a photography exhibit featuring works by Jayla Trenyce, will open June 27 with a public reception at the Ellwood House Museum.
Arts in Action began in 2020 as the Ellwood House Museum and DeKalb County History Center committed to shifting the local history narrative from a predominantly white experience to a more inclusive and accurate account, specifically acknowledging the missing Black and Latino voices.
The exhibit explores how physical locations hold deep meaning, carrying traces of historical events and family memories. Trenyce’s works focus on DeKalb’s Pleasant Street and Sycamore’s North Avenue neighborhoods, which she documents through a series
of 10 photographs.
“Through portraiture and environmental imagery, I investigate how communities create belonging, preserve cultural memory, and maintain visibility… [challenging] dominant narratives while honoring the resilience and presence of marginalized communities,” Trenyce said in a news release.
Trenyce is a Chicago-based graduate of Northern Illinois University and founder of Kindred Noir, an organization that seeks to empower and support Black and underserved artists.
A public reception will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. June 27 at Ellwood House Museum, 420 Linden Place in DeKalb. Parking is available on-site.
Arts in Action is funded by a grant from Healing Illinois, which is funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services in partnership with The Field Foundation of Illinois.
Photo provided by the Ellwood House Museum
“The Finely Family” is part of a photography exhibit titled “The Power of Place,” featuring works by Jayla Trenyce, opening this month at the Ellwood House Museum in DeKalb.
Sycamore schools hires first chief operating officer
strong relationships with families and community members,” Bell said in a news release.
administrative and district-level systems.”
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
An Oswego School District 308 assistant superintendent will become the first chief operating officer for Sycamore schools.
Sycamore School District 427 officials announced Jeremy Bell as the hire on June 11, after the Sycamore school board approved his two-year contract June 9. He will make $187,500 for the 2026-27 school year, district documents show.
Bell, who has more than 20 years of educational experience, including some in Sycamore, said he was honored to take on the new job.
“I am passionate about serving students, supporting staff and building
The night Bell was approved, the school board also authorized the hiring of Svetlana Popovic, a principal of a La Grange School District 105 elementary school, who will become Sycamore’s director of learning and teaching for elementary school students.
Bell and Popovic’s hirings coincide with a reorganization of the district’s administrative structure, which includes the creation of the district’s first chief operating officer and chief academic officer positions.
In a provided statement, Sycamore Superintendent Kristen Campbell highlighted the coming-home moment Bell’s hiring represents for his career.
“In a meaningful full-circle journey, Jeremy actually began his career right here in our community at Sycamore Middle School,” Campbell said. “His career trajectory showcases a steady rise through increasingly complex
It’s also a reunion for Campbell and Bell. Before becoming Sycamore superintendent on March 1, Campbell most recently worked as assistant superintendent of high schools for Oswego School District 308. Bell finished the 2025-26 school year as assistant superintendent of student services for Oswego schools.
Now, Bell will work to provide leadership and oversight to the Sycamore systems while helping ensure the district’s actions align with its mission to serve students and families.
Campbell said Bell’s professional background and personal connection to Sycamore made him uniquely qualified to lead the district’s business and operational infrastructure.
“I look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside this incredible community to ensure every decision reflects our shared commitment to students,” Bell said.
Photo provided by Sycamore Community School District 427
The Sycamore School District 427 school board voted June 9 to hire Jeremy Bell as the district’s first chief operating officer.
VAC of Northern Illinois appoints new executive director
The Board of Directors of Voluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois has named its new executive director.
Rick Burchell will serve as the organization’s next executive director beginning July 1.
Burchell will head up VAC’s ongoing operations in DeKalb County, as well as in Kendall, LaSalle, Bureau and Putnam counties.
Nate Kloster informed the Board of Directors in September of his intention to step down from the executive director position and retire this summer, VAC said in a news release.
Kloster will remain with the organization through the end of July, working closely with Burchell as he assumes his new responsibilities.
The Board of Directors engaged in a “comprehensive succession planning process, including an evaluation of the Executive Director position and the organization’s senior management structure to ensure continued leadership and organizational success,” according to the release.
Burchel, a DeKalb resident, brings a strong administrative and leadership background to the organization, VAC said.
His professional experience includes serving as principal of Kaneland Middle School for eight years and director of the Fox Valley Career Center for 14 years, according to the release.
The Voluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois provides services to the community, ranging from Meals on Wheels delivery to transportation needs.
Ellwood
House to unveil public artwork June 27 and 28
DeKALB – The DeKalb County History Center and Ellwood House Museum will unveil two new public artworks this month as part of their collaborative Arts in Action project.
Arts in Action began in 2020 as the museums committed to shifting the local history narrative from a predominantly white experience to a more inclusive and accurate account, specifically acknowledging the missing Black and Latino voices.
With grant funding from Healing Illinois, the museums have gathered community
input and worked with artists to recognize important locations in DeKalb County for Black and Latino residents. A historic sign in Sycamore’s North Avenue highlights the neighborhood as an enduring place for fellowship, work and worship. In DeKalb’s Third Ward/Pleasant Street neighborhood, a sign and sculpture by artist Alex Mendez reflect on the area’s long history as a welcoming home to immigrant families, from Finnish residents in the days of barbed wire to the predominantly Latino community today.
A public unveiling for the Sycamore sign will be held at 10 a.m. June 27 at the corner of California Street and North Avenue.
The DeKalb artwork will be unveiled at 1 p.m. June 28 in Liberty Park, 1099 Lewis St.
Healing Illinois is funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services in partnership with The Field Foundation of Illinois. Public art in DeKalb is supported by the DeKalb Park District and City of DeKalb, and the Sycamore Parks Foundation helped fund the sign on North Avenue.
Waterman
church to host ice cream social July 1
The Waterman United Methodist Church will host an ice cream social for community members in July.
The free social will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. July 1 at Waterman Lions Park, 435 S. Birch St.
The social features the Vaughn Faye Farms Petting Zoo. Wagon rides will be provided by Vaughn Faye Farms and the Nielsen Family Belgian Draft Horses.
For information, visit watermanumc. org or the church’s Facebook page.
IVT names 2026 Mimi Bryan Memorial Scholarship recipients
The Indian Valley Theatre recently named Hannah Barngrover, Addison King, Victoria Schultz and Ava Warner as the recipients of the 2026 IVT Mimi Bryan Memorial Scholarship.
The $500 scholarships were presented during the senior awards nights at the recipients’ high schools.
The students participated in theater and fine arts-related activities. Recipients were selected for volunteerism, grades, leadership, determination, dedication and focus on goals.
Barngrover is majoring in pastoral studies. King will study nursing. Schultz plans to major in theater and drama. Warner intends to study accounting.
Mimi Bryan was a founding member of the Indian Valley Theatre. Bryan was active both on stage and behind the scenes at the theater. She was instrumental in giving actors a chance to perform and bringing community theater to the Fox Valley area.
The Indian Valley Theatre is a nonprofit dedicated to the appreciation and development of the performing arts in the Fox Valley area.
Sycamore hires La Grange-area principal to fill admin role
The principal of a La Grange School District elementary school will be Sycamore’s next director of learning and teaching for elementary school students.
Svetlana Popovic, who has more than 15 years of experience working in education leadership roles, will start her new job on July 1, after leaving her position as principal of Hodgkins Elementary School in southwest suburban Hodgkins.
Popovic’s job was created out of a restructuring of the district’s administrative office. Starting the 2026-2027 school year, the district transformed the jobs of director of instructional technology and director of learning and teaching into the director of learning and teaching for elementary school students and another director for middle and high school students.
Phoebe Balentyne, the director of instructional technology, will become the director of learning and education for middle school and high school students, documents show. As of Tuesday, Michael Rice remains listed as the director of learning and teaching on the district’s website.
The Sycamore school board approved her contract during a special board meeting on June 9.
Popovic is pursuing a doctoral degree in school leadership and holds a Master of Education in Reading and an Educational Specialist degree in Administration and Supervision from National Louis University, according to a news release.
– Shaw Local News Network
New fund supports DeKalb Festival Chorus
By SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The DeKalb Festival Chorus Endowment Fund has been established through the DeKalb County Community Foundation.
Created by Amanda Durik and David Castro, the fund provides enduring financial support for DeKalb Festival Chorus while honoring the memory of Amanda’s parents, Mary Rowley and George Durik.
“Mary was a hummer, and George was a whistler,” Durik said in a news release. “Neither had formal training nor even much experience outside of singing in church, but they regularly made music around the house. The melodies they carried through ordinary moments brought joy, comfort and connection.”
Community choruses provide opportunities for people who love music to gather, develop their talents, and share in the experience of creating something meaningful together. While there was no community chorus in the area of
Kentucky where Mary and George raised their family, Amanda and David found that opportunity in DeKalb through the DeKalb Festival Chorus.
Founded in the mid-1970s, DeKalb Festival Chorus brings community members together to experience and
share the power of choral music. The fund honors that legacy while helping support the organization’s future.
“The DeKalb Festival Chorus has created a welcoming space for people to share their love of music and community,” Durik said in the release. “We
hope this fund helps sustain that opportunity well into the future.”
The DeKalb Festival Chorus Endowment Fund will provide long-term financial support for the chorus and its mission.
“We are honored to partner with Amanda and David in connecting their generosity with an organization they care deeply about,” DCCF executive director Dan Templin said in the release. “Funds like the DeKalb Festival Chorus Endowment Fund help provide long-term support for organizations whose funding can often be unpredictable.”
Donations to any fund at the Community Foundation, including the DeKalb Festival Chorus Endowment Fund, can be made online at dekalbccf. org/donate or mailed to the DeKalb County Community Foundation, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178.
For more information or to learn how to establish a charitable fund in memory of a loved one, visit dekalbccf. org or contact Dan Templin at 815-7485383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.
Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation
DeKalb Festival Chorus members celebrate the organization’s 50th anniversary.
Downtown Sycamore planters sponsored by Nancy Marchiando Memorial Fund
Marchiando once served as city clerk, volunteered with Pumpkin Festival
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
The Sycamore in Bloom planters found at two dozen locations across Sycamore have a financial sponsor.
The children of Nancy S. Marchiando, an avid supporter of Sycamore activities, festivals and special events, agreed to establish a fund to cover the cost of the Sycamore in Bloom planters, 1st Ward Alderwoman Alicia Cosky told Shaw Local.
“This fund, in partnership with the Beautification Committee, honors our mother’s passionate love for the City of Sycamore by beautifying the downtown area with seasonal floral creations,” the family wrote in a provided statement.
The Nancy Marchiando Memorial Fund is expected to cover the costs of the 24 planter boxes during the spring and fall each year, currently estimated at $1,200 annually, Cosky said. As a result, each planter will have a sign recognizing sponsorship.
“They have agreed to provide that annually, and as long as that does occur, then the project remains in memory of their mom, Nancy,” Cosky said.
Marchiando died at 59 on May 12, 2005, according to her obituary. She was once elected to a four-year term as the , worked for Family Service Agency and as an administrative assistant at Resource Bank, and owned and operated Marchiando Corner Market in Sycamore.
Marchiando, a member of Church of St. Mary’s in Sycamore, also served on the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Parade Committee and helped raise funds for the Sycamore Historical Society. She was also the director of the Miss Kishwaukee Scholarship Pageant, according to her obituary.
For the first year of the Sycamore in Bloom project, the beautification committee sought to recognize the businesses that volunteered to host the
planters. The next year, in 2025, the Sycamore High School students who created the metal wire stands that hold the planters in their welding class were thanked, Cosky said. Now, the Sycamore in Bloom planter program continues in honor of Marchiando.
Julie Roskuszka, one of Marchiando’s daughters, first reached out about creating a partnership with the city in September 2024, Cosky said. Although the planters weren’t the first idea from Marchiando’s family, Cosky said Sycamore City Manager Michael Hall suggested the flower program as a way for the family to honor their mother.
“We hope residents and visitors enjoy ‘Sycamore in Bloom’ and consider donating to the continued beautification of Sycamore, ‘Where Life Offers More,’” Marchiando’s family wrote in the provided statement.
At 2:30 p.m. Saturday, the family of Marchiando and members of the Syca -
more beautification committee will meet downtown to pose for a picture near a Sycamore in Bloom planter box.
Cosky said she thinks the program “instills a sense of community pride” and could cause motorists to stop and spend time in Sycamore when they pass through.
“It’s a way of building community spirit and really keeping our downtown area very vibrant, and colorful and free, so that it is attractive,” Cosky said. “Not only when residents come through, but also any visitors.”
Photos by Mark Busch
A flower box at the intersection of West State Street and Somonauk Street is seen June 17 in Sycamore.
Some of the flowers are seen June 17 in the planter at the intersection of West State Street and Somonauk Street in Sycamore.
Project Big Lakes in DeKalb sees initial support
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
A DeKalb commission, charged with reviewing planning and zoning matters, gave initial support to Project Big Lakes, a development being proposed on behalf of an unnamed company.
The development, if approved, would consist of a 186,040-square-foot building for a larger manufacturer of climate control and energy management systems with an additional 185,640 square feet to the east reserved for the potential expansion, according to the site plan.
Steve Miller, senior vice president of development services for VentureOne, elected not to name the company behind Project Big Lakes during a meeting on June 15.
VentureOne is a Rosemont-headquartered real estate private equity fund manager, developer and operating company working on behalf of the applicant, Park 88 Group LLC.
“We’re under [non-disclosure agreement,] so I can’t give a lot of information about it,” Miller said.
When asked how many employees the project could be expected to employ, Miller said it would be anywhere from 150 to 300 on-site.
Miller said project leaders are excited to get to work.
“As a [manufacturing] facility, they are looking to be operational next year,” Miller said.
In fact, City Planner Dan Olson said
OBITUARIES
LARRY F. JARRES
Born: June 1, 1943 in PITTSBURGH, PA
Died: December 15, 2025 in DEKALB, IL
Larry Francis Jarres passed away on December 15th, 2025 at the age of 82.
Larry was born on June 1st, 1943, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania to Raymond and Mary Jarres.
He married his wife Sheila on December 17th, 1966. Following the birth of their first son Damian, he moved the family to Illinois in 1969, settling in Sycamore and later, Dekalb. There they welcomed two more children, Trevor and
A developer wants city approval to build a 186,000-square-foot facility to house what the city described as “a large manufacturer of climate control and energy management systems,” according to an agenda for a public hearing Monday, June 15. City documents refer to the site as
the company would like to get up and running by July 2027.
Developers are looking to build on two lots totalling about 47 acres at the northeast corner of Fairview and Macom drives in the Park 88 Subdivision.
The applicant, Park 88 Group LLC, intends for Lot 1 to occupy about 25 acres along the south side of Macom Drive.
Lot 2 is meant to take up about 21
Courtney.
Larry and his Brother in law, Jerry Bejbl, purchased property, constructed a plant and opened their own business, Armoloy, in 1969. Finding success in the metal plating industry, they began franchising the business in the 1970s, and by 1990 had successfully launched three locations in Europe and ten in the United States. During this time, they also purchased the company Eloctrolizing in Rhode Island and launched a new company, Surftec Enterprises. Larry retired early, at the age of 55, and relocated with his wife Sheila to Florida where they enjoyed many years of sun and fun. Whether hosting dinner parties, upping his golf game or taking sunset rides on the motorcycle, he truly lived his best life.
A treasured father and grandfather, Larry is survived by his wife Sheila, three children, Da-
acres at the northeast corner of Fairview and Macom drives.
In the vicinity of the proposed project are existing warehouse distribution facilities for 3M and Target.
Developers need city approval for preliminary and final development plans, as well as a final plat of subdivision, city documents show.
City staff said before any permits may be issued, the petitioner will need to submit its engineering plans, land -
scape plans, and the recording of the final plat.
City staff said they recommend support for the petitioner’s request, and no objections were raised publicly during Monday’s meeting.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously backed the petitioner’s request in a 4-0 vote. The City Council will get to have the final say on the matter during its June 22 regular meeting.
mian, Trevor and Courtney and six grandchildren, Hunter, Nathan, Hampton, Virginia, Elijah and Josephine. Larry was a beloved uncle to his nieces and nephews, Kim, Skip, Mike, Tom, Michelle, Mike and Chris.
Friends, family and members of the community knew him as a coach and mentor who pushed you beyond what you thought you were capable of and celebrated every success with you. He was a goofy and joyous dad, grandfather and uncle, who could embarrass everyone but himself in public. He was a fantastic cook who loved to show off his talents by making any number of his favorite and signature dishes such as pancakes, sticky honey pork chops, savory bisques or perfectly cut and rolled Nut Horns. Undoubtedly, people will remember him most fondly as a master storyteller. When he settled in to tell a story, it
was always entertaining, perhaps embellished for theatrical effect, but never fictional. Whether amazing listeners with the fly and butterknife story, or proving to his audience that yes, he really could inconceivably and accurately guess heads or tales from a coin toss every time, his stories are those of legend. It is these and other stories he told and the memories of cherished time spent with him, that will keep him near and dear to our hearts as we bid him adieu.
A celebration of Larry’s life will be held on Saturday, June 20th, 2026 at Fatty’s Pub and Grille, 1312 W Lincoln Hwy, Dekalb, Il. 60115, at 5:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund: curealz.org For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.
Photo provided by City of DeKalb
“Project Big Lakes.”
AMUSEMENTS
Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale
The property will NOT be open for inspection.
Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
DEKALB COUNTY, ILLINOIS
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, PLAINTIFF, VS. KIRSTIN SHEPHE RD A/K/A
KIRSTIN MA SHEPERD; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS.
NO. 2025FC000119
414 SO UTH LOCUST STREET SYCAMORE, IL 60178 NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE UNDER ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on March 12, 2026, will on July 23, 2026 in 150 N. Main Street, Sycamore, IL 60178, at 1:00pm, sell at public auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singular, the fo llowing described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of DeKa lb, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment:
TAX NO. 06-32-476-003
COMMONLY KN OWN AS: 414 South Locust Street Sycamore IL 60178
Description of Improvements: Yellow vinyl siding, two unit building
The Judgment amount was $140,813.01.
Sale Terms: This is an "AS IS" sale for "CASH". The successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. NO REFUNDS
The subject property is subject to general real estate taxe s, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate, water bills, etc. and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to plaintiff The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the bid amount, 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 property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4)
IF YOU ARE THE MORT
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other han a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4) IF 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: Visit our website at http://ilforeclosuresales.mrpllc.com Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. only - McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP, Plaintiff's Attorneys, 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 60606-1220. Tel No (312) 346-9088 Please refer to file# 25-23464IL PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Plaintiff's attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sale I3283901 (MidWeek Jun. 17, 24, Jul 1, 2026)
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNTY, ILLINOIS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, PLAINTIFF, VS. KIRSTIN SHEPHE RD A/K/A KIRSTIN MA SHEPERD; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS. NO. 2025FC000119 414 SO UTH LOCUST STREET SYCAMORE, IL 60178 NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE UNDER ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on March 12, 2026, will on July 23, 2026 in 150 N. Main Street, Sycamore, IL 60178, at 1:00pm, sell at public auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singular, the fo llowing described
Dg
ON'S SUBDIVISIO N) TO SYCAMORE, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF
RECORDED IN BOOK "A" OF PLATS, PAGE 57, IN DEKALB COUNTY ILLINOIS.
TAX NO. 06-32-476-003
COMMONLY KN OWN AS:
414 South Locust Street Sycamore, IL 60178
Description of Improvements: Yellow vinyl siding two unit building
The Judgment amount was $140,813.01.
Sale Terms: This is an "AS IS" sale for "CASH". The suc-
The subject property is subject to
s, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate, water bills, etc. and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to plaintiff The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the bid amount, 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 property will NOT be open for inspection.
Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4)
IF 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.
CLAIMANTS, NDANTS. 2025F C000119 SO UT H LOCUST EET SYCAMORE, IL NOTICE OF SALE UANT TO JUDGMENT FORECLOSURE R ILLINOIS MORTFORECLOSURE ACT NOTICE IS HEREBY that pursuant to a ent of Foreclosure and tered by the Court in ve entitled cause on 12, 2026, will on 2026 in 150 N. Street, Sycamore, IL at 1:00pm, sell at auction and sale to est bidder for cash, singular, the fo llowscribed real estate ntioned in said Judgtuated in the County lb, State of Illinois, or thereof as shall be to satisfy said ent: IN BLOCK 1 OF S
For Information: Visit our website at http://ilforeclosuresales.mrpllc.com
Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. only - McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP, Plaintiff's Attorneys, 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 60606-1220. Tel No (312) 346-9088 Please refer to file# 25-23464IL
PURSUANT TO THE FAIR
DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Plaintiff's attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of
