DC_MidWeek_122723

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023 • S h awLoc al .co m

2023 YEAR IN REVIEW

Highlights of Midweek coverage / 6

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

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ON THE COVER A look back at the year that was. Stories featured in The MidWeek in 2023.

See story, page 6.

Shaw Local News Network file photos

Sycamore lowers property tax levy, plans to add 1 employee in 2024

By CAMDEN LAZENBY

clazenby@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – At the last meeting of the year, Sycamore City Council members voted in favor of a budget that would add one full-time employee next year and approved a smaller 2023 property tax levy extension.

The 2024 budget, totaling almost $24.4 million, was approved by a 7-0 vote.

According to city documents, the city projected the total revenue and funds transferred into the city’s coffers in 2024 will be $24,378,994, while the total projected expenditures is expected to be $24,375,922.

Both figures are about $1 million more than what the city projects the current eight-month budget would look like if it were done as a 12-month budget. The council approved the 2023 budget in May, as the city transitions to a fiscal year that coincides with the calendar year.

In a subsequent 7-0 vote, City Council members approved the 2023 property tax levy extension request for $3,785,960.

The total is similar to what the council originally approved in December 2022 for this year’s property tax levy; however, what city officials now are calling an “administrative issue” led to property owners being overtaxed by almost $120,000.

The 2024 Sycamore property tax levy rate was set at 0.621%, down from the 0.68% tax rate the City Council approved last year. According to DeKalb County documents, Sycamore residents in 2023 were levied property taxes at a 0.703% rate.

The money Sycamore property owners were taxed erroneously this year will be returned via rebate checks by Aug. 1.

PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzles on page 16

I think that it shows that we want to commit to open government and that what we said we were going to do last year we’re doing this year. We may have to go up next year – it all depends on what goes on in the city, and I’m not going to predict that. But I think this is a very good job.”

Chuck Stowe, Sycamore City Council City Manager Michael Hall said the taxation error was an “administrative issue” and that it forced the city to reconsider how to fund different departments.

“We really sat down and kind of looked at this. I must say, this all was a group effort,” Hall said. “We’re dropping that from what was collected from $120,000 to what it should be, as a balanced budget.

“And we achieved this balanced budget. This is the part where we all worked together by deferring some capital projects or budget items for one year. Everybody kind of felt the pain of this and agreed to it.”

According to city documents, the city’s full-time employee equivalent will increase by one full-time employee from the current budget in 2024. However, some departments will see cuts.

Next year, the number of full-time equivalent employees working for the Sycamore Fire Department will decrease by one. At the same time, the city’s Community Development Code Enforcement team will lose the equivalent of half a full-time worker.

The Public Works Department will lose the equivalent of one-third of a fulltime worker from its water and sewer departments, but it gained the equivalent of two-thirds of a worker for its

engineering department.

“I just appreciate the staff for taking a look at everything. Thank you for doing that,” 3rd Ward Alderwoman Nancy Copple said.

Although some departments lost workers, per se, others will gain personnel.

Sycamore police will add the equivalent of half a full-time worker, while the city’s human resources department will gain a full one.

Additionally, Hall said, the city will add an entirely new position in the coming year.

“There will be one position that’s going to be added. That community planner position will help with economic development [and] is going to be filled.

That’s in the budget right now as a balanced budget,” Hall said before the council voted.

Second Ward Alderman Chuck Stowe said he was happy with the work city officials put in to balance the budget while rectifying the overtaxation issue.

“I think that it shows that we want to commit to open government and that what we said we were going to do last year we’re doing this year,” Stowe said.

“We may have to go up next year – it all depends on what goes on in the city, and I’m not going to predict that. But I think this is a very good job.”

WHERE IT’S AT Amusements .........................................16 Classified ..........................................17-19 Cover story ............................................. 6 Looking Back .......................................... 9 Obituaries ..............................................12

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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.

By CAMDEN LAZENBY

clazenby@shawmedia.com DeKalb County motorists might know the intersection of Illinois Route 23 and Perry Road as not only a high-traffic stop, but the sight of deadly and severe crashes. The intersection’s reputation has caught DeKalb County Sheriff Andy Sullivan’s attention, too.

Molly Stoffa has lived at that intersection for 25 years and recently appealed to the DeKalb County Board to look into improved safety measures at the corner that has become known for deadly crashes. By her estimates, there have been at least 18 crashes at the intersection near her home since 2018.

“The most recent was fatal. It was a mother, a young mother who lost her life,” Stoffa said.

On Nov. 4, a 22-year-old woman died and three others, including a child, suffered injuries after a two-vehicle crash near the rural DeKalb County intersection south of DeKalb.

It’s a worrying trend at the intersection that has seen more than half a dozen crashes this year, Sullivan said.

On Oct. 7, three people, including a child, were hospitalized after a two-car crash at the corner. On Aug. 16, two people were hospitalized after their vehicles collided with each other at the same location.

Sullivan said he’s received concerns from residents about the intersection, too, likening the reaction to public calls for a safer Plank Road in Sycamore.

“I think maybe if you look back, a couple of years back there was a lot of talk of Plank Road,” Sullivan said.

“And then this year I’m looking actually, looking more in the area of Route 23 and Perry Road. We’ve had some crashes and obviously some concern from the public, and from my perspective as well, from the crashes at that intersection. I know that that’s an area

Camden Lazenby

Drivers on Perry Road waited for gaps in traffic along Route 23 to cross or turn onto the state highway on Dec. 19.

I’m focusing on right now, is Route 23 and Perry Road, to try and see what, if anything, could be done differently.”

Stoffa’s appeal to the County Board Dec. 13 was joined by multiple other residents who spoke during the public meeting on differnet matters but echoed verbal agreeemnt.

“I’m coming to the board tonight to ask you to please pay attention to this intersection,” Stoffa said. “Do something to improve the safety of the intersection on Perry Road. I understand that Route 23 is a state road, and that your hands are limited as far as what can be done, but I know that the County Board can put pressure on the state to do a traffic study and to improve the safety measures within this intersection.”

There are stop signs at the corner on the east and west ends of Perry Road. Traffic flows unabated through the intersection on Route 23, however.

From his analysis of the situation, Sullivan said he doesn’t think the crashes are a result of drivers failing to follow road signs, but the nature of the safety measures at the intersection.

“The person may stop at their stop

... I’m terrified of that intersection. I can’t tell you how many times my husband and I have had to go to that intersection to render aid to complete strangers who can’t even tell you their first name. Do better.”

Molly Stoffa sign but then they pull out in front of another vehicle, or they didn’t see that vehicle that was coming in the other direction that does not have a traffic control device, and that’s when the collision happens,” Sullivan said. “I think that’s the important thing, is for drivers to be aware when they’re leaving from a stop sign to to make sure it’s unobstructed and that there’s not another vehicle coming.”

The crashes aren’t a new ocurrence.

Two people had to be extricated from their vehicles by first responders in March 2018 and were taken by paramedics to Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital after a two-vehicle crash at Perry Road and Route 23.

Three others were hospitalized after a crash at the same location in October 2022.

Stoffa said she can’t remember how many times she’s tried to save the lives of strangers while waiting for emergency services to arrive on the scene of severe crashes.

She asked the DeKalb County Board to consider adding flashing lights and improved rumble strips to the intersection.

Stoffa also admitted her family drives scared through the corner nearest their home.

“I have young drivers, a 15-year-old and an 18-year-old who are terrified of that intersection,” Stoffa said. “I’m terrified of that intersection. I can’t tell you how many times my husband and I have had to go to that intersection to render aid to complete strangers who can’t even tell you their first name. Do better.”

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Deadly intersection under increased scrutiny

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

4

Kishwaukee College holds fall 2023 commencement SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

MALTA – More than 100 Kishwaukee College students graduated this month during the college’s fall 2023 commencement ceremony.

The ceremony, held Dec. 16, recognized graduates who earned associate degrees, certificates of completion, short-term training credentials and Illinois high school diploma credentials, according to a news release.

Overall, 257 students completed a program or certificate requirement for the fall 2023 semester.

Britney Calin, who graduated with an associate in applied science degree in hospitality and an associate in arts degree, served as the student speaker during the ceremony.

Calin offered advice on how to handle life’s obstacles without feeling overwhelmed.

“We’re all here today to celebrate our success. Let’s remember this day. I recommend to all of you that you take life one day at a time. Enjoy the ups.

Have patience with the downs. Because if you push through life too quickly, you will be missing out on some of the best memories,” Calin said during her address, according to the release.

Photo provided by Kishwaukee College

Kishwaukee College graduates pose for a photo at the college’s fall 2023 commencement ceremony Dec. 16. A total of 257 students applied to graduate and were eligible to participate in the ceremony.

Along with Calin, students heard remarks from Kishwaukee College President Laurie Borowicz; the college’s chairman of the Board of Trustees Bob Johnson; Vice President of Instruction Barbara Leach and Associate Professor of Mathematics Kyra Rider.

Rider, speaking on behalf of the college’s faculty, celebrated the gradu-

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ates’ accomplishments while wishing them well in their next steps.

“It amazes me that you can complete the rigors of college while working full time or multiple jobs, taking care of family members, and dealing with financial and emotional burdens.

You are incredible. And I hope this achievement brings you joy and future success,” Rider said during her

address, according to the release. “I hope during your time at Kish, you were able to grow and make new friendships. I know you have a strong education.”

The ceremony was livestreamed on Kish’s social media channels and website.

To view the ceremony, visit kish. edu/commencement.

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

DeKALB – The DeKalb County Community Gardens released a list of January locations for the Grow Mobile, a mobile food pantry that offers free food and household items to all who visit, no requirements necessary.

The DCCG is working to ensure the well-being of residents, staff and volunteers. Organizers ask that people practice good hand hygiene and stay home if they are ill.

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

Grow Mobile dates in January: • 3:30 to 5 p.m. Jan. 2 at the Clinton Township Community Building, 160 W. Lincoln Highway, Waterman • 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 4 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Scyamore library announces winter reading challenge

Sycamore Library will hold a winter reading challenge, an interactive program that will take place now through Feb. 23.

The program encourages reading and gives participants a chance to win badges and prizes.

Participants can track their progress through the Beanstack application or website, which hosts the winter reading software. Existing registrants need only log in to their account.

For more information and registration, visit sycamorelibrary.org/winter-reading-challenge or contact jillc@sycamorelibrary.org.

DeKalb library to host blood drive Dec. 30

DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will partner with Versiti Blood Centers to host a blood drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dec. 30 The event will be held in the lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Attendees are encouraged to eat a healthy meal and drink water. Photo

Road, DeKalb • 12:30 to 2 p.m. Jan. 9 at Family Service Agency, 1325 Sycamore Road, DeKalb • 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Cortland Lions Club Shelter, 70 S. Llanos St., Cortland • 11 a.m. to noon Jan. 11 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb • 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 16 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb • 3:30 to 5 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Malta Historical and Genealogical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta • 4 to 6 p.m. Jan. 23 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 340 W. Arnold Road, Sandwich • 11 a.m. to noon Jan. 25 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb

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DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will offer patrons a tai chi lesson as part of a monthly series.

The program will be held at 6 p.m. Jan. 2 in the lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. The lesson is free and intended for teens and adults.

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

6

Highlights of the year Kirkland Lions celebrate 75 years, Goodfellows carry on Christmas tradition

By CAMDEN LAZENBY

clazenby@shawmedia.com DeKALB – Before laying out goals for the new year, it’s often fun to have a look back on the year that has been had.

These are 12 stories featured in the pages of The MidWeek in 2023 for our year in review.

January 100 computer labs for Kenya schools: Shabbona woman sets her 2023 goals as work heralded

by CNN Hero of the Year Nelly Cheboi, a Shabbona-based software engineer who was born in Kenya, said she just assumed she wouldn’t win when she found out she was nominated to be CNN’s Hero of the Year.

Cheboi was on a New York stage when she was named the 2022 CNN Hero of the Year.

“I really did not believe I was going to win, and so when I heard my name I don’t know, I was just overwhelmed,” Cheboi said.

February Married at 17, DeKalb couple shares why they’re still going strong after 70 years: ‘Take the bad with the good’ Edwin Drury, 87, was an underclassman in high school when he met a woman named Joan through friends in DeKalb, and nearly three-quarters of a century later he celebrated his 71st Valentine’s Day with her.

Joan Drury, 87, and Edwin Drury, celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren last September.

“I met my wife through her twin sister,” Edwin Drury, who goes by Morry, said. “I was with some of my friends at a drive-in on West Lincoln Highway. I had seen her probably a year before getting on a bus in Sycamore – I thought what a beautiful lady.”

March Sycamore woman first to undergo new procedure for congestive heart failure at Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb A Sycamore woman suffering from congestive heart failure said she’s been given peace of mind after becoming the first patient to receive a new

type of heart implant at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb.

Considering she was the first to undergo the operation at Kishwaukee Hospital, Diana Morrasy-Carls said she was a little nervous before she was implanted with the device. She said she’s found, however, that it transformed her ability to be at ease regarding her health concerns.

“I was a little nervous when I was going to have it done because I was the first one,” Morrasy-Carls said. “And I hope that people that are considering this will do it. You have to get on the pillow daily – I’ve skipped a few days but not many – and I just feel, like it gives me peace of mind.”

Photo provided by Nelly Cheboi

Husband and wife Tyler Cinnamon and Nelly Cheboi co-founded TechLit Africa, a nonprofit organization that redistributes recycled technology to build computer labs in Kenyan schools.

April Vocational farm in Hampshire offers animal therapy, goat grams ahead of Easter Live Learn and Lead – a vocational farm in Hampshire – is doing well after more than three years of serving the public through programming it said transforms the mind, body and spirit.

Didi Dowling, owner and executive director of Live Learn and Lead, said individuals who are helped by her 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization are taught life skills, such as work ethic, cooking, home and animal care as well as basic mechanics. The organization is based in Hampshire but operates throughout the region, including DeKalb, Boone, Kane, McHenry and Lake counties.

The charitable organization exists today because Dowling decided she wanted to find a way to work out of her barn after getting a master’s degree in social work from George Williams College of Aurora University in Williams Bay, Wisconsin.

“I basically wanted to have my barn be my office, so I created Live Learn and Lead,” Dowling said.

Shaw Local News Network file photo

On March 3, Diana Morrasy-Carls smiles while talking about the peace of mind she’s found since she was implanted with a CardioMEMs device at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital.

May Kishwaukee Family YMCA taps Sycamore man, longtime center employee, as CEO A Sycamore resident, who has worked at Kishwaukee Family YMCA for almost 30 years, has been chosen as the new chief executive officer of the local branch of the nonprofit organization.

See YEAR IN REVIEW, page 7

Photo provided by Katharine Whitelaw

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First United Methodist Church in DeKalb opened its new church building for worship in June.

Continued from page 6 Brian Bickner, 54, was tabbed as the new head of the local facility after holding the position on an interim basis since November 2022.

“It’s exciting,” Bickner said. “I wasn’t looking for a CEO position specifically, but when this one opened up, I wanted this one. ... I’ve been here almost 30 years full time. It’s a part of me. I want to see this [YMCA] succeed.”

June Kirkland residents dream of tree city: Tree removal frustration grows into shared group with hopes for a greener community About 10 months after some Kirkland residents expressed dismay at a village project that required trees to be cut down, the group has turned that frustration into a goal: to make Kirkland a green city.

Residents reformed the Kirkland Tree Commission, a cooperative effort meant to enhance the community’s canopy in collaboration with the village.

Dozens of trees were removed by the village of Kirkland from the strip of grass between Kirkland neighborhood roads and the adjacent sidewalks in August 2022 to make way for a new curb and sewer system.

Village officials said they’d tried to find a way to install the new sewer system without needing to remove trees, but they determined that removal was the “safest, most viable solution,” Village President Ryan Block said at the time.

July Foster care to farm: Ruth Project expands in DeKalb County The Ruth Project, an organization

that aims to give love and help to children in foster care and the families that take them in, has expanded to a 33-acre farm at the corner of Sycamore, DeKalb and Cortland.

The founder and executive director of the Ruth Project, Tammy McMahan, who’s fostered more than 23 children, said she and her family privately bought the Sycamore property and began residing there in April 2023, so the 501(c)(3) nonprofit could use the 33-acre farm as a place to facilitate events for a community of foster families.

“Here – it was purposeful – was our second step. And that was to purchase the farm so that we could do ongoing events and support the families.

Whether individually – so we’ll have events here that will just have one family and we’ll have them over for dinner,” Tammy McMahan said. “And we’ve had over 300 Ruth dinners ... and we’ve only been here for three months.”

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• YEAR IN REVIEW

Continued from page 7 build a new church than it would be to renovate the church’s former home at 317 N. Fourth St. in DeKalb. Congregants had gathered there since 1909.

More than 100 years later, church leaders knew it was time to move on.

September Kirkland Lions Club celebrates 75 years of service Seventy-five years after a Kirkland resident raised enough money to put on a Fourth of July fireworks show for the village, the community club that was started to thank him is still going strong.

The Kirkland Lions Club’s Fourth of July celebration has been held annually ever since Corwin Lamont – a grocery store operator – raised $300 for the first celebration in 1948. What continued his initiative was the community’s gratitude and charity, according to the club.

Ed Davis, 82, moved to the area when he was in high school. He wasn’t around for the club’s founding, but he said he figures he’s the oldest living member of the club.

“One thing I’m kind of proud of is, when I got in the Lion’s Club ... I always took my vacation around the Fourth of July to help with the Fourth of July celebrations, and put in some long hours and really, you feel like you’ve accomplished something doing that,” Davis said.

October NIU’s new app helps make campus more accessible Northern Illinois University recently unveiled a new digital app meant to help aid those who are blind or visually impaired get around campus.

According to a university officials, NIU is the first university in the U.S. to install NaviLens, an innovative wayfinding app.

Katharine Whitelaw, an information technology accessibility officer at NIU, has spearheaded the implementation of the Spain-based accessibility app NaviLens. The smartphone app uses distinctive black, blue, magenta and yellow codes placed on buildings, buses and navigation information signs to help the user navigate.

November CASA DeKalb celebrates 30 years of advocacy for children in DeKalb County DeKalb County children in tough situations have had court appointed

special advocates to help them through the judicial system for the past 30 years thanks to CASA DeKalb County.

Since 1993, if a child or family of children are being brought through the court system because of alleged abuse or neglect from their guardian, CASA DeKalb advocates are appointed as the child’s guardians at law for the entirety of court proceedings.

Jill Olson, who’s been executive director of CASA DeKalb County for the past 23 years, said each advocacy usually lasts about three years.

They’re appointed to ensure the children aren’t pressured by their next of kin during court proceedings.

“We are there to be their voice in court, and to make sure that they are receiving these services that they need. We oftentimes act as the eyes and ears of the judge because understandably the judge is being asked to make decisions about what’s going to happen to these children. Are they ultimately going to be returned home to their families? So it’s important for the judge to have as much factual information as possible, and we provide that,” Olson said.

December DeKalb County residents carry on Goodfellows tradition An annual charitable tradition that was started by an anonymous assistant attorney to the city of Chicago 114 years ago lives on in the generous acts of DeKalb County residents known as the Goodfellows.

According to Goodfellows of DeKalb and Sycamore, the Christmastime initiative was started in 1909 – when a man published an anonymous letter in the Chicago Tribune calling for good fellows (of any gender) to volunteer to deliver presents (of any value) to less advantaged children on Christmas Eve. The call to action was published on Dec. 10, 1909. Three days later, according to the Chicago Tribune, 1,011 good fellows had signed up to help 7,610 Chicago children. As word of the good tiding spread, some began to emulate the anonymous gift giving elsewhere.

The Goodfellows never became a national organization but the tradition of giving Christmas gifts to children on Christmas Eve has taken hold in DeKalb County.

“It’s a way for people to share Christmas magic with kids who may not receive much for Christmas.

They’ll get toys from different programs, Toys for Tots or whatever,” said Christel Springmire, of Sycamore, who for the past 20 years has been volunteering and donating with the Goodfellows of DeKalb and Sycamore.

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LOOKING BACK

9

While the work of installing the new pumping equipment in the Seagrave truck of the DeKalb Fire Department by a factory expert is taking place the old fire truck owned by the city of Sycamore has been loaned to DeKalb. Sycamore recently bought a new truck equipped with a pump and during the time when the Seagrave will be out of commission Sycamore’s second best will be housed in the DeKalb barns.

One of the older landmarks of the Sycamore’s business section, is to be sold at court sale tomorrow forenoon at 11 o’clock, that of the Gossmann building adjacent to the First National Bank. It is understood there are several bidders in sight at this time and although it is not expected the court attaches will allow the building to go for a song. It is more than likely it will be purchased at a lower price than through a real estate agency. Special efforts have been put forth to get several people interested and the sale is attracting unusual interest.

Through the courtesy of several friends about the city of DeKalb the members of the police department are smoking good cigars for a few days as several boxes of the better variety were left there Monday night and Tuesday morning. The chief does not indulge in the weed, and it is up to the mayor, and other members of the department to get rid of the smokes before they become dried out. It looks now as thought the several boxes left at the station will not last long, but then New Year’s Day is coming within a few days and more probably will be left there.

Patrons of the public library are informed that the library will not open Sunday afternoon, Monday evening or Christmas day. Since the installation of the library in the new quarters on the second floor of the Chronicle building, the librarians have been busy stacking the many volumes. They will welcome the short vacation which the holiday will afford.

It is with the utmost regret that those in the news room of The Chronicle, as well as the other numerous friends of Miss Esther Beckman, have learned of the illness of “our” operator, who is suffering with a throat affliction, reported to be quinsy. It is to be hoped that Miss Beckman will recover rapidly from the illness and soon be able to return to her duties at the switchboard of the telephone office.

1948 – 75 YEARS AGO

Patricia Montgomery, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Montgomery of Kirkland suffered a fractured nose Tuesday forenoon when hit by a hard snowball.

Several reports have been received of counterfeit ten-dollar bills being passed in DeKalb, the bills having been noted by cashiers and the like. A few weeks ago, a warning was issued to be on the lookout for bogus 10and 20-dollar bills as a number of them had been discovered in the northern Illinois area. None of the bills was found in the DeKalb area until a few days ago.

Since then, others have reported discovering them. The

Photo provided by DeKalb County History Center

The original bandstand in Liberty Park in DeKalb, between 10th and 11th streets on Lewis Street, is seen in August 1955.

bills bear a very close resemblance to good greenbacks and are difficult to detect.

Municipal Airport. It lies directly in the path of where the road would do the most good.

When employees of Ideal Industries, Inc., left work yesterday each had a turkey and a big grin. The turkey, a Christmas present from the management and the grin just naturally went with it.

Someday April 18, 1973, may be engraved in a bronze plaque as the date the county purchased its fourth, and biggest, forest preserve, 240 acres in Afton Township, south of DeKalb. But right now, the land is still cornfield and all but 40 to 50 acres are likely to remain cornfield in 1974. Most of the land most likely will continue to be farmed while a committee tackles a question perhaps stickier than the original question of whether to buy the land.

DeKalb County, ordinarily one of those territories where the sale of Christmas Seals was an accepted record breaking event, has been lagging this year.

Although the sale has not as yet officially closed, there are very definite indications that DeKalb County is lagging behind the mark of last year.

Over 40 mechanical toys many games, blocks, and jig-saw puzzles were delivered to the president of the Ministerial Association in DeKalb yesterday afternoon to be delivered to boys and girls on Christmas Day. The Mother’s Club was designated to find the families worthy of these gifts. The Mother’s Club, which is packing baskets for needy families will also see that the children of these families have toys for Christmas. The toys came from the Cub Scout Pack of Hinckley and were repaired and repainted by Connie Viakancic with some help from the Cubs.

Inmates of the DeKalb County jail will enjoy the traditional Christas dinner of turkey and all the trimmings tomorrow. Mrs. Arthur E. Anderson, wife of the sheriff, will have only five “guests” for the meal and they will eat turkey, potatoes, sweet potatoes, dressing and pie. Most of the “guests” are serving jail terms for vagrancy or similar crimes and have two or three months to go.

1973 – 50 YEARS AGO

There is still no bypass-access road, but there is a committee to study it. Throughout 1973, the county fathers wrestled with obstacles to a road County Board Chairman John Castle has said everyone wants. The primary obstacle is a very physical one, the DeKalb

Col. Herb Barnett’s Used and New Furniture Store on West Route 34, Sandwich, was nearly destroyed by fire last night. Fritz Lindner, acting fire chief, said the roof caved in on the west end of the building, the empty upstairs apartments were gutted, and the restaurant on the east end of the building had severe smoke and water damage.

1998 – 25 YEARS AGO

Many children’s holiday memories include the very first time they ever tried to ice skate, and Sycamore residents can live these memories at the ice rink at Wetzel Park. Sycamore Park District will again attempt this year to keep an outdoor ice rink available for residents to use on the corner of Florence Drive and Nickels Drive throughout the winter months.

Terry’s Ristorante in Shabbona is opening its doors once again on Christmas Day between 4-7 p.m. This is a celebration of the birth of Christ for those who are hungry or are lonely. There will be gifts for little ones given out by Santa.

The Salvation Army’s kettle collection campaign will be short of its goal this year, but DeKalb officials say mail-in contributions will take up the slack later. Lt. Kris Wood said the campaign had collected $109,413 as of Monday afternoon. The goal is $125,000.

– Compiled by Sue Breese

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

1923 – 100 YEARS AGO

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

10

Charity basketball game raises $1.5K for food pantry

By CAMDEN LAZENBY

clazenby@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – Sycamore School District 427 staff took home a victory against city first responders Dec. 19 in the first Heroes on Hardwood fundraiser, but players said the real winner was the charity work it benefited.

After holding a one-point lead over the team of Sycamore firefighters and police officers, district staff ran away with the game in the second half, winning 62-49.

The game was held at Sycamore High School.

The price of admission for the basketball game was a cash or food donation to the Spartan Food Pantry, which serves the families of District 427 students.

Food pantry president Thomas Franks – who’s also the principal at North Elementary School in Sycamore – said the pantry staff was humbled when asked to be the beneficiary of the new fundraiser.

“This is going to be great for us, not only in terms of donations, but also for us to get our word out, so that people know about the pantry more in our community,” Franks said. “We’re really excited about the exposure.”

Camden Lazenby

Players get set for the start of the first Heroes on Hardwood basketball game Dec. 19 at Sycamore High School.

The Spartan Food Pantry received $1,500 worth of donations, enough to fill more than 10 wagons, Franks said.

A similar event was held in DeKalb earlier this month, where DeKalb police and firefighters defeated the teachers

and staff from DeKalb School District 428 in the annual Guns and Hoses Basketball Game.

Although the new Sycamore event mirrors what’s been done in DeKalb for years, Sycamore school officials said

the idea came from the Sycamore Police Department. Sycamore Police Chief Jim Winters gave the credit to Detective Ryan Nicholson, who regularly plays basketball at a local gym.

Nicholson, who played for the first responders’ team, shied away from the credit, but said he was happy to see members of the public filling into Sycamore High School’s gymnasium 30 minutes before tipoff.

“I think it’s great, especially getting together for a local charity. We’re keeping it really within Sycamore, partnering with the food pantry,” Nicholson said. “It’s the school district, the fire department and the police department all coming together, as well as the community, to make this happen.”

Sycamore Assistant Superintendent Nick Reineck, a player for the school district’s team, said the event was showing telltale signs of a success before the charity game even began.

“We didn’t really know what it would be. We put it together kind of late,” Reineck said. “All credit going to [Sycamore police and fire departments].

They reached out, put this thing together, and it looks like we’re going to have a good crowd supporting our own community and our families within our community through the food pantry.”

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By CAMDEN LAZENBY

clazenby@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – The almost $120,000 that Sycamore property owners were erroneously taxed this year will be returned via rebate checks in 2024, after city officials blamed the taxation error on an “administrative issue.”

A Daily Chronicle review of tax records found Sycamore overtaxed its residents by almost $120,000 on their 2022 city property tax bills, taxing them at a higher rate than what the City Council approved.

Sycamore residents asked the city to return the overpaid taxes at the first Sycamore City Council meeting of December. Then, at the Dec. 18 meeting – at which no one spoke during the public comment portion – City Manager Michael Hall said the money would be returned to taxpayers and acknowledged the nature of the mistake.

No vote was needed Dec. 18 to initiate the tax rebate.

“After talking to legal, we’ve determined it is actually an administrative issue, and that we will be returning the $120,000, or $119,999.07, by check to every single parcel that paid last year,” Hall said.

City officials in November, the morning after the Chronicle began asking about its findings, blamed the overtaxation on a “clerical error.”

The Daily Chronicle review, through public records requests, revealed the city levied property taxes at a higher rate – 0.7% instead of the approved 0.68% rate – for 2022 property tax bills, paid in 2023. Instead of bringing in the expected additional revenue of $600,000, the city brought in $719,991, about $120,000 more than elected officials approved, according to DeKalb County documents.

Hall – who said he didn’t crosscheck the property tax levy that was approved in December 2022 when working on the city’s budget four months later – said he initially was hesitant to ask for the City Council’s approval for a tax rebate in November

because he worried it could cost the city more than what was overtaxed.

That changed after some help from DeKalb County officials, he said.

“At first, the administration of how do we return [the overtaxed money] seemed like a difficult task going forward,” he said. “In actuality, we received a file from [DeKalb] County, from [DeKalb County Treasurer] Becky Springer, and she was extremely helpful in giving us this information and gave us all the data that we needed in order to figure out how to do that.”

Sycamore Finance Director Kristian Dominquez will be responsible for tabulating what each taxpayer is owed and sending out the appropriate rebate checks, a task Hall said will be completed no later than Aug. 1.

City officials said the average rebate check for Sycamore residents is estimated to be between $10 and $20, but some business owners may be owed more.

First Ward Alderperson Alan Bauer said the overtaxation “needed to be fixed,” while 4th Ward Alderperson Ben Bumpus asked what systems and procedures the city is establishing to prevent future overtaxation debacles.

Hall said adjusting the city’s fiscal year to align with the calendar year – something that was approved a year ago – will help the city prevent repeating this year’s error. The finance department also now will take a leading roll in double-checking the financial numbers on city documents, the city manager said.

“The finance department is now going to be checking all financial ordinances that are in place,” Hall said.

“So a lot of times we pre-fill ordinances with data and information, and then when there are amendments that come up – that’s where it fell through.

But also, just to make sure, that’s being double-checked by finance, which it wasn’t in the past, to make sure that was checked when amendments come at the last minute, which is what happened last time.”

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After talking to legal, we’ve determined it is actually an administrative issue.”

Michael Hall, Sycamore city manager

SM-CL2122551

11 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Property tax rebates coming after Sycamore overtaxed residents

DCCF to host grant seeker workshop Jan. 17 SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

SYCAMORE – Nonprofit and public sector organizations eager to secure financial support from the DeKalb County Community Foundation are invited to attend a virtual workshop in January to learn more.

The workshop will run from 2 to 3 p.m. Jan. 17 and is offered through the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, according to a news release.

Register online at dcnp.org/ grant-seeker-workshop to receive an attendance link and audio instructions.

Workshop attendees will learn valuable tips and strategies to increase their chances of receiving grants from the Community Foundation. Attendees will also gain a better understanding of the foundation, including an overview of all grant programs, community ini-

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tiatives, and how they all work together to benefit DeKalb County. Foundation staff will lead the workshop and provide ample time for questions.

“This workshop is a resource for applicants, providing them with comprehensive information and tools necessary to position themselves for foundation support,” community foundation grants director Jolene Willis said in a news release. “Our commitment lies in making our grant programs accessible to all and ensuring that anyone seeking funding comprehends the application process. The workshop answers common questions about when, where and how to apply.”

For a detailed overview of the Community Foundation grant programs, guidelines, and applications, visit dekalbccf.org/grant-programs.

For questions or additional information, call Jolene Willis at 815-7485383 or email j.willis@dekalbccf.org.

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

12

How to submit

Dennis Leifheit

Sycamore

Send obituary information to obits@MidWeekNews.com. or call 815-526-4438.

Notices are accepted until 3 p.m. Thursday for the next Wednesday edition.

CARL STEPHEN “STEVE” LINDBECK Born: October 26, 1943 in Chicago, IL Died: December 17, 2023 in Rockford, IL Carl Stephen “Steve” Lindbeck, 80, of Sycamore died December 17, 2023 at St Anthony’s Medical Center in Rockford.

He was born on October 26, 1943 in Chicago to Carl S. and Hazel (Miller) Lindbeck. He married Gayle Martin and spent 58 wonderful years together.

Steve was a veteran of the Naval Air Force. He was a member of the Maple Park American Legion, where he enjoyed volunteering for community events.

Steve was an avid lover of animals. He supported the ASPCA and the Humane Society.

Steve attended Bradley University. He worked with his father at his grandfather’s boiler shop in Chicago until taking a position as a Boiler Inspector with the State of Illinois from 1968-1974 when he became the Asst.

Boiler Chief from 1974-1978. He left to take a

position with the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors out of Columbus, OH and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He traveled for business extensively throughout Europe, the Far East, South America, the Middle East, Canada and Africa.

He left the National Board in 1996 to return working for the State of Illinois. He retired from the State in 2009.

Survivors include his wife, Gayle; his daughter, Nicole J. (Mike) Boddy of Sycamore; grandchildren, Sabrina Gandsey, Sierra (Ian) Engel, Morgana Gandsey, Quinton Gandsey, Madisyn Boddy and Griffin Gandsey; his great granddaughter, Genevieve Engel; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Stephen C. Lindbeck in 2022.

His visitation will be on Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 10:00 AM -1:30 PM at the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL., followed by a military graveside burial at the Charter Grove Cemetery in rural Sycamore.

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Community welcomes Brad Belanger back to city

By CAMDEN LAZENBY

clazenby@shawmedia.com SYCAMORE – The Sycamore community rallied behind one of its own Dec. 18 as first responders helped escort a Sycamore firefighter across multiple counties and back home after a hospital stay.

Roads were shut down for about an hour in DuPage, Kane and DeKalb counties to help show community support for Sycamore firefighter Brad Belanger and his battle with esophageal cancer.

The motorcade left Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield about 4:30 p.m. and drove through Sycamore about 45 minutes later.

Sycamore Fire Chief Bart Gilmore said he thinks about 10 separate fire and police departments helped facilitate the motorcade, including the city of DeKalb and departments in Kane and DuPage counties.

“We were very happy with the turnout we got,” Gilmore said. “We were happy for the participation of the police, both local and county. Just really very happy with the event.”

About a dozen people lined the corner of State and Maple streets in downtown Sycamore about 5 p.m. Dec. 18 for the motorcade’s procession. Attendees included Sycamore City Manager Michael Hall and City Clerk and Recorder Mary Kalk.

The Sycamore Firefighters Local 3046 union helped coordinate the effort.

A social media announcement on the Sycamore Fire Department’s Facebook page went out about 3 p.m. Dec. 18.

“In honor of the many sacrifices he has made throughout his career for the Sycamore community and those nearby, we want to make sure he arrives home safely,” Sycamore fire officials wrote in

Camden Lazenby

Police briefly shut down a portion of Illinois Route 64 in downtown Sycamore on Dec. 18 to help welcome a motorcade for longtime Sycamore firefighter Brad Belanger, who returned home from Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. the social media post.

Belanger has been a firefighter and paramedic with the Sycamore Fire Department for almost two decades.

He resigned from his newly elected position on the DeKalb County Board in January amid his cancer diagnosis.

A GoFundMe public fundraiser was set up to aid Belanger’s care. As of Dec. 18, $29,056 has been raised from 232 donations.

The Syamore Fire Department urged the community to remember to give the Belanger family their space. “[W]hile we understand the desire to express sympathy and concern, we also ask for your understanding and cooperation in respecting the family’s privacy during this challenging time,” fire officials wrote. “They appreciate the out-

pouring of support from our tight-knit community and would like to navigate

this difficult journey with a sense of peace and serenity.”

Wishing you and yours peace, love, and good health for this magical Holiday Season and into the New Year!

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF DeKalb library to host meet Elsa and Olaf event Dec. 27

DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host an event for patrons to meet Elsa and Olaf from the movie “Frozen.”

The event will be at 10 a.m. Dec. 27 in the lower-lever Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St., according to a news release.

Attendees can listen to a story read by Elsa and Olaf. Hot chocolate and winter crafts will be provided. Parents can take photos of the event. No registration is required to attend.

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

– Shaw Local News Network

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Sycamore helps escort ailing firefighter home

13

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

14 Exercise business Hotworx celebrates Sycamore opening

Photo provided by the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce

The Sycamore Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Hotworx to its membership. Chamber staff, board members and community members celebrated with a ribbon-cutting Nov. 17.

Hotworx, 2690 DeKalb Ave. in Sycamore, offers innovative exercise classes and activities in a unique environment that combines exercise, heat and infrared energy. For information, visit hotworx.net/studio/sycamore-dekalbave.

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SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

MALTA – Kishwaukee College recently recognized 22 students for their completion of the college’s registered nursing program during a pinning ceremony on Dec. 13.

The ceremony included an address from the college’s Director of Nursing Angela Delmont and Kishwaukee College President Laurie Borowicz.

Each graduate was pinned by a family member or friend who supported them or acted as their mentor during the program.

The graduating registered nursing class of fall 2023 includes Kaylee Abbott, Sabrina Brake, Marili Cervantes-Valdes, Kimberly Dennis, Whitney Dulzo, Tiffany Frazier, Yessenia Games, Carmen Hettel, Baleigh Howlett, Cullin Hultgren, Nicole Klassen, Kendra Licht, Kya Logston, Beatrice Makinde, Ilse Molina, Jordan Myatt, Jonathan Nguyen, Kaitlynn Ost, Olivia Ramos, Guadalupe Rangel, Vanessa Salinas and Traiscey Tolbert.

Abbott, Frazier, Klassen, Nguyen, Ramos and Salinas were recognized as Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honors Society members.

Abbott was the fall 2023 class’ nominee for the nursing program’s Outstanding Student.

The Kishwaukee College registered nursing program prepares students to become fully licensed registered nurses in Illinois.

Photo provided by Kishwaukee College

Graduates of the Kishwaukee College registered nursing fall 2023 program pose for a picture. Kishwaukee College recently recognized 22 students for their completion of the college’s registered nursing program during a pinning ceremony.

Sycamore Lions Club donates $500 to Feed My Starving Children

Photo provided by the Sycamore Lions Club

The Sycamore Lions Club recently donated a $500 check to Feed My Starving Children. The check was presented at a Make A Difference DeKalb County packing event Nov. 9, according to a news release. The check was donated by 29 Sycamore Lions Club members, friends and family members. The club also helped pack more than 91,000 meals for Feed My Starving Children.

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Almost 2 dozen Kish College nursing students celebrated 15

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

16

AMUSEMENTS

SUDOKU AND SUPER CROSSWORD ANSWERS ON PAGE 2

17

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Tracts 1-3 are located 6 miles west of Streator, IL or 40 miles north of Bloomington, IL. Tract 4 is located 3 miles northwest of Ransom, IL or 8 miles northeast of Streator, IL. The land is further described as being located in Section 35, T31NR2E, Eagle Township, and Section 6, T31N-R5E, Allen Township, LaSalle County, Illinois.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

CLASSIFIED

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 27, 2023 MIDWEEK

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.98

1.48

Hy-Vee potato chips

General Mills Chex Mix, Bugles or Gardetto's

SNACK SALE 1.48

select varieties 7.8 or 8 oz.

select varieties 6 to 8.75 oz.

Fri - Sun December 29 - 31 ONLY!

2.98ea. with purchase of 4

Coca-Cola products 6 pack bottles 16.9 fl. oz.

Little Debbie family pack snacks select varieties 6 to 16.2 oz. (limit 2)

3.48ea.

2.88

2.88

On the Border tortilla chips or queso dip

with purchase of 3

Frito-Lay party size snacks, queso dip or salsa

Nabisco family size snack crackers

select varieties 15 to 16 oz.

select varieties 11.5 to 14 oz.

select varieties 8.12 to 24 oz.

5.98

2.88

20 ct. Bakery fresh chocolate chip or monster cookies (limit 4)

3.29

PERKS PRICE

Hy-Vee string cheese

®

Nature Valley or Fiber One bars

select varieties 12 oz.

select varieties 5 to 8 ct.

3.42

We reserve the right to limit quantities.

NON-MEMBER PRICE

1.48

2.48

select varieties 4.9 to 5.6 oz. (limit 2)

8.2 to 16.5 oz.

2.99

2.88

Pringles crisps

PERKS PRICE ®

Planters peanuts

select varieties 16 or 16.5 oz.

3.28

NON-MEMBER PRICE

f und bee Fresh gro 16 oz. roll , 20% fat turkey 80% lean -O grooz.und roll or Jennie 16 , 15% fat

4.97

pkg. shell-on, ct., 12 oz.

41 to 50 imp

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pkg. tail-off, ct., 12 oz.

71 to 90

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Avocados

oz.

.39lb.

bananas Chiquita NON-MEMBER

ese

edded che -Vee shr 8 oz.

Hy SAVE!

.69

ties 6 to R select varie NON-MEMBE PRICE

2.68

3.48

each

1.99

2.98

Some restrictions apply. Prices subject to change. See store for details.

shrimp rket raw , & deveined Fish Ma EZ peeled

ties 13.8 select varie

select varieties 5 to 10 ct.

NON-MEMBER PRICE

Inquire about price adjustments at checkout in-store.

85% lean

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General Mills fruit snacks

ANY AND ALL AREA COMPETITORS.

2.99

k’s pizza

PERKS PRICE

WE PRICE MATCH

NewYear HAPPY

2.49

Hostess multipack snacks select varieties

SAVE!

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.59lb.

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.40

rs Ritz cracke Nabiscoties 8.8 to 13.7 oz.

R select varie NON-MEMBE PRICE

3.88

PRICE

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