Issue 2 - InVironments Magazine

Transcription

Issue 2 - InVironments Magazine
VOL 8 ISSUE 2
MAR-AP R 2016
D E KAL B COUNTY E D ITION
40
30
Building the Past
The history of DeKalb and a
secret WWII drone program
Passion in Education
Read about Kathy Countryman and Tim Carlson —
two educators working to expand opportunities in
Sycamore’s schools
Where life happens.
1
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
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Where life happens.
3
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
T A B L E
O F
CONTENTS
08 I N PA R E N T I N G
19 I N D I Y
The Fly Mommy has a lot to rave about when she visits
the new children’s area at the DeKalb Public Library
Ashley Murcia joins the birthday fun with
her advice on a party-time activity
11 I N C O M M U N I T Y
22 I N M E D I C I N E
The DeKalb County Community Foundation
shows how your money benefits worthy causes
like the Kishwaukee Education Consortium
The KishHealth Spine Center aims to treat patients
with conservative methods for the best results
25 I N H O M E
Don’t buy a home until you read the secrets
confessions of a Realtor from American Realty
28 I N H E A LT H
It’s getting warmer, and Katie Dawson has the
best tips to get active and eat healthy
30 I N P E O P L E
14
Tim Carlson shows that community spirit and a dedication
to students are at the core of Sycamore High School
34 I N E D U C AT I O N
I N S P O RTS
Read about one Sycamore student’s motivation
as he prepares for an Olympic tryout
16 I N H E A LT H
The Glyvitis Vein Clinic offers modern technology
for treating painful, unsightly varicose veins
CONTACT US
AT INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE
P.O. Box 4, Sycamore, IL 60178
InVironments Editorial Staff
[email protected]
Darby Dwyer, Advertising Director
[email protected]
Inspiration from her family helps Kathy Countryman
make the important decisions for Sycamore schools
37 I N K I D S
Planning a kids birthday? Don’t miss our tips
for making each birthday the best!
40 I N H I S TO R Y
Learn about DeKalb County’s historic link
to WWII and the modern drone
45 I N B O O K S
We all love the stories, but now you can learn
the origin of Winnie-the-Pooh with this book
recommendation from Dee Coover
46 C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S
See what’s happening in the community with
the InVironments Event Calendar
FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS GO TO: WWW INVIRONMENTSMAG.COM
Where life happens.
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
Where life happens.
7
I N PA R E N T I N G
LIBRARY DAY
at the New DeKalb Public Library
By Karen Weckerly
M
y family moved to DeKalb in
1980, and I spent many hours
of my childhood at the DeKalb
Public Library. Running the ramparts with
my younger brother and sister outside the
old children’s library is a fond memory.
When the recent expansion was completed,
I was excited to see the new space, and
share the day with my own children.
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
It was touching
to see my own
children enjoy a
place that had been
a favorite of my
own as a child.”
We arrived at the new Oak St. entrance
on either end, allowing users over a wide
to story time, checking out little paintings
and two eager kiddos ran inside. “Whoa,”
age range to make the best use of their
to hang in my room for a week, playing
they both exclaimed as we entered
time. What a great area for families,
with the doll house, and participating in
the foyer I’m dubbing “the grand hall.” I
especially during the long Illinois winters.
the reading incentive programs. I was
quite moved by the whole experience—
was awestruck as well by the beautiful
new space and gorgeous architectural
Next we walked past the children’s
seeing the beautiful new library and
details. We took the elevator upstairs
computer work area and discovered the
feeling the promise it held for the future.
to the new children’s library, and the
tree house play center. In this play area
In parenting, the days are long, the
kiddos started helping themselves to
we found plentiful cushions for building,
years are short, and trips to the library
books from the forward facing display
sitting or, in our case, jumping into like an
make memories to last a lifetime. f
shelves. They plopped down and settled
oversized swimming pool. The windows
into the very cool purple banquets. I
in the tree house had a lovely view of
noticed immediately how comfortable
downtown DeKalb with nice built-in
they both were in the space, and it was
window seats for comfortable seating
obvious that great care had been taken to
for adults and children. There was also
accommodate children and their parents.
a puppet theater, and lots of puppets on
a pretty pegboard. The kiddos happily
After doing a bit of reading, we moved
played there with all the toys for over an
on to the open play space and Lego
hour until we had to leave for dinner, and
wall. There were plentiful play tables,
I pretty much had to drag them home.
toys in good condition, and beautiful big
windows adding to the well-lit play area.
It was touching to see my own children
Four study rooms and the children’s
enjoy a place that had been a favorite of
activity room bookended the play area
my own as a child. I still remember going
Where life happens.
9
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
INCOMMUNITY
A RISING TIDE:
A COMMUNITY’S GENEROSITY,
A COUNTY’S GROWTH
F
rom the first moment in the
Foundation, ordinary citizens have helped
Susan Carlson, who teaches the new
day, we all look for ways
local projects flourish across the county.
course, sees how students, still in high
school, are already taking the first step
to make our community a
better place for our neighbors, our
This past year, for example, the Kishwaukee
into the careers of the future. “Right now
children, and if at all possible, the
Education Consortium (KEC) received a
I have students in my class working on
people we have never even met.
significant Community Needs Grant from
green-screen projects,” she says, with
the DeKalb County Community Foundation,
pride. “I have students working on radio
Still, despite our best efforts, we often
which improved safety and brought new
ads, and I have a student working on a
wonder if there are additional ways to help.
professional opportunities to the students
graphics portfolio.”
For those looking to make a wide-reaching
at KEC. The grant directly supported the
impact, the DeKalb County Community
addition of KEC’s new bell system and
Speaking from her own experience, Carlson
Foundation offers such opportunities for
opened a new Mass Communications
affirms, “There are a variety of opportunities
everyone. By making contributions to the
course to local students.
for these students to choose from, and I
Where life happens.
11
INCOMMUNITY
These grants really are addressing the
needs we see in DeKalb County.”
absolutely see them starting careers with
– BECKY ZANTOUT, GRANTS AND
COMMUNITY INITIATIVES MANAGER
HOW TO MAKE A
DIFFERENCE
these skills.”
Dr. Amy Horn, College and Career
Readiness Coordinator at KEC, stresses
Community Needs Grants are made
how the DeKalb County Community
possible through undesignated
Foundation has assisted KEC with its
donations to the DeKalb County
goal of staying current with the needs of
Community Endowment Fund, which
students. “The bell system was actually
supports the Community Needs Grants
the main goal we had when applying for
and other board designated initiatives.
the grant because we never had a bell
The DeKalb County Community
system,” Horn explains. “Now
Endowment Fund has a principal amount,
we’ve been able to introduce more
and through conservative investment
structure into the daily curriculum, as
by the Community Foundation board of
well as the peace-of-mind and security
of having a new intercom network
Focusing on KEC’s main ambition, Horn
throughout the building.”
explains how the Mass Communication
course was developed with the educational
and career success of students in mind.
“We offer classes based on career trends
and what students and the community
need,” she says. “We look to see what
there is a demand for in the community,
and right now, we have about 100 seniors
transitioning to Kishwaukee college
through our programs and a success
rate of 94% with our students overall.”
directors, is able to provide grants while
also ensuring funds remain available
for future endeavors into perpetuity.
When you donate to the DeKalb County
Community Foundation, you can specify
that your gift be undesignated, or you
can send a gift to the DeKalb County
Community Endowment Fund.
For more information, or to make a
donation online, visit dekalbccf.org
or contact Dan Templin at
[email protected] or 815-748-5383.
That success is not just a point of pride
for KEC and its students – it is also shared
by donors who support Community
Needs Grants provided by the DeKalb
County Community Foundation. Still, the
Kishwaukee Education Consortium is not
the only place where change is happening.
Countless other projects across DeKalb
County have been helped by the continuing
philanthropy of everyday citizens who
give to the DeKalb County Community
Endowment Fund so their community
can improve – making sure the tide of
generosity continues to rise and the
county becomes a better place for all. f
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
PAST GRANTS
AWARDED TO KEC
BELL SYSTEM AND MASS
COMMUNICATION COURSE:
$10,000.00
AWARDED IN 2015
FIRE SCIENCE AND RESTART
PROGRAM ENHANCEMENTS:
$4,000.00
AWARDED IN 2013
DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-MEDIA
AND CULINARY PROGRAMS:
$9,000.00
AWARDED IN 2012
DeKalb County Community Foundation Staff from left to right: Barb King, Administrative Manager;
Anita Zurbrugg, Program Director; Dan Templin, Executive Director; Becky Zantout, Grants
& Community Initiatives Manager; Ben Bingle DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership (DCNP)
Manager; Noah Nordbrock, Donor Services & Marketing Director
FIVE-YEAR, MULTI-YEAR GRANT
FOR NEW TECHNOLOGY:
$100,000.00
AWARDED FROM 2007- 2011
Where life happens.
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INSPORTS
TAKING A BREATH
EARNING A PLACE AT THE
&
OLYMPIC TRYOUTS
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
I WOULD PLATEAU A LITTLE BIT, BUT THEN
I WOULD FIGURE OUT A WAY TO GET BETTER.
THAT’S WHAT KEPT ME MOTIVATED – JUST
KEEP GETTING BETTER AND IMPROVING.”
W
hen you ask any high
Daniel progress into the remarkable athlete
school student what they
he is today. “Is he at a different level?
think about during their
Absolutely,” Chambers says. “We probably
senior year, most talk about finding
put in an average between twenty-five
work and applying to colleges, but for
and thirty hours a week on training.”
pretty close-knit group,” he says almost
laughing. “When you get us together,
Daniel Hein, senior at Sycamore High
School, the future also holds another
“He has been a captain of the high
goal – making it to the Olympics.
school swim program for the past three
you see our team spirit come through.”
years, since he was a sophomore,”
That team spirit is what brought Daniel
At a local YMCA pool, Daniel sits down to
explains Chambers. “We made an
to swimming in the first place. “When I
talk about the opportunity after wrapping
exception because Daniel has always
was eight-years-old, we won our YMCA
up a practice with his teammates. “This
shown tremendous leadership, and
State Meet, and I was really pumped
past summer at our YMCA Nationals,
his work ethic is out of this world.
up then,” he says. “After that, I was
I got the cut in the 100 backstroke, so
He’s also a great motivator—he can
motivated to just get in the water and
this June I’ll be able to try out for an
get through to other athletes when he
get my friends together as well.” Now
Olympic spot,” Daniel says humbly.
needs to, and he does a really good job
that he’s older, Daniel makes sure his
holding his teammates responsible.”
teammates see him as an example.
It’s been a lot of work to get this point.
When it comes to his role on the team,
“When I was younger, I was just
I’ve been doing double practices
Daniel takes pride in being able to bring
having fun,” Daniel says. “Now it’s
every day Monday through Friday.”
people together, and he isn’t shy about
more about technique. I try to think
“I’m hoping to drop time and improve.
the way he feels, “I really love training with
about what I can do differently, or I’ll
Head Swimming Coach Melanie Chambers
these guys. I’ve been swimming with them
ask my coaches what they think.”
has been at those practices and has seen
since I was seven-years-old, and we’re a
“Daniel works so hard that no one can
question his determination, but he’s
also a very humble and well-rounded
kid,” Chambers says while monitoring
the team’s progress from the bleachers.
“He’ll do anything you ask him to do.
He loves challenges, and he’s always
ready to accomplish a new goal.”
That desire to constantly improve is
what has helped Daniel qualify for an
Olympic tryout this June for the 100
meter backstroke, but when you ask
him how it feels, he doesn’t sway from
his honest and humble attitude. “It’ll be
a great experience,” Daniel says while
waving to his teammates as they leave
the pool. It will be a great experience
that has taken a decade to achieve. f
Where life happens. 15
I N H E A LT H
G i l v y d i s V e i n
C li n i c :
giving back
quality
of
V
aricose veins are a
debilitating problem
that many suffer from,
but they don’t need to.
Fortunately, relief from varicose veins
can be accomplished with low-risk,
minimally-invasive laser treatments at
Gilvydis Vein Clinic in Sycamore.
For Dr. Rimas Gilvydis, treating vein disorders
is a personal matter because he understands
the extreme pain and limited quality of life
brought on by venous hypertension. “When
I was in college, I started having pain and
restlessness in both my legs,” says Dr. Gilvydis.
“They would ache after standing all day. It
was varicose veins. Now when I see patients
who have constant swelling and discomfort
in their legs, I literally feel their pain.”
Aside from the immediate symptoms
of pain and swelling, varicose veins
can lead to ulcers, cellulitis, scar tissue
or blood clots, if left untreated.
16
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
life
Before treatment I really couldn’t move around, and now I’ve
been able to regain my mobility. It’s really amazing to think how
something so simple can have such a large impact.” – Patient
providing the highest quality of care and
achieving the best results for our patients.”
The treatment works by using local
anesthetic to numb an area of the leg.
Then a tiny laser is inserted into the
affected vein and used to close it
permanently with little or no discomfort.
Those receiving the treatment are often
encouraged to return to their daily tasks
immediately following the procedure.
“With the laser procedure, we’re able to
dr. Rimas Gilvydis
treat countless patients with varicose
veins and venous hypertension,” says
“It’s very important that people know vein
Dr. Gilvydis. “And now those patients are
health isn’t an aesthetic problem,” says
able to live with a better quality of life.”
Dr. Gilvydis. “If anyone is experiencing
heaviness, aching, burning, throbbing,
Dr. Gilvydis encourages anyone with
cramping, or restlessness in the legs,
visible varicose veins or the uncomfortable
they should consult with a vein doctor
• Roughly 50% of the population
will experience varicose veins or
symptoms.
• Women are at a slightly higher
risk of having varicose veins.
• The potential to get varicose
veins increases with age.
• Varicose veins are caused
by valves in the vein working
improperly, causing blood to
back-flow and pool in the leg.
TIPS FOR VEIN HEALTH
symptoms of venous hypertension to come
to prevent future health problems.”
to Gilvydis Vein Clinic for a free screening.
As an experienced physician, Dr. Gilvydis has
performed over 20,000 laser vein procedures
throughout his career. “I really enjoy my
“When it comes to your health, it’s always
best to visit an experienced vein doctor
if you have concerns. That’s why we
offer free monthly screenings, and we
work because of my personal connection
to the treatment, and I have the best staff,”
Gilvydis says with a smile. “Everyone
don’t require referrals,” he continues.
“I want people to come in and receive
• Exercise regularly.
• Manage your weight.
• Eat more fiber.
• Elevate your legs when resting.
treatment before their varicose veins
who works at the clinic is dedicated to
before
VARICOSE VEIN FACTS
lead to more serious problems.” f
after
before
after
More information can be found at GilvydisVein.com or by calling 815-981-4304
[ This story is sponsored by Gilvydis Vein Clinic ]
Where life happens.
17
Don’t Let Painful Varicose Veins
Interrupt Your Life.
If you have leg pain, aching or cramping, swollen leg veins, burning or itching legs, you
may have venous insufficiency or vein disease, a progressive medical condition. That’s
why you should see Dr. Rimas Gilvydis, one of the Midwest’s leading vein specialists.
Unlike other vein practices, Gilvydis Vein Clinic:
• Focuses exclusively on superior vein care.
• Uses state-of-the-art ultrasound to diagnose your vein problem.
• Has completed more than 20,000 in-office, minimally invasive laser vein treatments.
• Accepts insurance for most varicose vein procedures.
Screening appointments are limited. Call now!
CALL NOW TO SEE
IF YOU QUALIFY
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No doctor referral required. Covered by most insurance plans.
2127 Midlands Court, Suite 102
Sycamore, IL 60178
815-981-4304
www.GilvydisVein.com
©HS 2016
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
Come see our new Events rooms for parties of 36 or less!
1969B DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore
On The Corner Of Bethany & Sycamore Roads
Phone: (815) 756-8150
INDIY
The Ultimate Birthday Party Favor:
The DIY Candy Bar!
W ITH AS HLEY MUR CI A
Ashley Murcia is the owner/designer
of re-nest studio, a customized
home décor and personalized
party décor Etsy boutique, based
in DeKalb. In addition to creating
unique home and party décor,
Ashley also shares her work, DIY
B
irthday parties are one of the best parts of childhood. And, if you
remember birthday parties like I do, the cake, the presents, and the
pizza were always great, but I always loved the party favors! The
assortment of pencils, plastic rings, and stickers were always so much fun!
Today, party favor options have expanded beyond small toys and pencils
and have gotten colorful and sweet. One of the more popular ideas around
party favors is setting up a fun DIY Candy Bar, with an assortment of treats
tutorials, and life stories as a
for your party-goers to choose from. And, setting up your own DIY Candy
mother on her blog,
Bar is easy, fun, and a great way to have your guests pick what they’d like
alittlecreativeeveryday.blogspot.com.
to take home (and leftovers are always fun for the party hosts too!)
Setting up your own Candy Bar can be as simple, or as elaborate as you’d
like to make it. And, it’s a perfect opportunity to get creative, be unique,
and use some pieces from around the house to make it complete.
Where life happens.
19
INDIY
Where to start? Here are some tips, tricks,
and ideas to help you put your DIY Candy
Bar together for your next celebration!
CANDY AND SWEETS:
A TABLE OR COUNTERTOP:
Depending on your party’s location,
your DIY Candy Bar can be set up on a
small table, or on a kitchen countertop –
whatever works best for your party. A little
the toys in your own house! For my son’s
“Minion 5th Birthday Party,” I used one of
his large minions as the centerpiece on his
Candy Bar. Remember, you can always add
banners, party hats, confetti, and more. f
Think about the ages of the children at
tip: if your party will have lots of small
your party, what kinds of sweets they tend
children, think about setting up on a taller
to like, and also any food allergies you
table to make sure little hands only get in
JARS, CONTAINERS, AND BOWLS:
want to consider for your children or
to the sweets with the help of an adult.
Another one of my favorite, and money-
guests. I love to go with a combination
of lollipops, gumballs, individual packs
of fruit snacks, and animal crackers.
This helps to give the kids a variety to
pick from! (Personally, I stay away from
chocolate, simply because it melts
so easily.) I love searching Amazon,
Oriental Trading, and Party City for
the best places for bulk candy.
TREAT BAGS:
The options here are pretty limitless!
I love getting clear cellophane bags
from Hobby Lobby or Michaels that
have twist-ties. Have these ready at the
Candy Bar for people to pick up and fill
up. Or, you can always get themed treat
bags at Party City, Target, or online.
20
to the party décor. Plus, you already have
saving tips, is to look through your own
SCOOPS OR SPOONS:
Depending on the sweets and treats on
your Candy Bar, you might need a couple
of larger spoons or little scoops for kids
and adults to use. For unpackaged candy,
this helps keep little hands out of the
home for containers to put the sweets
in. You can use anything you wish to
set up your Candy Bar, but I love using
acrylic containers (especially for children’s
parties). You can also use Mason Jars, oldfashioned candy jars, cake plates, or small
candy and keeps things nice and healthy!
plastic buckets! Or, you can even get really
DÉCOR:
out of Legos, Mega-Bloks, or other toys!
Party décor is certainly not a must-have for
your DIY Candy Bar, but it certainly adds
some color and some pizazz! One tip I love
to share for décor is: if your party theme
is a character, first look at your child’s toy
stash. I love using my kids’ toys as party
décor, when the theme works – it helps add
so much fun, dimension, and excitement
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
creative and make your own containers
Where life happens.
21
INMEDICINE
THE SPINE CENTER AT KISHHEALTH SYSTEM
CONSERVATIVE
TREATMENTS
with
OUTSTANDING
RESULTS
K
ishHealth System, now part of
Patients receive treatment of back pain, neck
Northwestern Medicine, is collaborating
pain, and related spinal conditions utilizing non-
with physicians and providers to bring
surgical treatment options, such as physical
a comprehensive, full-service spine care center
therapy, medication, and injections. Most
to the community. The Spine Center uses
episodes of back and neck pain can be treated
evidence-based practices to manage pain,
through conservative care and a combination
increase mobility, and help patients get back to
of several conservative treatments is often
doing the activities they most enjoy. The Spine
recommended to alleviate pain and rehabilitate
Center team includes pain management and
the back and neck. “I feel this new program will
interventional physicians, nurse practitioners,
be of great benefit to the DeKalb and Sycamore
and a program coordinator working together
communities as 90 to 95 percent of all back
with the use of conservative, non-surgical
pain can be treated through a conservative
treatments and, when necessary, surgical
approach,” says Anesthesiologist Greg Arnold,
intervention. The goal is always to use the
MD, at Valley Spine and Pain Care Centers.
least invasive option to provide symptom relief.
22
“With a Spine Center Coordinator, patients
Those with pain often avoid surgery. The
benefit from having a single contact to help
use of non-surgical methods for treating a
them navigate care through multiple settings,”
wide-range of back pain and disorders will
says Dave Smith, Spine Center Coordinator.
undoubtedly improve patient satisfaction.
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
Jacinthe Malalis, DO and Chris Faubel, MD at
KishHealth System Physical Therapy Center, Sycamore
Where life happens. 23
INMEDICINE
With a Spine Center
Coordinator, patients benefit
from having a single contact to
help them navigate care through
multiple settings.”
– Dave Smith, Spine Center Coordinator
WHAT ARE
CONSERVATIVE
TREATMENTS?
Conservative treatments
focus on relieving pain and
treating spine disorders
without the use of surgery or
other invasive procedures.
“Patients deserve a full spectrum of
Physiatrist Chris Faubel, MD, at Midwest
Conservative treatments
options when dealing with back pain,”
Orthopaedic Institute, stresses the
says Physiatrist Jacinthe Malalis, DO,
importance of increasing the quality of
include the following:
at Midwest Orthopaedic Institute.
life for all patients suffering from pain.
“The Spine Center team of physicians
“Any time we can get patients back to
• Physical therapy
creates an integrated environment that
their normal life with significantly reduced
enhances each patient’s quality of care,
pain and increased function, we’re all
• Medication
benefitting from the input of various fields
thrilled,” says Dr. Faubel. “Recovery
of expertise. I think it’s wonderful that we
times are often faster, and the overall
can have an exceptional spine program
patient experience is improved when
locally, where patients know they are
medications, physical therapy, and
getting excellent care,” states Dr. Malalis.
simple pain injections are utilized.”
• Chiropractic care
• Massage therapy
• Injections at the site of pain
WHEN SHOULD I CALL
THE SPINE CENTER?
If you experience any of the
following symptoms, you could
benefit from conservative
treatment through the
KishHealth Spine Center.
• Leg weakness
• Worsening incontinence
• Worsening back pain that
does not improve with rest
• Pain which shoots down
the legs or arms
• Any pain, numbness, tingling,
or muscle weakness in the
Jeremiah Loch, CRNA
Jeannine Fair, APN
CT guided injection at Kishwaukee Hopsital
lower back, mid back, neck,
or down the arms or legs
CONTACTING TH E SPINE C ENTER: FOR MORE INFORM ATION VISIT KISHSPINECENTER.ORG
OR CALL SPINE CENTER COORDIN ATOR DAVE SMITH AT 815-748-2968. f
24
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
INHOME
CONFESSIONS OF A
REAL ESTATE BROKER
(or 5 Tips to Make Home Buying Easier!)
Where life happens. 25
INHOME
OH, THE STORIES
WE COULD TELL …
Owner, Alison Rosenow
with American Realty
B
eing in real estate certainly gives you the opportunity
to meet people from all walks of life. We see many
deals succeed and some fail. Other transactions are
fraught with drama. Since we are sworn to secrecy, we offer
these tips we feel can help you navigate the process of buying
a new home—and, just maybe, alleviate a few sticky situations.
1
Find a Realtor
Don’t just choose anyone who has a home listed that you want
to see. Do your homework, and, find one Realtor – not three
different Realtors. Establish a professional relationship with one
Realtor to help you make this important move. Do not trust just
anyone with what may be the single largest investment of your
lifetime. Select someone whom you feel is direct, open, honest
and diligent. You should know that Realtors have a fiduciary
responsibility to keep your best interests in mind above all else.
2
Know your score
Ladies and gentlemen, your credit score is still King (or
Queen). Whether you are a first time homebuyer, moving up
or downsizing, this number influences many facets of a real
estate transaction. Pull your credit report from the three major
credit reporting firms: Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. The
FTC ensures that you have access to one free credit report
per year. Resolve any issues as quickly as you can and keep
diligent records. Remember not to open any new lines of credit
or make changes that could affect your ability to secure a loan.
3
Get prequalified
Talk with a lender or mortgage broker to discuss your options for
loans. There are many programs available - some of which are
specific to your bank, your state, or your financial situation.
If your local bank does not offer mortgages, a mortgage
broker can find a loan to fit your needs. Realtors can offer you
26
some great resources if you want recommendations from
someone other than those you find in an Internet search.
4
The offer
Okay, you need to trust your Realtor here. If you do not have
your financial situation secured prior to making an offer on that
perfect home, it can lead to frustration and drama for those
involved. A zero-down loan with a house sale contingency, does
not a strong offer make. If you have a house to sell, well, it can
be a little stressful. Many people are involved in a home sale:
you, your Realtor, the banker, your attorney, home inspectors,
appraisers, underwriters, and the people on the other side of
the contract who are probably trying to buy their next home.
5
have empathy
Have empathy and be willing to give and take. This whole house
buying thing – well, it’s just plain complicated. Unless you are
making a cash offer, many people will be working behind the
scenes to make your offer solid and attractive. Seasoned Realtors
can give you crucial advice on making your offer stand out.
At the end of the day, we all have families, community
obligations, jobs and commitments. If we all play our part to the
best of our ability and keep clear, consistent communication
a key focus, we will find the process to be much easier.
Because, we all know, there is no place like home… f
[ This story is sponsored by American Realty.]
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
Customer
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Where life happens.
27
I N H E A LT H
By Katie Dawson
W
inter can be the toughest
and garages, there’s no reason it can’t
workout DVD getting scratched and
season to remain active and
extend to your fridge too. Take a good
worn? It’s time to change things up.
get out and about. Weather,
look and get rid of any expired products or
Choosing a new routine can breathe new
comfort food, and shorter days make
things that look moldy. Take stock of the
motivation into your workout. Try a new
it easy to slip on fitness and healthy
food that you currently have. Is it mostly
class at the gym, find a new DVD to try
eating. While the new year usually
processed? Does it come in packages?
out at home, or find a free workout online
brings about resolutions and goals to be
Work to eliminate those types of food
at places like FitnessBlender.com.
healthier, you might forget why you made
that resolution after a few months.
This is why spring is the perfect to time
to get back into action! The warmer
weather headed our way (eventually)
can make it easier to get outside and
renew your vigor for health and fitness.
#1 CLEAN OUT THE FRIDGE
This is the season for spring cleaning, and
while most people only focus on clearing
the clutter out of their basements, attics,
28
Spring into
Action
slowly over time and replace them with
whole foods like fresh fruit and vegetables.
Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and
oats are also a good thing to have on hand.
#3 TAKE IT OUTSIDE
You have been cooped up long enough!
It’s time to get outside and enjoy the
If you keep your fridge relatively clean and
fresh air. The weather can still be a
stocked with good-for-you food, it makes
little temperamental at the beginning of
it easier to stick to a healthier meal plan.
spring, but there are usually a few days
#2 MIX UP YOUR
EXERCISE ROUTINE
where it’s nice enough to get outdoors.
Whether you take a brisk walk with the dog,
run the trails around your neighborhood, or
Have you only been visiting the treadmill
do a little bodyweight circuit at the park
for the past few months? Is your favorite
near your house, changing your venue
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
L E M O N AS PA RAG U S PASTA
IN G R ED IE NTS
• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
the asparagus with salt and pepper.
• 1 box of whole-wheat or glutenfree pasta (bowtie or penne)
Roast the asparagus in the oven for 10 minutes
until lightly browned and crispy.
• 1 whole fresh lemon, with zest set aside
• ½ cup scallions, sliced
3 While the asparagus is cooking, heat a little olive oil
• 2 cups almond milk
in a large sauce pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the
• 3 tablespoons of whole wheat flour (or
brown rice flour for gluten-free)
scallions, garlic, and lemon zest for three minutes.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
3 Sprinkle the flour into the pan and whisk to incorporate everything.
• salt and pepper to taste
Pour in the almond milk, ½ cup at a time, whisking the whole time.
• olive oil
Cook the sauce, whisking frequently
until it starts to thicken up and is
1 Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook the pasta according to the
nice and smooth. Add the cooked
directions on the package, drain, and set aside. Line a large
pasta and stir to combine.
baking sheet with parchment paper. Rinse the asparagus
and cut off the tough ends. Arrange the asparagus on the
4 Chop the roasted asparagus
parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
into bite-size pieces and stir into
the pasta. Taste and add salt
2 Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus. Take half the
and pepper as needed. Serve
lemon and squeeze the juice over the asparagus. Sprinkle
with fresh lemon wedges.
and finally getting outside can get you
check Facebook or your Instagram account.
excited about exercise all over again.
Don’t watch TV or answer a million emails.
#4 GET ZEN
Turn on some soothing music or maybe
This is perhaps the most important tip
of all. As soon as spring hits, we feel
the need to do everything. We’ve been
hibernating, and all of the sudden, longer
days and more sunshine make us feel
like we need to go, go, go. While it’s ok
to be busy, don’t get so busy that you
have no time for yourself. Take just five
minutes every day to sit and reflect. Don’t
light a candle. Just be with your thoughts.
Maybe you take five minutes in the
morning and set your intentions for
the day, or you use your five minutes
at night to reflect on everything you’ve
accomplished. No matter when you
choose to take your five minutes, just
make sure you take them. Those five
minutes can really help to center yourself
and put your mind in the right place. f
Where life happens. 29
INPEOPLE
Tim Carlson:
Award-Winning Principles
MY FATHER TOLD ME TO FOLLOW MY HEART. NOW I
TELL PEOPLE TO FOLLOW THEIR PASSIONS AND MONEY
WILL COME. I KNOW THAT IF YOU WORK HARD ENOUGH AT
SOMETHING, YOU’LL MAKE A LIVING DOING IT.”
W
hen Syamore High School
escorted away to another room. A band
how the town of Sycamore fits into the
Principal Tim Carlson walks
breaks into the school’s fight song,
world around them, an idea Tim Carlson
through the halls of Sycamore
and Tim breaks a smile, recognizing
sees as essential to modern education.
High School, he doesn’t rush. His long
a part of himself in the students.
“From high school, I went to Kishwaukee
legs don’t even stretch. But with a sense
of familiarity, he greets students, waves at
“A lot of stuff I did when I was in high
College and then to Northern Illinois
parents, and checks in with teachers.
school helped me get my start in education,”
University, but I had influential people
Tim explains. “I was part of a high school
along the way. One of my instructors,
There’s an air that follows Tim as he enters a
assistant coach program where the high
Dianne McNealy at Kishwaukee College
classroom to watch the school’s choir prepare
school students helped the P.E. teachers
wrote me a not so nice note about how I
to leave for a state competition in Peoria.
and worked with middle school students.”
had the potential to do well in education,
but that I wouldn’t make it if I didn’t really
Standing in the back of the room, behind the
30
parents, he doesn’t interrupt. And if it wasn’t
As he walks through the halls of Sycamore
start applying myself. I took that to heart,
for his noticeably tall frame, Tim could very well
High School, Tim stops every so often
and I pinned that letter up where I could
go unnoticed behind the crescent formation
and points out the different pictures
see it throughout my college career.”
of smiling parents, all admiring a group of
of graduates who have gone on to
students elevated on a modest choir riser.
forge successful lives. Another display
“I don’t think students are different
features citizens who have served in
than they were twenty-five years ago,
The visit doesn’t last long, maybe only
the military, dating back to WWI. It’s all
but I think students today are smarter
a few minutes, and then the choir is
a statement for the students to realize
than they’ve ever been. It used to be
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
When I was working
as a substitute, I got
to see everything
from kindergarten
to calculus to choir.
I got to see great high
schools and really
rough high schools,
and I always came
back to Sycamore
saying it was one of
the best places.”
Where life happens.
31
INPEOPLE
that teachers were the holders of
is what recently led to Tim receiving
begins to set, and students arrive for
knowledge, but now teachers are
the Kishwaukee Region Illinois High
late night meetings and after-school
the facilitators of knowledge.”
School Principal of the Year Award –
activities, and as he packs up to go,
Ironically, it is this exact shift in the
recognition which he believes belongs
Tim leaves a few pieces of advice.
student-teacher relationship which
more to the community than to him. “I
helped bring about the school’s
feel very honored,” he says, “but it’s also
“To teachers I would say trust kids
most significant improvement – the
important to remember that you’re not
and like kids. To parents I would say
Professional Learning Community.
a good principal without good teachers,
trust your kids and support them,
custodians, bus drivers, assistant
even though you’ll need to make some
“The Professional Learning Community
principals, and a superintendent and
tough decisions sometimes. And to
model of education allows us to
board that supports you. I got an
students I tell them to dream big and
align all of our curriculum and help
award, but that award is more of a
chase your passion. If you work hard at
teachers to easily swap ideas. As
reflection of the institution than me.”
something, you’ll make money at it.”
our failure rates by well over fifty-
As he relaxes in his office chair,
And with that, the principal who dreams
percent in the last seven years. “
suddenly the halls seem quieter
big, places his trust in students, and
Those results combined with his
than before, although they are never
believes in his colleagues, calls it a day
unmatched dedication to students
completely silent. And as the sun
— knowing the job never really ends. f
a result, we’ve been able to reduce
32
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
Money Lesson #1:
Money doesn’t come with instructions.
And, it’s too bad because we all need to know how to spend it, save it, and borrow
it wisely. Join Money Smart Week DeKalb and many local banks, businesses,
and libraries as the financial education we can all use is brought to DeKalb, Lee,
and LaSalle Counties. Mark your calendar for Money Smart Week DeKalb, April
23, 2016 – April 30, 2016, and check out the numerous free financial education
programs available to the public!
J OI N U S I N B EC O MIN G MO NEY SMA RT
FOR A FULL LIST OF FINANCIAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES CHECK OUT MONEYSMARTWEEK.NIU.EDU
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Where life happens. 33
Kishwaukee United Way
INEDUCATION
I have a fantastic
administrative team
that I work with, and
the women I work
with in this office
really keep me on task
in a good way. We’ve
really grown together.”
34
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
Kathy Countryman:
A Career in Education &
My Red Glove Decisions
E
very morning the people of Sycamore
this choice to start their careers in a small
staffers, and parents, are the ones Kathy
drive through town, commute to
community that would affect a much larger
now refers to as her “Red Glove Decisions”
jobs, run errands, and drop children
decision – the move to Sycamore, Ill.
– inspired by a red pair of gloves she keeps,
off at school, and on their way, they pass
appropriately, in her car’s glove box.
yellow buses, stop for traffic guards, and
“I was teaching different grades, but
spot children on their way to class, never
then I went back to get my master’s in
“They belonged to my grandmother, who
thinking much about the morning routine.
administration from the University of
was a really big inspiration in my life,” Kathy
But for Kathy Countryman, Superintendent
Iowa,” Countryman explains. “Shortly
explains. “When she was sixteen, in the
of Sycamore Schools, that routine of buses,
before I graduated, my husband and I
mid l920s, my grandmother left rural Iowa
crossing guards, and students, is the result
both obtained positions in District 204 in
to attend teacher’s college. Then she went
of her hard work and careful decisions.
Naperville, but when we went to look at
to Chicago and worked at Hull-House.”
houses, the size of the community just
For Countryman, the journey to
really wasn’t what we were looking for.”
superintendent didn’t start in Sycamore;
“She lived to be ninety-nine, and when I
would visit her, I would ask her questions
in fact, it didn’t even start in education.
The couple had a hard choice to make:
about my job. She would always tell
“I graduated from the University of Iowa
Move to Naperville, and try to adopt a
me, ‘Listen. Make good decisions. Be
with a degree in mass communication
busier lifestyle, or look for something
strong. Be courageous.’ She would
and journalism,” she says.
different. Luckily, setting down roots
always tell me to follow my heart, so
soon became much easier than expected.
sometimes when I have a difficult decision
“My husband was a teacher, but when I
“We kept coming west, and we knew
to make, I take those gloves out and
finished school and was trying to find a
some people from Iowa who lived in
really think about what I need to do.”
job, I really enjoyed what he was doing.
Sycamore,” Countryman says with a
So I went back to school for my teacher
smile. “They encouraged us to come look
At a time when education faces large
certification,” she explains while still
at the town, and that’s when we decided
transitions and several challenges, more of
acknowledging how her original area of
to move here in the fall of 1995.”
the decisions Kathy has made are “Red-
study helps in her current role. “I think
Glove”, but through all of the difficulty that
my coursework in communications
While working in Naperville, Kathy and her
comes with her position, Sycamore schools
helped me a lot. It helps you think about
husband both started as teachers before
have still achieved great improvements.
how you’re communicating with people,
she became the Assistant Principal at
which is so important in education.”
Spring Brook Elementary School. “That was
“In Sycamore, the board and the teachers
a large school of a thousand students,” she
are really focused on what we call
When Kathy and her husband first started
comments, “and it was a great experience
‘customized learning’ – customizing
as teachers, the couple lived and taught
because I was able to make decisions and
learning for each student. We find that
in the community of Lone Tree, Iowa. “It
then have a conversation about them.”
with all the standardization which is
was a community under a thousand people
taking place, there really is a barrier
and was similar to Sycamore in some
Those decisions, the difficult ones that
to seeing students as individuals,
ways,” she recalls. Coincidentally, it was
affect the lives of students, teachers,
so we focus on making sure that
Where life happens. 35
INEDUCATION
Being a good leader is knowing who you
are at the core, and then being able to stop,
pause, and make that Red-Glove decision.”
our students are able to explore their
the parents expect that we will provide
people how it’s going to be because we
passions,” Kathy says, with a proud smile
an authentic learning environment.”
need to work together as a team.”
beginning to stretch across her face.
“We have late starts on Thursdays, at the
“It’s always been about keeping children
high school, so teachers can get together,
“Right now we have our ‘Academies’ –
safe, making sure they learn, making
meet, and discuss how to improve education
opportunities where students meet local
sure they have healthy relationships,
in the community. We work to determine
community members and leaders before
and then getting to know the students
what students should be learning in today’s
school starts. For example, our ‘Business
and setting a goal for each one.”
world, but we ask about what students want
Leadership Academy,’ which has been
to learn,” Kathy explains. “We want to have
operating for a few years now, connects
And while progress is being made, Kathy is
that conversation because some of the best
our high school students to local business
quick to acknowledge the contributions of
ideas we have come from our students,” she
leaders. And our ‘Health Academy’,
those around her, noting that Sycamore’s
says enthusiastically. After all, it is this type
which partners with KishHealth System,
schools would not be where they are
of collaborative learning, the type which
connects students with a health instructor
without the help of everyone in the
brings education outside of the classroom,
at the high school to earn credits through
community. “I tell all the new teachers,
that Kathy Countryman is so proud of.
Kishwaukee College,” she explains. “The
‘You don’t work for Sycamore schools. You
goal is to allow a student who is considering
work for the community of Sycamore.’”
a career in in a certain field to really
learn what that career might look like.”
meet with local leaders, or cross an
To help teachers succeed at their jobs,
intersection on their way to the high school,
Kathy has worked with educators to
are dropped off by their parents, or learn
As she notes the accomplishments of
make sure their needs are addressed
through an after school activity, you may
the school district, Kathy also reflects on
and not ignored, never underestimating
see Kathy Countryman driving to a meeting.
the similarities between conversations
the need to listen as well as decide.
And while you may not be able to see them,
happening in 1980s rural Iowa and modern
36
So, on any given school day, as students
there’s a pair of red gloves riding with
day Sycamore. “When I look back at where
“I try to keep a dialogue open with all
her— helping her make the tough decisions
I started in Iowa, I think a lot is still the
of my teachers because this isn’t a
that have grown Sycamore’s community of
same in education. The teachers and
monologue,” she says. “I can’t just tell
education and make it what it is today. f
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
INKIDS
THROWING the
PERFECT KIDS
Birthday
Party
1st Birthday
For most new moms, the temptation to go
overboard is always strong when it comes to
planning the first birthday. We tend to believe
that this birthday will set the tone for all other
birthdays in the future, so we better make
this one count!
The truth is that the focus of the birthday
won’t remember the party, and that many of
your guests will probably be friends and family
members who are already happy to be a part
your celebration. Going overboard isn’t necessary
when you consider that many of the people
attending the party are the people who helped
raise you.
This party is more about celebrating your first
year of being a parent, and less about actually
celebrating a birthday. So incorporate that feeling
into the celebration! Allow the people who are
celebrating your growing family to really share in
the event. Let people bring food or refreshments.
Don’t decorate alone. At most, plan some
activities for older kids who might come, but if
you’ve started checking the cost of petting zoos,
you may need to start scaling down.
Where life happens.
37
INKIDS
2nd Birthday
Second birthdays are slightly different.
Children can walk around and join in
activities, but they also get restless fairly
easily. Try to set up an area with activities,
so children can entertain themselves.
Your guest list will still probably have several
adults, but those adults may now have children
of their own. After two years of raising a child,
your group of friends may have expanded, so
you’ll need to coordinate a bit with your spouse
and maybe some family members to make sure
people are getting introduced while also making
sure the kids are remaining entertained.
Adolescent & Preteen Birthday
3rd Birthday
Around this age, parties may get a little smaller.
Your child may only want a party with a small
It’s probably no surprise that things will change
group of friends and inviting the entire class is
only slightly when your child turns three years
just not an option anymore.
old. Three-year-olds still need some guidance
when it comes to playing in groups, so games
where an adult can take the lead or dances
like the Hokey-Pokey will help keep your
guests interested.
Your child may still want to have their party at an
6th, 7th & 8th Birthday
As children get older, suddenly rules become
so much easier to follow and understand.
Children at this age won’t be able to hold
You can plan for more complicated games
their attention for very long, so try to plan
at home, or you can plan to take the party
some small activities that can be spaced out
out to activities like mini-golf or laser-tag.
throughout the party. It might be a good idea
to have a short movie (maybe themed with the
Because kids are starting to form into social
party) to keep everyone’s attention as parents
groups, you might find yourself in more
start to say goodbye. There’s nothing worse
of a chaperone role and less of leadership
than being taken out of a game of Simon Says
position. You’ll still need to make sure things
just when you’re about to win.
are going smoothly, but you probably won’t
need to be the center of attention.
arcade that serves pizza, but they also may want
to have friends over to spend the night. Do what
you feel most comfortable with, and don’t feel
bad about calling other parents and asking their
opinion as well.
If you do decide to let some children stay the
night, you can do a camp out in the backyard
or a movie night. Remember that junior-high is
right around the corner, so your child and their
friends are stuck between acting like kids and
wanting to act like adults. f
See page 19 for DIY Ideas by Ashley Murcia
4th & 5th Birthday
These ages might be a little bit more difficult
because children can understand a lot more,
but taking turns might be still be hard for
some. Planning activities and games that don’t
require taking turns, such as scavenger hunts
DON’T GO OVERBOARD
It not only helps your pocket, but throwing an extravagant
or craft tables, help to keep children interested.
party that neither you or anyone can afford just sets in
If you do plan a crafting project, make sure you
motion birthday competition. Remember, children won’t even
have enough materials for twice the amount
of children that will be attending – that way
be able to remember their earliest birthdays, so wait until
if someone needs extra materials, they won’t
they’re older for the really special gifts and celebrations.
need to “borrow” from their neighbor.
38
tip:
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
HILLCREST COVENANT CHURCH PRESENTS
AT T H E EGY P T I A N T H E AT R E
Saturday
April 9th 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy comedy for a cause with Bob Stromberg!
Bob Stromberg is a funny man. For over thirty years he has traveled the
world performing his very unique and perfect blend of standup, story
and shtick. He’s the co-author and an original star of the megahit
theatrical comedy Triple Espresso (A Highly Caffeinated Comedy),
which has been seen by over two million people from San Diego to the
West End of London. The Chicago Sun Times called Bob, “…a
mesmerizing physical comedian.” The London Times called him,
“…a genuinely funny man.”
Bob Stromberg will appear at The Egyptian Theatre,
135 N. Second St., on Saturday, April 9th at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets for the event are $10 for general seating, $15
for premium seating and can be purchased through
the Egyptian Theatre Box Office (egyptiantheatre.org)
or through Hillcrest Covenant Church.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Make a Difference DeKalb
County/Feed My Starving Children organization and the Network of Nations.
Hillcrest Covenant Church | (815) 756-5508 | hccdekalb.org | [email protected]
I N H I STO RY
Building the Past:
DeKalb’s Connection
to the Modern Drone
A
s an enthusiastic group of hobbyists prepares
to take flight with the new drones they received
this past holiday season, they may not be aware
of how those remote controlled toys have their roots
in a secret military operation based in DeKalb.
The story begins over 70 years ago, in 1942, when the U.S.
Navy built the DeKalb Airport to test a new, top secret weapon—
remote controlled drones. “It was all top secret information.
Nobody knew what the Navy was doing,” explains Tom
Cleveland, Airport Manager at the DeKalb Taylor Municipal.
For Cleveland, a clear picture of that top secret program is
now coming together in a hangar just steps away from his
office. There he houses the fuselage of the first unmanned
attack aircraft known as the TDR-1. “It was just a case of
being in the right place at the right time,” says Cleveland.
“I was at a conference talking with people from the
Prairie Aviation Museum, and I started telling them
40
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
The only TDR-1 which has been rebuilt is stored
in the National Naval Aviation Museum.
IN 1942 THEY BUILT
THIS PILOTLESS DRONE
WITH TWIN ENGINES AND A
TV CAMERA IN THE NOSE.
THE NAVY TESTED THEM
HERE AT THE AIRPORT,
AND THEN THEY TOOK
THEM APART, BOXED THEM
UP, AND SENT THEM TO
THE SOUTH PACIFIC.”
A test pilot flying high with the TDR program.
about the TDR. They told me they had a fuselage
just sitting in a corner. I told them I was interested
in it, and now we have it in our hangar.”
During WWII the TDR was operated with the help of a
small television screen, a camera, and the help of other
pilots. Because the unmanned aircraft didn’t have the
same range that modern drones do, an operator sat in
A TDR-1 plane sits fully constructed at the DeKalb Airport.
a TBM Avenger airplane, controlling the TDR from miles
away with the use of rotary phone system—technology,
which for the time, was considered highly advanced.
As of today, the only completely reconstructed TDR-1
model hangs in the National Naval Aviation Museum
in Pensacola, but recently, Cleveland and local drone
expert Roger Keys have teamed up to rebuild this
significant piece of DeKalb history. Keys has currently
obtained a pilot’s cockpit and wings from a TDR-1
model, and the two men hope to eventually display
A TDR drone piece held at the DeKalb Municipal Airport hangar.
a reconstructed TDR aircraft in DeKalb County.
History is an odd thing. Sometimes we can’t imagine how
our lives fit into it, and other times we have a perfect picture
of how and where our history comes from. Today, drones
still have their military applications, but they are also
used to fight fires, grow crops, and even sell real estate.
As history has now become cyclical, DeKalb residents are
now able to fly their own drones in the same skies where
the TDR-1 took its initial test flights so many decades ago.
A fleet of drones waits at the DeKalb airport. Their lightweight
frames, designed mostly from wood, helped when transporting the
drones across the country.
Where life happens. 41
I N H I STO RY
A TDR being retrieved from the
water, possibly after a test flight.
Recreational
DRONE SAFETY TIPS
1. Follow community-based safety guidelines,
as developed by organizations such as the
Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA).
2. Fly no higher than 400 feet and remain below
any surrounding obstacles when possible.
3. Keep your sUAS (drone) in eyesight at all times.
4. Remain well clear of and do not interfere with
manned aircraft operations, and you must see and
avoid other aircraft and obstacles at all times.
5. Do not intentionally fly over unprotected persons or
moving vehicles, and remain at least 25 feet
away from individuals and vulnerable property.
8. Do not fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
9. Ensure the operating environment is safe and
that the operator is competent and proficient
in the operation of the sUAS (drone).
10. Do not fly near or over sensitive infrastructure
or property.
11. Check and follow all local laws and ordinances
before flying over private property.
12. Do not conduct surveillance or photograph persons
in areas where there is an expectation of privacy
without the individual’s permission. f
6. Contact the airport or control tower before
flying within five miles of an airport.
7. Do not fly in adverse weather conditions such
as in high winds or reduced visibility.
42
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
FOR MORE SAFETY TIPS,
VISIT WWW.FAA.GOV/UAS
AND KNOWBEFOREYOUFLY.ORG.
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Where life happens. 43
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
402 MANNING DRIVE | DEKALB, IL 60115
Located South of Rte. 23/South 4th Street & I-88
INBOOKS
INVIRONMENTS
MAGAZINE
BOOK CLUB
[InVironments introduces new books each issue as part of its
Magazine Book Club, in cooperation with the DeKalb Public Library
and its executive director, Dee Coover. If you’d like to share your
thoughts about this month’s book for publication in the May-June
issue, send them to [email protected] by May 1.]
Recommended Reading:
“Winnie: The True Story of the Bear
Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh”
T H I S MO NT H’S BOOK
S
ally Walker is a DeKalb resident
who has written over 50
children’s non-fiction books,
including: “Written in Bone”, “Freedom
Song”, and “The Vowel Family.”
She has won numerous awards
for all of her work and has recently
received recognition for Winnie
from the Illinois Reading Council.
The book uses heart-warming
illustrations and classic storytelling in
combination with real-life photographs
to tell the story of a baby bear who
was bought at a Canadian train
station by Harry Colebourn.
Aside from being a soldier, Colebourn
was also a veterinarian who took the
cub with him to England for training
camp. The bear eventually become
the regiment’s mascot and was
Because it uses both storytelling and
history, this book is a great read for young
children or parents who are looking to
share a book with their children.”
affectionately named Winnipeg after
the regiment’s hometown in England.
When Colebourn went into battle, he
stories grew into what we now know as
in the London Zoo. It’s also amazing to
placed the baby bear in the London
the adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh.
consider the unbelievable coincidence of
Zoo, and that’s when a boy named
the author A.A. Milne taking his son to
Christopher Robin came and played
I was thoroughly charmed by the illustrations
see the famous bear and then creating the
with Winne. The boy’s father, A. A.
and writing, but I was also interested in the
stories that became Winnie-the-Pooh. f
Milne, saw the friendship between his
history of a bear who went to training camp
son and the bear and began telling
with soldiers and was allowed to stay and
– Dee Coover, Library Director
stories about Winnie to his son. Those
play with the soldiers before being placed
at DeKalb Public Library
Where life happens. 45
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
march
12 – 21 “Oliver!” the Musical
19 Breakfast with the Bunny
9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. For more information,
please visit dekalbcountycvb.com.
19 The 38th Annual Easter in the
Country Craft Fair – Sandwich
Three schools full of craft vendors. Shuttle
service is provided. No strollers allowed.
For more information, visit, sandwich-il.org.
Every Sunday, Friday, Saturday
CCT proudly presents the musical “Oliver!”, a musical adaptation
of Charles Dickens’s classic tale of an orphan who runs away from
the orphanage and hooks up with a group of boys trained to be
pickpockets by an elderly mentor. This show features talented
actors from all over DeKalb County. Consider yourself invited!
Visit egyptiantheatre.org for more information.
31 – April 1 NIU School of Theatre &
Dance Presents: The Balcony Scene
Alvin lives happily shut up in his Chicago high-rise
apartment with life’s comforts and amenities delivered to
his door. However, when an optimistic high energy woman
with a potentially dangerous ex-boyfriend moves in to the
17 – 20
The Stage Coach Players
Present “Mary Poppins”
The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910
and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have
apartment with an adjoining balcony to his, Alvin’s world is
turned upside down. Thursday, March 31, 7:30 p.m., Friday,
April 1, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 2, 2 p.m., Saturday, April
2, 7:30 p.m., Sunday, April 3, 2 p.m.
sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their
doorstep. 7:30 p.m. March 17-18, 2 and 7:30 p.m. March 19, 2 p.m.
april
March 20, 2 p.m. For more information, visit stagecoachers.com.
46
7 – 16 NIU School of Theatre
& Dance Presents: Blithe Spirit
9 Bob Stromberg: Comedy
This 1941 play by Noel Coward has been a
Bob Stromberg is a funny man. For over
smash comedy hit on London and Broadway
thirty years he has traveled the world
stages multiple times. This much-revived
performing his very unique and perfect
classic serves up an “improbable farce”
blend of standup, story and shtick.
about a man stalked by his dead ex-wife.
The Chicago Sun Times called Bob,
Thursday, April 7, 7:30 p.m., Friday, April
“…a mesmerizing physical comedian.”
8, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 9, 7:30 p.m.,
The London Times called him, “…a
Sunday, April 10, 2 p.m., Thursday, April
genuinely funny man.” Presented
14, 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 15, 7:30 p.m.,
by: Hillcrest Covenant Church. Visit
Saturday, April 16, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. For
egyptiantheatre.org for more information.
more information, visit niu.edu/theatre.
with Character
7 – May 20 NIU Art
10 – 16 DeKalb Chamber
Restaurant Week
Enjoy two exhibitions: Between the
the inaugural DeKalb Chamber Restaurant
World Wars (1920-1940) Women’s
Week beginning April 10 and concluding
Fashion: An Amalgamation of Movements
April 16, 2016. The week will feature
and Events & Art Deco is…
specials from participating restaurants in
For more information, visit
the DeKalb and Sycamore area. For more
niu.edu/artmuseum.
information, visit dekalb.org/wcevents.
Deco Ara Exhibition
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
Join the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce for
may
8 – 10 Sundays at
Sandwich Antique Show
A monthly market of quality antiques and collectibles, crafts and garden held at
the Sandwich Fairgrounds. Parking is free, adult admission remains at $5, children
12 and under free, and food is available from several popular vendors. Come and
join us under the trees at the historic Sandwich Fairgrounds and discover the many
treasures and hard to find items our dealers bring to you. For more information visit
sundayatsandwichantiques.com
13 – 14 NIU Commencement
The 2016 NIU Commencement will be held
at the NIU Convocation Center on May
13th and 14th. Guest tickets will be used
for the May ceremonies. Students can
pick up guest tickets at the Convocation
Center Ticket Office (Entrance 2)
beginning Wednesday, May 11th through
Friday May 13th. Visit the corresponding
graduation page for additional information
Undergrad – Graduate School. For
more information visit niuconvo.com
17 Theresa Caputo at the
29 – 30 Cortland
NIU Convocation Center
Community Wide Garage Sales
Theresa Caputo, from TLC’s hit show,
Community-wide garage sales through
“Long Island Medium” will be appearing
the town of Cortland. For more
live at the NIU Convocation Center in
information visit cortlandil.org
DeKalb on Sunday, April 17th at 7 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.
com, via phone at 800-745-3000, or at the
30 “Star Wars” Day
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Convocation Center box office located
Star Wars™ fans will get a chance to
at 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy. Purchasing a
experience SW Extravaganza 2016
ticket does not guarantee a reading.
at the DeKalb Public Library.
23 The Taste Presented by
Joseph F. Glidden Homestead
Around 40 local home chefs cooking
their own family recipes to raise money
for the Glidden Homestead. Silent
auction items. Cash bar. For more
information visit gliddenhomestead.org.
[Items for the May/June issue
(covering May 16 - June 15), must
be submitted by, April 1 online at:
invironmentsmag.com/submit-event.]
Where life happens.
47
48
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
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Where life happens. 49
50
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016
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Where life happens.
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MARCH-APRIL 2016