Sycamore will paint the town red and black from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 11, in support of NIU Night.
Visitors are encouraged to wear Huskie gear, meet NIU athletes and get their autographs, participate in mini-sport games and have their pictures taken with Victor E. Huskie. NIU STEM Outreach also will provide hands-on activities demonstrating technology and intriguing science phenomena.
Live music will be provided by a steel drum duo from the NIU School of Music. Several giveaways – including tickets – are planned.
“Many NIU alumni, faculty and employees live here in Sycamore, myself included. NIU is an important part of our community as it offers a quality education, has a direct impact on economic development and provides entertainment opportunities,” Sycamore City Manager Brian Gregory said.
“We see this event as a way for NIU to showcase a few of its many assets in an interactive family-friendly setting in downtown Sycamore,” Gregory added. “We aim to create ‘win-win’ situations for all involved: visitors, businesses and event participants.”
“NIU supports the Sycamore community and other municipalities in our service region because this is where our students, faculty and staff live and work, and because our overall purposes and paths to success are inextricably joined,” said Bill Nicklas, vice president for Public Safety and Community Relations at NIU. “The common denominator is imagination, a willingness to learn, and an inclination to cooperate – all else is secondary. In these matters, Sycamore has long been a willing and equal partner.”
“We are excited about this event in Sycamore,” said Christian Spears, acting director of Athletics. “Our coaches and student-athletes will be present, and we hope this initiative strengthens our partnership with the City of Sycamore to better engage our local communities into all things Huskie Athletics and NIU.”
After Tuesdays on the Town, a free outdoor movie will be shown on the big screen at dusk. The whole family can experience Summer on State on the corner of Somonauk and Elm streets. “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax” is presented by Kishwaukee Community Hospital.
Tuesdays on the Town occur on the second Tuesday of each month through September to provide family-friendly activities. Downtown businesses will stay open late and feature special offers.
For more information on events in Sycamore throughout the summer, visit discoversycamore.com.
