Huskies on Parade:
Frequently Asked Questions
Please see FAQs below or click this link to download a pdf copy of FAQs
What is HUSKIES ON PARADE?
HUSKIES ON PARADE celebrates the bond between Northern Illinois University and the greater DeKalb/Sycamore community. With the participation and generous sponsorship of individuals, local businesses and organizations, brightly painted Huskies will enliven the landscape and form numerous points of interest for sidewalks and storefronts all over town this summer and fall.
This uplifting public art project seeks to capture the vibrancy of the communiversity – the united community and university. Fiberglass Huskies will be transformed into creative representations of the unique attributes of the DeKalb/Sycamore region. By showing our community’s creativity and Huskie pride, we will delight and entertain residents, attract visitors, and have fun with art throughout 2008.
How many Huskies will there be?
We are not limiting the number of artist-embellished, fiberglass Huskies that will be placed throughout the DeKalb/Sycamore Region. The more the merrier!
Who is involved in developing and planning the program?
HUSKIES ON PARADE is being coordinated by a group of community volunteers, all of whom are dedicated to acknowledging and enhancing the bond between NIU and the community. They are also dedicated to helping the community have a great time!
How long will the program last?
We will enjoy the Dog Days of Summer as dogs arrive in “litters” throughout June and July, to be decorated by local artists. The first litter of decorated Huskies will be placed throughout the community by August of 2008 and the event will conclude in conjunction with Homecoming activities at Northern Illinois University in October of 2008. We hope to see some Huskies around the community for years to come!
How large are the Huskies? How much do they weigh? What are they made of?
The Huskie is 40" tall and will weigh approximately 250 pounds when placed on and secured to a concrete slab. The Huskie Pup is 20" tall. The Huskies are made of fiberglass and will be sealed with automotive clear coating when the artists are finished painting them. This coating will protect them from weather. Those who would like a more permanent Huskies can take advantage of our concrete option for the 40" dog.
How does an Artist apply to participate?
Artists wishing to be included in the approved portfolio for sponsors seeking artists may obtain an application from the HUSKIES ON PARADE website (artists click this link for an application). Completed applications should include one or more designs for a Huskie with a matching Pup that the artist would use if selected as a participating artist.
How will the Artists be selected?
The HUSKIES ON PARADE Committee reviews all the artists’ applications and selects those that will be included in the Portfolio of Artists. A design from the Portfolio of Artists must be selected for production by a sponsor in order for an artist to participate.
Will the artists be paid for their work?
Yes, artists are paid a commission of $300 that includes money for supplies. Sponsors pay the artists directly.
What if I have my own artist?
Sponsors with their own artist must still submit a design for approval.
Do drawings need to be submitted with the Sponsorship Agreement?
No, drawings will be accepted after a paid sponsorship is received. However, since the Huskies will be arriving throughout the summer weeks, the sooner a drawing is submitted and approved, the quicker a sponsor will receive the Huskies for embellishment.
What if I need an artist?
HUSKIES ON PARADE will host an event on June 18, 2008 at which time paid sponsors and approved artists can meet and review designs. The portfolio of artists will also be available at www.huskiesonparade.com. Please note: Sponsors in need of an artist make their own arrangements and pay their artist directly. All designs must be approved by the HUSKIES ON PARADE Committee.
Who can sponsor the Huskies?
Any individual, group, organization, or business may sponsor a Huskie.
Where will the Huskies be placed?
Huskies will be placed throughout DeKalb/Sycamore. Sponsors are responsible for obtaining approvals for placement of Huskies on public or private property. HUSKIES ON PARADE can help direct you to the appropriate authorizing agency.
Is a sponsorship fee tax deductible?
A pass-through fund has been established with the DeKalb County Community Foundation to administer funds for HUSKIES ON PARADE. As a
501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, all qualified contributions made to the DeKalb County Community Foundation are fully deductible. However, due to the numerous packages available through HUSKIES ON PARADE, varying goods and services may be received in return for sponsorship opportunities. The value of these goods and services will be determined and acknowledged in a written statement upon receipt of sponsorship payments. The Internal Revenue Service requires that the qualified portion of charitable contributions be reduced by this amount.
What will happen to the Huskies at the end of the program?
HUSKIES ON PARADE will culminate during NIU’s Homecoming weekend, when the decorated dogs will ride proudly in the Homecoming Parade. The Huskie pups will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to the February 14 Scholarship Fund. We hope many Huskies will continue to be displayed throughout the region for years to come. Those who would like a more permanent Huskie should opt for the concrete version.
When do I get my Huskie?
Litters of Huskies will arrive throughout the summer. Once your sponsorship has been paid and your design has been approved, you will be notified of when your Huskie will be available. If you have specific timing needs, please let us know.