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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2026 • S h awLo c a l .co m

FLU CASES ON THE RISE

Not too late to get vaccinated against contagious viral illness, doctor says / 6

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026 MIDWEEK

2 ShawLocal.com 1985 DeKalb Ave. Sycamore, IL 60178 833-584-NEWS Office hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday SUBSCRIBER SERVICES 866-979-1053 customer-support@shawmedia.com 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, closed Sunday SUBSCRIPTIONS The MidWeek is delivered free of charge to households throughout DeKalb County every Wednesday. Those who do not wish to receive delivery may contact customer service at 866-979-1053, or subscriptions@shawsuburban.com, to request a delivery stop. SUBMIT NEWS readit@midweeknews.com CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com

DeKalb church’s overnight warming shelter needs more volunteers Overnight shelter open Saturday through March 15 By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of DeKalb is seeking community volunteers to help run its overnight warming center, which reopens for the season on Saturday. The free shelter for those in need is in its third year of operation. Volunteers will receive training and then be asked to sign up for 4-hour shifts from 5 to 9 p.m., 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., 1 to 5 a.m., and 5 to 8:30 a.m. each night through March 15, according to a news release. Those who wish to volunteer for shifts at the center or provide meals can email

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LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

LEGAL NOTICES midweeklegals@shawlocal.com

DeKalb Township to offer monthly legal consultations

RETAIL ADVERTISING lshaw@shawmedia.com OBITUARIES midweekobits@shawlocal.com Editor Emily Ayers 815-526-4411 eayers@shawmedia.com The Midweek and ShawLocal.com are a division of Shaw Media. All rights reserved. Copyright 2026

The DeKalb Township will partner with Prairie State Legal Services to offer monthly legal consultations to senior citizens and income-eligible residents. The free consultations will be held from noon to 4 p.m. the third Tuesday of the

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uucdwarmingcenter@gmail.com. The shelter is located at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of DeKalb at 158 N. Fourth St. The mission of the center is to provide a safe, warm and welcoming overnight haven for individuals and families who are unhoused and lacking adequate heat, and to provide a sense of belonging. Neighbors who are food insecure may also stop by for a meal without staying the night. In 2025, 87 people received services, amounting to 1,112 meals and overnight stays total. In January 2024, the church’s board approved opening a free overnight warming shelter in response to a proposal from Marreen Buntaine, director of the Community Empowerment Campaign and Dan Kenney, a member of the congregation. “With recent cuts to federal and local

assistance programs such as SNAP and an ever-rising cost of living, we expect there to be a significant increase in the need for our services this year. “It is at the core of our belief system to serve all those who may need us, regardless of their background or circumstances,” Kenney said in a news release. Since then, the center has offered services to people without homes and those without adequate heating during the coldest nights of the year. This year, the church’s Board of Trustees implemented a more formal structure of volunteer leadership with a team of five dedicated co-managers, who have worked to improve center operations in preparation for Saturday’s opening. These developments include more coordination with local agencies, while staying with the core mission of providing warmth, nutrition and rest to those who need it.

month beginning Jan. 20 at the township building, 2323 S. Fourth St. The consultations eligibility will be based on factors including the legal issue’s nature, age, legal status and income. Prairie State Legal Services assists qualifying residents with civil legal issues such as involuntary discharge from

nursing facilities, employment-related issues, public benefits denial or reduction and eviction. Appointments are encouraged. Walk-ins will be allowed based on availability. To request an appointment, call 815-7588282. – Shaw Local News Network

ON THE COVER Illinois data shows that flu cases among children are on the rise this season, with physicians pointing to a new strain that’s more contagious than last year. See story, page 6. Shaw Local News Network file photo

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State Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, talks July 11, 2025, during her town hall at at Northern Illinois University. Briel will be hosting town halls later this year in Oglesby and Utica.

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SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com State Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, recently announced that select Illinois community colleges are eligible to apply for a grant funding advanced workforce training facilities. The facilities will equip students for high-demand manufacturing and clean-energy production jobs. “Community colleges offer academic lifelines for students seeking affordable, quality education,” Briel said in a news release. “It’s exciting that these local schools now have an opportunity to build out modern workforce facilities that meet the moment for today’s in-demand jobs. “This type of investment will open doors for the intellectually curious who can’t or don’t want to travel far for college. I hope that the community colleges in our local area take advantage of this wonderful opportunity and apply.”

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

DeKalb library to host sip n’ sew program Jan. 18

The DeKalb Public Library will offer a program for adults to sew a coffee cozy for a mug. The free program will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Jan. 18 in the library’s 309 Creative makerspace, 309 Oak St. Attendees will be able to learn about machine and hand sewing basics. Participants can bring a mug for sizing. Snacks, tea and coffee will be served. Due to limited seats, the program is first-come, first-served. No registration is required. For information, email ambers@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2851.

The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity made $24 million available for community colleges outside the Chicago area to create six manufacturing training academies. The goal is to foster development and expand training for high-demand jobs in food processing, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, quantum computing and microelectronics and ag tech. “With technology ever changing, it’s more important than ever that we give our next workforce the tools they need to succeed,” Briel said. “When we invest in our community colleges here at home, we’re directly investing in the success of that next generation.” Community colleges can receive grants ranging from $3 million to $6 million. Cook and the collar county colleges will not be eligible. For information or to apply, visit dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities or email CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov.

DeKalb library to hold 2D animation program Jan. 16

Adults, teens and tweens can learn how to create a character throwing an object during a 2D animation program at the DeKalb Public Library. The free program will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Jan. 16 in the library’s 309 Creative makerspace, 309 Oak St. Attendees can animate a character throwing a snowball. Paper and pencils will be provided. Due to limited space, the program is first-come, first-served. For information, email isaacl@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2851. – Shaw Local News Network

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026 MIDWEEK

DeKalb County Community Foundation accepting spring grant applications SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com The DeKalb County Community Foundation is inviting nonprofit and public-sector organizations to apply for the latest round of grant funding to support programs that serve local residents. Learn more about the spring 2026 Community Needs Grants and Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants, or apply online at dekalbccf.org/ grant-programs. Community Needs Grants support the capital needs of local nonprofit and public-sector organizations. Last year, this grant program provided $228,520 to address needs and support projects in DeKalb County. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. March 1. Funding is made possible through ongoing donor generosity to Community Impact Funds, Field of Interest Funds and Donor Advised Funds at the Community Foundation. Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants support music education for nonprofit and public-sector organizations in the Chicago area. Preference

Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation

The Voluntary Action Center buying the Meals on Wheels program a new delivery vehicle with a community foundation grant. is given to organizations serving DeKalb County residents due to Wurlitzer’s local heritage. Last year, this grant program provided $241,400 to

support music education. The applica- the Community Foundation. tion deadline is 11:59 p.m. March 1. For information on grant programs Funding is made possible through the or additional assistance, email grants@ Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund at dekalbccf.org or call 815-748-5383.

5 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Photo provided by DeKalb School District 428

Billy Hueramo, the DeKalb school district’s director of teaching and learning for elementary education, was announced as the district’s likely next superintendent on Dec. 23, 2025.

DeKalb School District approves new superintendent

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com In an emotional speech last week, Billy Hueramo accepted his newly approved contract as superintendent of DeKalb School District 428. His first day in his new role will be July 1. Hueramo took to the podium at a special school board meeting Jan. 5 to express gratitude to everyone who entrusted him with taking on the job as the district’s next superintendent. “I just want to thank everyone,” Hueramo said. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity.” Hueramo will assume a position currently filled by Minerva Garcia-Sanchez, who remains under contract with the district through June 30.

Garcia-Sanchez decided not to renew her contract last year. The agreement, as unanimously approved this week, will allow Hueramo to assume the position of superintendent and is for three years, running through June 30, 2029. The contract shows that Hueramo will be paid an annual salary of $215,000. He also will receive employee health insurance benefits. Hueramo will be entitled to up to 20 working days of paid vacation time every year, in addition to 15 sick days and four personal leave days, the contract shows. The agreement stipulates that he will be subject to annual performance reviews. Fighting back tears, Hueramo gave a special shoutout to his mom. “It’s hard not to cry with my mom here,” Hueramo said. “Thank you. Thank you.” Hueramo gave thanks to everyone who has supported him. “I’m very blessed to be able to be in the position that I am in,” he said. “All of you who have been part of this journey know who you are.”

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026 MIDWEEK

Flu cases, especially among children, on rise this season It’s not too late to get flu shot, and other things to know, according to a physician By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

and MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Four DeKalb County residents have been hospitalized and placed in intensive care units because of the flu since the beginning of December, according to DeKalb County health officials. In a provided statement, Stacia Runge, the DeKalb County Public Health Department’s director of community health and prevention, said three DeKalb County residents were admitted into the ICU in December, and another was admitted after the start of the new year. The Illinois Department of Public Health reported on Jan. 5 that an Illinois child had died from the flu – the state’s first influenza death in a child this respiratory illness season. Flu is on the rise in Illinois, the nation and DeKalb County. The spread of influenza, the virus that causes the flu, in Illinois has climbed to the highest category used by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to describe viral activity. The program director of the McGaw Northwestern Family Medicine Residency at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva, Dr. Santina Wheat, said the current flu season could be worse, at least in some ways, than last year’s. “We did see a pretty bad flu season last year,” Wheat said. “Unfortunately, we are seeing the same thing this year and maybe with higher numbers, actually.” Before the new year began, the percentage of hospital admissions for the flu in the Rockford and West Chicago Health regions had hit seasonal peaks above the high-water marks of the 2024-2025 flu season, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard. The flu, a seasonal respiratory illness, was responsible for 8.3% of all hospital admissions in the Rockford health region during the final full week of 2025, which ended on Dec. 27,

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Four DeKalb County residents have been hospitalized and placed in intensive care units because of the flu since the beginning of December, according to DeKalb County health officials. according to the data dashboard. DeKalb County, as well as Boone, Carroll, Jo Daviess, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside and Winnebago counties are included in the Rockford health region. DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties are organized into the West Chicago health region. In that region between Dec. 21 and Dec. 27, 6.3% of hospital admissions were for the flu, state data shows.

Despite being almost halfway through the typical flu season, Wheat said someone who hasn’t received an up-to-date flu shot should still consider getting one. She recommends a yearly flu shot to her patients from the fall until March. AP file photo

Children higher risk for more serious flu cases

Children are among those most likely to need emergency care for the flu, state data shows. Wheat, a mother herself, said she encourages her children to follow habits that may reduce contact with the virus, which is spread through respiratory droplets. She said she makes sure her children wash their hands often and encourages them to touch high-contact areas, such as doorknobs, with a sleeve or paper towel. Teaching children not to habitually touch their faces is another way that parents can help keep their children safe, she said. Most students, from grade school to college, did not attend class over the final 11 days of 2025, when northern Illinois counties saw an increase in flu-related emergency room visits and hospital admissions. However, that changed with the new year. Stephanie Condon, DeKalb School District 428’s health services manager,

said she hasn’t noticed an uptick in flu activity in DeKalb schools since students returned to classes this week after the holiday break. “The timing is off because we got back from [winter] break, so kids are just coming back,” Condon said. “They haven’t really noticed a difference yet. I know there’s a lot of stuff in the news about flus on the rise, but we haven’t really noticed a huge uptick or anything.” Condon said it’s tough to gauge why students may be out of school at times. “We don’t always know,” Condon said. “People don’t call in their students, or they don’t have to tell us they have the flu. Maybe they’re sick, but we don’t know why.” Wheat may know why. She said, from her view as a doctor, this year’s flu strain has been more contagious but less likely to cause severe illness. “Last year, some of the patients that I saw were maybe sicker than some of

the patients I’m seeing this year, but I feel like I’m seeing many more that have the flu this year,” Wheat said. “And still, some of them are quite sick.” She also said that people with chronic illnesses or health conditions are more likely to get a worse case of the flu than someone healthy.

What symptoms should you watch for?

Compared with last winter, Wheat isn’t seeing a difference in flu symptoms. She said the classic hallmarks of the flu remain the same. • Fever • Fatigue and low energy • Nasuea • Vomitting • Diarrhea • Runny nose • Sore throat

See FLU SEASON, page 8

DeKalb protesters rally against Trump’s plans in Venezuela, 5 years after Jan. 6 insurrection By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com “No war for oil.” “Resist the regime.” “Freedom over fascism.” “Stop Trump. Save democracy.” Demonstrators united at Memorial Park in downtown DeKalb on Jan. 6, holding signs with those messages in a peaceful protest. Organizers said they hoped to bring community attention to Saturday’s stunning middle-of-the-night U.S. military operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The foreign leader faces federal drug charges after the military campaign that was ordered by President Donald Trump without congressional approval.

to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, pleading not guilty to charges that allege that he had committed multiple federal crimes related to narco-terrorism and cocaine trafficking, multiple reports show. If convicted, Maduro could face a life sentence in jail. Protester Marcy Kalvelage said the president and his administration should have acted differently. “I think we should have kept our nose out of it,” Kalvelage said. The hour-long demonstration saw protesters confronted by both support and opposition from passersby. Hinckley resident Bobbi McFarland said she felt compelled to come out in protest to send a message. “I think it’s very important that we Mark Busch stand up for what we believe in,” McFarProtesters gather Jan. 6 for a Venezuela Rapid Response Rally at Memorial Park on the corner of land said. “I’m not pleased with the direction ... the country is going in. And First Street and Lincoln Highway in DeKalb to voice their opposition to President Donald Trump I think that the war and his invasion of and the administrations recent actions in Venezuela. Venezuela [are] in part a distraction The actions spurred significant pub- president’s legal standing behind the from the Epstein files. And it’s not fair to lic pushback, with many experts and seizure. See PROTESTS, page 10 lawmakers calling into question the Maduro has since been transported

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

‘We should have kept our nose out of it’

• FLU SEASON

Continued from page 6 What if I get the flu?

What should you do if you suspect you have the flu? Wheat said it depends on what your general health status is. “If you are the very young or the very old, then I recommend that you reach out to your physician right away because we do have some treatments that could help,” Wheat said. “We do have antivirals that can shorten the length of the illness and also help prevent the spread to other people.” Honey, for anyone over 1, can help soothe a sore throat and cough, and nasal saline sprays can be used to treat runny noses and congestion, Wheat said. She also recommended ibuprofen and acetaminophen to help with fevers and muscle aches. Aside from at-home medications and seeing a physician when needed, Wheat said staying home and resting can help someone recover from the flu.

Anything parents should know?

That messaging is similar to what Condon said the DeKalb school district recommends. She said DeKalb schools advise people to stay home if they’re not feeling well. “Especially if they have a fever,” Condon said. “They want to stay home 24 hours fever-free without taking Tylenol or ibuprofen. ... If they come off being sick, they can always wear a mask if they choose to do so.” While flu activity is considered very high across Illinois, the IDPH is also reporting that less than a quarter of all Illinoisans have received a flu vaccine for the current respiratory illness season. The goal is to have 70% of the state’s population vaccinated for the flu, according to an Influenza Vaccination Coverage Dashboard created by the IDPH.

Vaccination rates by county

Here are the flu vaccination rate for northern Illinois counties, according to the IDPH. • Boone County: 20.1% • Carroll County: 13.7% • DeKalb County: 21.9% • DuPage: 29.4% • Grundy: 17.9% • Jo Davies County: 17.3% • Kane County: 24.7% • Kankakee County: 17.2% • Kendall County: 23.6% • Lake County: 29.1% • Lee County: 17.4% • McHenry County: 24.8% • Ogle County: 19.8%

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Stephenson County: 19.2% Will County: 22.2% Winnebago County: 20.8% Whiteside County: 14.3% State data shows that the December statewide flu vaccination rate (24.4%) was the lowest it has been for the month of December since at least 2019. “Vaccination rates are not what they have sometimes been in the past, and that can be contributing to the spread,” Wheat said. “The flu vaccine doesn’t necessarily prevent you always from getting the disease, but it does help you get not as serious of a disease.” Wheat said that the current dominant flu strain is also more contagious than previous strains, regardless of vaccination rates.

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Not too late to get vaccinated

Despite being nearly halfway through the typical flu season, Wheat said someone who hasn’t received an up-to-date flu shot should still consider getting one. She recommends a yearly flu shot to her patients from the fall until March. “I still think it’s a great time to get a flu shot,” Wheat said. “We have yet to see Influenza B come through with the high numbers, and our vaccines usually try to cover both of them. And we still have a long time left in flu season.” On Monday, federal health officials reduced the number of vaccines recommended for American children, The flu, along with hepatitis A, hepatitis B, some types of meningitis, RSV and rotavirus, is no longer among the list of diseases the U.S. CDC recommends all children get vaccinated against. Despite those new policies, that won’t mean Illinois parents will be hamstrung from getting their children a flu vaccine. In a provided statement, Runge said state health officials have not changed their recommendations. “IDPH remains aligned with the current recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians,” Runge said in a provided statement. Wheat said she will continue to recommend the flu shot for all members of the families she sees as a physician. “That has not changed for us,” Wheat said. “As a family physician, I talk to my patients not only about them, but their entire household. And so I’ll often talk to them about who else is in their household, who else are they visiting, and thinking about their risk to all of those people. And so often getting a vaccine is the right choice for many of them.”

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1926 – 100 YEARS AGO

Receiving a call from a farm home on the South Fourth street road, the fire department Ford chemical truck was called out yesterday morning to assist in extinguishing a blaze that did damage to the Edward Conlin feed truck. The truck, in some unaccountable manner, caught on fire about two miles south of DeKalb on the South Fourth street road. The engine, electric wires and footboards on the truck were damaged by the fire, which centered around the engine. The body of the truck was not damaged and the loss is expected to be of a minor nature. At a meeting of the Odd Fellows lodge held some time ago it was decided that alterations should be made on the third floor of the building, involving the expenditure of considerable money. The partition in the lodge room on the west side was ordered removed, the entire third floor redecorated and such other repairs were deemed necessary. Acting upon the suggestion of the deputy state fire marshal, it also is planned to make a change in the fire escape on the north side of the building. Bearing the license number of 1,688,667, a ford coupe has been standing on State Street in Sycamore since Tuesday forenoon, and it is remarkable that the machine has not been stolen before this time. It is reported that someone attempted to start the machine Tuesday night but it refused to move, and while it is not known whether it was the owner trying to start it, the machine is in the street yet today. In some cities the Ford would have been towed to a garage and the owner would have been compelled to pay storage fees. Phares Johnson, of the Seeaneye Inn now is making arrangements for the installation of a new soda fountain at his place of business, which will add much when the fountain is put in. The new equipment which is being made by the Liquid Carbonite company is expected to be received here within a few days and will be installed about the first of the coming month. It is said the new fountain will require no ice to keep the liquids and ice cream cooler at the proper temperature at all times.

9 reportedly contained about 1,200 signatures. A total of 534 signatures would be required to call a referendum. Meilinger said more than half of the pages contain valid signatures, but the persons who submitted the petition still may be about 100 signatures short. A lease with MST Aviation of Belvidere to operate DeKalb Municipal Airport was approved by the city council Monday night. The action was preceded by lengthy debate on terms, including the amount of insurance coverage required by the city. The lease requires MST to carry $1 million insurance.

2001 – 25 YEARS AGO

No matter their size, departments from Cortland to Waterman aim to serve their communities with the help of full and partPhoto provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives time officers, as well as with the support Looking west at Family Shoe Store, 109 North 7th Street, just north of Lincoln Highway in of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Police. DeKalb, 1976. “You’re the insurance policy,” Hinckley Police Chief David Walker said of the role DeKalb was awarded the contract for the Working on a suggestion made last construction of the elevated tank founda- the police play in the community. Walker, evening by Superintendent of Schools F. R. tion, consisting of 305 cubic yards of con- who describes Hinckley as a “very quiet” Ritzman, that this city needs a kindergarcrete, appurtenant piping, accessory con- area, feels small departments do the same ten, many residents of DeKalb have taken crete structures, grading, seeding and the job as the bigger ones, but on a smaller a great interest in the movement. Mr. Ritz- construction of a woven wire fence around scale. man, during his address at the high school the elevated tank site. The Illinois Department of TransportaParent-Teachers Association meeting last tion will conduct a traffic count within a evening mentioned the fact that he is Figures released by the office of the month to determine whether to reduce the interested in organizing a kindergarten in dean of men at Northern Illinois State Sycamore Road speed limit. The traffic connection with one of the training Teachers College indicate that 74 men count, which measures number of cars schools. have been dropped from the college to enter the armed forces since the opening and speeds traveled on a road, was the 1951 – 75 YEARS AGO of the fall term in September. Of this num- consequence of a speed reduction request by the city of Sycamore. Saving waste paper is a practice that is ber, ten men left Northern during the fall of major importance again. During normal term, and an estimated 25 to 30 did not Geysers at Hopkins Park? Hardly, the times little attention is paid to saving return after the fall quarter. part district pool keeps the pool full during waste paper and the average person does not realize that if all waste paper were A $5,000 pipe organ has been installed the winter and keeps the water moving to destroyed, we would be forced to do within St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Sycamore, prevent ice from forming and cracking the out many conveniences. Waste paper and will be used for the first time this Sun- pool walls. becomes even more important during day. The new 300-pipe instrument A report on the $35 plus $1 per mile city troubled times. At present waste paper replaces an organ in use in St. Peter’s must do its part and by saving it, all will be during the past 40 years, which was origi- ambulance fee charged to DeKalb resihelping the defense effort. Present prices nally installed as a memorial to Mrs. C. O. dents for transport to Kishwaukee Community Hospital (KCH) is scheduled for for waste paper are the highest since the Boynton. Monday night’s city council meeting. period following World War I. Because KCH is located outside city limits, 1976 – 50 YEARS AGO residents are now paying more for an Work has been started on the foundaCircuit Judge Rex Meilinger said this tion for the 750,000-gallon elevated water morning a petition calling for a referendum ambulance ride to the new hospital than they were paying for a ride to DeKalb Pubtank which is to be a part of the new on city manager government in DeKalb lic Hospital. waterworks improvement project for the may be short of the required number of – Compiled by Sue Breese City of DeKalb. Guldbeck and Eckstrom of signatures. The 93 pages of the petition

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

LOOKING BACK

Just Jane: A Visit with Jane Austen

Mark Busch

More protesters gather Jan. 6 for a Venezuela Rapid Response Rally at Memorial Park on the corner of First Street and Lincoln Highway in DeKalb.

• PROTESTS

Continued from page 7 those young women who were abused.” The files released in the wake of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein’s death have come under scrutiny by some in Congress for months, with skeptics questioning the extent to which records have been made public, multiple reports show. Cynthia de Seife, who heads up the local Indivisible group dubbed Responsive Engagement Activating Civic Talent, said she takes issue with the actions in Venezuela taken by the president and his administration. “This is not how our country operates,” de Siefe said. “We have to protect our laws. We have to hold our elected officials accountable to the law, or there is no law. And if there’s no law, then there are no rights.” DeKalb resident Frankie DiCiaccio said he felt the demonstration was necessary for people to send a message to America’s leadership. “I think it’s important to keep showing up and saying things aren’t normal when they’re not normal,” DiCiaccio said. “I think it’s important to call things what they really are and to be a reminder to folks who maybe aren’t paying very close attention that things are straying and changing rapidly.” Kalvelage said Trump and his administration should be more focused on improving the quality of life for Americans here at home. In the new year, for example, health care costs have sky-

rocketed for many Americans who get coverage through the Affordable Care Act after pandemic-era subsidies that mitigated costs expired in December. Congress so far has to approve extensions to those subsidies amid the ongoing partisan impasse. “He’s got to take care of things in the U.S.,” Kalvelage said. “There’s too many things that [people] need.” The same day also marked five years since the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection after pro-Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Jan. 6 is historically the date following every presidential election that marks the point at which federal elected officials are expected to certify the results. DiCiaccio said the state of the country feels off again. “In some ways, we’re in such different places,” DiCiaccio said. “When I first heard about Jan. 6, 2021, I was at Barb Food Mart organizing menstrual hygiene products in a mask, sequestered in a room away from other volunteers navigating the pandemic and all of its uncertainty. I would like to say that it feels like we’re in a better place. Definitely feels different than that time, but it doesn’t feel better. Feels even more precarious.” De Seife said she was pleased with the turnout for Tuesday’s protest. “The remedy for the pain of watching what’s happening to my country is to work hard, to get out and do things, and make a difference,” De Seife said. “When I see dozens of people show up, it gives me hope.”

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DeKalb library to host roller derby event Jan. 17 ing process. Attendees also will be able to attend a Barbed Wire Roller Derby Residents can learn about the game at 6 p.m. at the Kishwaukee Barbed Wire Roller Derby team Family YMCA, 2500 Bethany Road, during an event at the DeKalb Public Sycamore. Game tickets will be 50 Library. percent off for event attendees. The The free event begins at 2 p.m. game is free for children ages eight Jan. 17 in the library’s lower-level a n d u n d e r . N o r e g i s t r a t i o n i s Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. required. Participants can learn about the For information, email leahh@ derby team and its history and train- dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2112.

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Dolly Parton Imagination Library event set for Jan. 17 in DeKalb

Families with children can celebrate Dolly Parton’s 80th birthday with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library as part of the DeKalb Public Library’s America 250 initiative. The free event will begin at 10 a.m. Jan. 17 in the library’s Story and Activity Room, 309 Oak St. The event features crafts, storytelling, cookies and dancing. Attendees also will be able to take pictures with a life-sized Dolly Parton cardboard cutout. No registration is required. Parent can register children ages newborn to four to receive free monthly books through the imagination library. To register, visit dkpl.org. For information, email theresaw@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3350.

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DeKalb library to host digital literacy programs Jan. 15 and 29

The DeKalb Public Library will host two programs as part of its eight part bi-weekly digital literacy program to help residents ages 55 and older improve digital literacy skills. The free programs will be held at 10 a.m. Jan. 15 and 29 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman and Yusunas meeting rooms, 309 Oak St. The first session will discuss online safety. The second session features everyday online tools. Participants can bring smartphone and laptops. Library computers access also will be available. The sessions are first-come, first-served. No registration is required. For information, email patrickc@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2115. – Shaw Local News Network

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026 MIDWEEK

BUILDING STRONG, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS AND OWNERS

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Aging and change go hand in hand. Physical changes associated with aging, such as graying hair or reduced muscle mass, may garner the most attention. But personal relationships also can change as people age. As a person ages, interests could change and home base may not be what it once was. People move after retirement, and friends you might once have seen with frequency may no longer be as close by. Children are older, and the friends you made from these early parenthood relationships may change as well. It is important to have a solid group of friends. Psychology Today reports that a strong social network reduces the risk of early death by around 45 percent. Recent data even indicates that loneliness is as great a health risk as smoking half a pack of cigarettes per day. Starting fresh and making friends at 50 or older might seem challenging. Although making new friends after 50 may take more effort than it did when you were younger, it is certainly not impossible. Here are some tips for making friends after 50. ¥ Join a networking group. Networking isn t just for advancing your career. Networking groups that focus on friendships can help individuals meet one another. Perhaps there is a neighborhood group in which people from a particular housing development or several streets in town get together? Shared interests can include the place where you live. ¥ Organize a get-together. Sometimes making friends involves effort on your part. You might need to step out of your comfort zone and initiate first contact with others. Maybe there is a person at a store you run into frequently, or someone whose path you cross regularly that can be asked out to a get-together? ¥ Get involved with activities. A church group or a volunteer activity can be a great place to meet new people. In fact, volunteers often get involved for the express purpose of getting to know others and to be integral members of the community. ¥ Consider other generations. Friends need not be the same age and from the same generation. Keep an open mind that friends can come in all ages and from all walks of life.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

BUILDING STRONG, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS AND OWNERS

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026 MIDWEEK

Redevelopment of former St. Mary’s Hospital could be a go By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Construction at the site of the former St. Mary’s Hospital in DeKalb could be a go after repeated delays. Owner Jon Sauser approached the DeKalb Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 5, asking for approval of a plan to build apartments at 145 Fisk Ave., a long-vacant building more than 100 years old. “It’s been a little while, but essentially if you think back, not really much has changed,” Sauser said. “We’re redeveloping an existing old building.” In 2022, the City Council first greenlit the petitioner’s plans, which, after years, did not materialize. Around that time, Sauser petitioned city officials to build 32 apartment units in the building. The property along Fisk Avenue has long been vacant and is formerly home to St. Mary’s Hospital, a girl’s dormitory and administrative offices for DeKalb schools, city documents show. More recently, in December 2025, the City Council took steps to re-establish a process for allowing the project to become a reality. In turn, the City Council rejected a measure that would have repealed Sauser’s redevelopment plans. The city has been waiting for years to review a final development plan for the site before allowing any construction to proceed. City staff in November said they were anticipating a resolution to the matter. The owner has since submitted required documents, including a final construction plan, final landscape plan and lighting plan to the city for review, city documents show. City documents show the units will have access to a tenant lounge, exercise room and an outdoor patio. The parking lot would have carports. Chairman Max Maxwell expressed support for the petitioner’s plans for the site. “I’m excited to see the project back again,” Maxwell said. Commissioner Trixy O’Flaherty wanted to know what had changed about the petitioner’s plans since the panel last reviewed them. The plans, as originally submitted, indicated that the site would feature a rooftop patio in place of the existing garage, among other things. “It sounds like that’s going away,

Photos by Megann Horstead

Local developer Jon Sauser briefs members of the Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 5 during their regular meeting about his plans to redevelop the former St. Mary’s Hospital building at 145 Fisk Avenue. but you’re going to have a ground-level pergola where there was a garage,” O’Flaherty said. In response, Sauser confirmed that the garage will be demolished and said the site plans are a little bit more defined this time around. “The garage was always going to be demolished,” Sauser said. “I think it was either open or really undefined. We just kind of defined it a little bit, made a little space. ... Hardly anything has changed. [It’s] really more finetuning.” City staff also pointed to the final landscape plan and how it comes with additional landscaping. The panel voted 4-0 to support the building’s redevelopment. Vice Chairman Bill McMahon was absent. The City Council is expected to weigh in on the petitioner’s plans during its Jan. 12 meeting. After the meeting, Sauser said the plan, if approved by the Council, is to begin construction in the spring. The project has an anticipated 2027 completion date. Also at the meeting, the commission postponed until Jan. 20 a public hearing on plans to consider allowing a Pilot travel center on roughly 114 acres

Commissioner Trixy O’Flaherty raises a question on Jan. 5 at a public meeting of the DeKalb Planning and Zoning Commission. of property at the southeast corner of Peace Road and Fairview Drive. The panel was briefed on the status of plans presented to the city by the petitioner, Jerry Krusinski of JJK 343, LLC, the same entity behind the massive new data center that was approved by the council in December 2025. Once built, the site will become home to the city’s second data center, just south of

the DeKalb Meta data center, which first came online in late 2023. The user behind the city’s second data center has yet to be identified. Krusinski cited the holidays as part of the reason for requesting that the public hearing be rescheduled to a later date. The commission backed the petitioner’s request in a 4-0 vote.

DeKalb distillery takes top prize for second consecutive year

ate the distillery and treat the rest of the crop as a commodity,” said Nagele said in an interview with AgriNews at the recent ICGA meeting. “One important thing to add is that we, as distillers, look at ourselves as farmers first, and the visitor center that we’ve built and the investments we’ve made in the operation are really about becoming sort of a front line of conversation about modern-day agriculture. “We have about 30,000 guests a year come through the visitor center. Most of them have never stepped foot on a farm, and we think it’s important to be able to use the facility and the products as a way to have an open conversation about what we do, why we do it and really tell the story about modern production agriculture.” There has been a boom in agritourism over the past two decades, giving farmers an opportunity to diversify and add value to their operation. “The value of a bushel of corn is much higher in a bottle of bourbon than it is in the back of a semi truck,” Nagele said.

By TOM C. DORAN tdoran@shawmedia.com Whiskey Acres Distilling Co., where the corn is grown, harvested and distilled on-site, once again earned top honors at the Heartland Whiskey Competition as Best-in-State for Illinois. The estate distillery located on a family farm in DeKalb was recently recognized at the Illinois Corn Growers Association annual meeting for earning top honors for the second consecutive time in the biennial competition. “We are proud to see Whiskey Acres earn this honor again,” said Rodney Weinzierl, IL Corn executive director. “Their accomplishment underscores the value of corn in adding real value on-farm, supporting local agriculture and showing how quality grain makes an exceptional product.” Whiskey Acres was founded on the fifth-generation Walter family farm. “The distillery is going on 11 years of value-added production. We exclusively use the grains that we grow on the farm to make bourbon, rye whiskey and other artisan expressions of distilled spirits,” said Nick Nagele, co-founder, distiller and farmer at Whiskey Acres. Nagele also helps his father on his family’s farm near Sheldon in eastern Illinois. Nagele’s business partners, Jim and Jamie Walter, own and operate the DeKalb farm. The Walters were looking for ways to innovate and diversify their farming operations, and Jamie suggested creating a distillery using grain from their production to create quality spirits.

Corn Groups’ Support

IL Corn, along with corn grower organizations from 12 other states, sponsors the biennial Heartland spirits competition. Distillers from all U.S. states and territories are eligible to compete. “The foundation of being able to enter is that you have to make your spirits from corn. They have hundreds of distilleries throughout the country Photo provided by IL Corn enter their spirits,” Nagele said. “Industry professionals blindly Nick Nagele, co-founder, distiller and farmer at Whiskey Acres Distilling Company, and his son, taste them, give ratings and then, Gunnar, show the Best-in-State for Illinois award the DeKalb business earned in the Heartland Whiskey Competition. Whiskey Acres was recognized for its accomplishment during the Illinois based off your aggregate ratings, individual products are given awards. Corn Growers Association’s annual meeting. Then, in aggregate, your products are “The Walter farm is a little less than barley as crops specifically to feed the awarded, as well. Then, you get to walk 2,000 acres, primarily corn and soy- distillery. Depending on the year, we away with the best distiller and the beans, and we have added wheat and use about 10% of what we grow to oper- state award like we did.”

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Beginner’s genealogy class set for Jan. 14 in DeKalb

Willard “Bill” Clawson Jr., 90, of Sycamore, passed on 1/6/2026. Arrangements entrusted to Olson Quiram Funeral Chapel, Sycamore. Additional information: olsonfh.com.

Participants can learn how to find and use military records. Attendees will be able to bring a Adults who want to learn about laptop. beginning genealogy research can learn No registration is required. how to at a DeKalb Public Library class. For information, email brittak@dkpl. The free class will begin at 2 p.m. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2100. Jan. 14 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.

DeKalb church to host hymn sing Jan. 14

City.Light Church, 2325 N. First St., DeKalb, will host a free hymn sing at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 14. For information, call 815-758-4919. – Shaw Local News Network

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Whiskey Acres Distillery wins Best-in-State award 15

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026 MIDWEEK

Cortland man announces candidacy for contested DeKalb County Board primary race Food drive to launch campaign Thursday; candidate says come with questions By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com A Cortland man running in a contested primary race for the DeKalb County Board formally announced his campaign on Jan. 4. Devon Wilcox is running as a Democrat to represent District 5 on the DeKalb County Board, according to documents filed with the DeKalb County Clerk and Recorder’s Office on Oct. 28. “My goal is to be a representative for all our neighbors and to ensure we all share in the growth our county is seeing,” Wilcox said in a news release. The board seat Wilcox is seeking represents voters in DeKalb, Cortland and in parts of Sycamore and Maple Park. That seat currently is held by Suzanne Fahnestock, a Republican from Maple Park, who was appointed to the DeKalb County Board in August. Fahnestock’s appointment came after Savannah Ilenikhena, also a Republican, resigned from the position weeks before being indicted on multiple charges, accused of defrauding the federal COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program. At the time, Ilenikhena said she was resigning for personal reasons and to spend more time with family.

Ilenikhena pleaded not guilty to the charges in October and has a hearing scheduled for 2 p.m. Feb. 18 in front of DeKalb County Circuit Court Judge Joseph Pedersen. Her husband, Bartholomew Ilenikhena, a former DeKalb County Sheriff’s corrections deputy, also was charged. Although Fahnestock currently is in the District 5 seat, Wilcox won’t have to beat Fahnestock at the polls. She is vying for the full-term District 5 spot, whereas Wilcox is running to fill the remaining two years in Ilenikhena’s unexpired term. Benjamin Haier, a Democrat who’s represented District 5 since December 2022, did not file for reelection, according to county records. That’s the seat Fahnestock and Selma Saenz, a Democrat from Cortland, will compete for in the November midterm election. No Republicans have filed to run for the unexpired term, but two Democrats have: Wilcox and Daniel Vantilburg. Vantilburg, of DeKalb, filed his election paperwork a day before Wilcox, according to county clerk records. Vantilburg and Wilcox will compete against each other in the 2026 primary on March 17. In his announcement, Wilcox said his campaign would hold a food drive from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Cortland Lions Club, 70 S. Llanos St. The nonperishable goods and hygiene products the campaign collects will be given to the Barb Food Mart – a schoolbased pantry service for the families of DeKalb District 428 schools. Wilcox encouraged potential voters to meet with him and share their thoughts on DeKalb County govern-

Photo provided by Devon Wilcox

Devon Wilcox, a Cortland Democrat, is running for a two-year unexpired term representing District 5 on the DeKalb County Board. ment policy. to be a place of growth and prosperity “I have built my life here, and I for everyone who calls it home,” Wilwant to help this community continue cox said.

AARP to offer DeKalb County seniors tax aide five locations in DeKalb, La Salle, Genoa and Sycamore. The tax return preparation program will be provided by AARP TaxAARP’s Tax–Aide will offer a free Aide volunteers. Special focus is tax return preparation program for being given to taxpayers ages 50 and 2026 for area residents ages 50 and o l d e r o r r e s i d e n t s w h o h a v e older. low-to-moderate income. The program will be available at Taxpayers do not need to be AARP

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

members. The tax preparation sites include: • Elder Care Services, 1701 E. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb. For appointments, call 815-758-6550. • La Salle Public Library, 305 Marquette St. For appointments, call 815223-2341. • Sycamore United Methodist

Church, 160 Johnson Ave. For appointments, call 815-501-5696. • Resource Bank, 310 Illinois Route 23, Genoa. For appointments, call 815751-5826. • DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St. For appointments, call 815-7515763. For information, call 815-751-5763.

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

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MidWeek Classified

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IN THE CIRCUIT CO FOR THE 23RD JUDI CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNTY SYCAMORE, ILLINO U.S. Bank National A ation PLAINTIFF Vs. Jonathan T. Insley a Jonathan Insley; et DEFENDANTS No. 2025FC0000 NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S OF REAL ESTATE PUBLIC NOTICE IS H GIVEN that pursuant Judgment of Foreclosu Sale entered in the cause on 05/12/202 Sheriff of DeKalb Coun nois will on Februar 2026 at the hour o PM at Public Safety ing, 150 North Sycamore, IL 60178, place otherwise desi at the time of sale, Co DeKalb and State of I sell at public auction highest bidder for ca set forth below, the fol described real estate: THE FOLLOWING SCRIBED REAL ESTATE ATED IN THE COUN DEKALB, IN THE STA ILLINOIS, TO WIT: LOT IN GREEN RIDGE, PH A SUBDIVISION OF PA THE NORTH 1/2 OF TION 15, TOWNSHI NORTH, RANGE 4, EA THE THIRD PRIN MERIDIAN, ACCORDIN THE PLAT TH RECORDED JUNE 1, AS DOCUMENT NU 2006009649, IN D COUNTY, ILLINOIS. PIN 14-15-181-014 Improved with Residen COMMONLY KNOWN A 501 East Garfield Stree Waterman, IL 60556 Sale terms: 10% do the highest bid by c funds at the close of th tion; The balance, inc the Judicial sale fe Abandoned Resi Property Municipality Fund, which is calcula the rate of $1 for $1,000 or fraction the the amount paid by th chaser not to exceed in certified funds, i within twenty-four hours. The subject prop subject to general real taxes, special assess or special taxes against said real esta is offered for sale w any representation quality or quantity and without recour Plaintiff and in "AS IS dition. The sale is subject to confirmati the court. If the property is a c minium and the forec takes place after 1/1/ purchasers other tha mortgagees will be re to pay any assessme legal fees due unde Condominium Proper 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1 (g)(4). If the property is locate common interest com ty, purchasers other ettling mortgagees will be in re asany it may se to pay assessme legal way fees of duekno und Condominium Proper Luckily, th 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g narrow the If the sale is set aside f reason, the Purchaser sale shall be entitled o a return of the deposi The Purchaser shall h further recourse again Mortgagor, the Mortga the Mortgagee's attorn

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNTY DEKALB COUNTY SYCAMORE, ILLINOIS SYCAMORE, ILLINOIS U.S. Bank National AssociU.S. Bank National Association ation PLAINTIFF PLAINTIFF Vs. Vs. Jonathan T. Insley a/k/a Jonathan T. Insley a/k/a Jonathan Insley; et. al. Jonathan Insley; et. al. DEFENDANTS DEFENDANTS No. 2025FC000022 No. 2025FC000022 NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE OF REAL ESTATE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above Sale entered in the above cause on 05/12/2025, the cause on 05/12/2025, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, IlliSheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on February 26, nois will on February 26, 2026 at the hour of 1:00 2026 at the hour of 1:00 PM at Public Safety BuildPM at Public Safety Build150 North Main ing, 150 North Main ing, Sycamore, IL 60178, or in a Sycamore, IL 60178, or in a place otherwise designated place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of at the time of sale, County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following set forth below, the following described real estate: described real estate: PIN 14-15-181-014 THE FOLLOWING DEImproved with Residential SCRIBED REAL ESTATE SITUCOMMONLY KNOWN AS: ATED IN THE COUNTY OF 501 East Garfield Street DEKALB, IN THE STATE OF Waterman, IL 60556 ILLINOIS, TO WIT: LOT 110, Sale terms: 10% down of IN GREEN RIDGE, PHASE II, the highest bid by certified A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF funds at the close of the aucTHE NORTH 1/2 OF SECtion; The balance, including TION 15, TOWNSHIP 38 the Judicial sale fee for NORTH, RANGE 4, EAST OF Residential Abandoned THIRD PRINCIPAL THE Property Municipality Relief MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO which is calculated at Fund, PLAT THEREOF THE the rate of $1 for each RECORDED JUNE 1, 2006 $1,000 or fraction thereof of AS DOCUMENT NUMBER the amount paid by the pur2006009649, IN DEKALB chaser not to exceed $300, COUNTY, ILLINOIS. in certified funds, is due PIN 14-15-181-014 within twenty-four (24) Improved with Residential hours. The subject property is COMMONLY KNOWN AS: subject to general real estate 501 East Garfield Street taxes, special assessments, Waterman, IL 60556 or special taxes levied Sale terms: 10% down of against said real estate and the highest bid by certified is offered for sale without funds at the close of the aucany representation as to tion; The balance, including quality or quantity of title the Judicial sale fee for and without recourse to Residential Abandoned Plaintiff and in "AS IS" conProperty Municipality Relief dition. The sale is further Fund, which is calculated at subject to confirmation by the rate of $1 for each the court. $1,000 or fraction thereof of If the property is a condothe amount paid by the purminium and the foreclosure chaser not to exceed $300, takes place after 1/1/2007, in certified funds, is due purchasers other than the twenty-four (24) within mortgagees will be required hours. The subject property is to pay any assessment and subject to general real estate legal fees due under The taxes, special assessments, Condominium Property Act, or special taxes levied 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and against said real estate and (g)(4). is offered for sale without DON'T NEED IT? If the property is located in a any representation as to SELL IT FAST! common interest communiquality or quantity of title MidWeek Classified ty, purchasers other than and without recourse to Call 833-584-NEWS mortgagees will be required Plaintiff and in "AS IS" conto pay any assessment and dition. The sale is further legal fees due under the subject to confirmation by Condominium Property Act, the court. 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). If the property is a condoIf the sale is set aside for any minium and the foreclosure reason, the Purchaser at the takes place after 1/1/2007, sale shall be entitled only to purchasers other than the a return of the deposit paid. mortgagees will be required The Purchaser shall have no to pay any assessment and further recourse against the legal fees due under The Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or Condominium Property Act, the Mortgagee's attorney. 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and Upon payment in full of the (g)(4). amount bid, the purchaser If the property is located in a shall receive a Certificate of common interest communiSale, which will entitle the ty, purchasers other than ettling into a job you like is not as easy purchaser to a Deed to the mortgagees will be required asany it may seem. real estate after Confirmation to pay assessment and Sometimes, there is no legal way fees of dueknowing, under the you just have to risk of it.the sale. The successful Condominium Property Act, Luckily, the classifieds can help you purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evict765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). narrow the options down. ing any tenants or other indiIf the sale is set aside for any viduals presently in possesreason, the Purchaser at the sion of the subject premises. sale shall be entitled only to The property will NOT be a return of the deposit paid. open for inspection and The Purchaser shall have no Plaintiff makes no represenfurther recourse against the tation as to the condition of Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the property. Prospective bidthe Mortgagee's attorney.

the court. If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises. The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-2501183. I3279902 (Published in The MidWeek, Jan. 14, 21, 28, 2026)

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Anyone can do it! Publisher's Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise "any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination." Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD 1-800-669-9777 Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275

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19 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

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hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises. The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-2501183. I3279902 (Published in The MidWeek, Jan. 14, 21, 28, 2026)

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, January 14, 2026 MIDWEEK