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Mayor, City Council throw support by latest south side development Travel center, truck stop near I-88 greenlit in DeKalb
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
A new business park anchored by a Pilot Travel Center gas station and convenience store is headed for DeKalb’s south side after the City Council greenlit the project.
Unanimous council action on the DeKalb Commerce Center will allow development to begin on 114 acres at the southeast corner of Peace Road and Fairview Drive.
Officials said the project has been a long time in the making for the city.
Mayor Cohen Barnes expressed excitement about the project. He said the idea is to bring in more tax money, fuel and sales taxes for example, beyond property taxes.
“We’ve been wanting a truck stop,” Barnes said. “... We really do focus on the diversification of our tax base. It used to be all residential. Now we’ve got data centers. Now we’ve got distribution centers. Now, we’ve got a truck stop. We continue to figure out ways to make sure we’re not relying on one industry and more importantly, not relying on residential homeowners in how we fund all of our government bodies.”
Pilot Travel Center will take up 10 acres at the southeast corner of Peace Road and Fairview Drive.
Plans for other users in the business park aren’t yet known to the public and
PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzlesonpage14
will require further city approval in the future.
The recent vote came after a positive recommendation by the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission.
Briefing the City Council on plans for the site was Jerry Krusinski of JJK 343 LLC, the same entity behind the 560-acre new data center approved in December.
“We feel that this parcel, as you noted at the southeast corner of Peace and Fairview, sits perfectly for us to bring amenities to the city of DeKalb,” Krusinski said. “And what we are envisioning here is a mix of a lot of different businesses and uses.”
Project leaders also are soliciting proposals for other potential businesses at the site, documents show.
Nicklas said the need for the development is clear.
“I have to say that at the staff level, we have been wondering when we would see a truck center,” Nicklas said. “This is much needed.”
Nearby Rochelle and Hampshire also have Pilot travel centers.
Second Ward Alderwoman Barb Larson described the project as a “win-win” for the city and its residents.
ON THE COVER
RTW Veteran Center co-founder
Daniel “Doc” Habeel delivers remarks to a crowd Jan. 28, during a soft opening for the RTW Veteran Center in DeKalb.
See story, page 6.
CORRECTIONS
Accuracy is important to The MidWeek. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411 or email at readit@midweeknews.com.
Photo by Megann Horstead
Mark Busch
Jerry Krusinski of JJK 343 LLC is behind the now-approved travel center and truck stop expected to be built near the interstate on DeKalb’s south side.
‘We don’t work with ICE:’ DeKalb County Sheriff’s full public remarks
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
DeKalb County Sheriff Andy Sullivan addressed a large crowd gathered at a DeKalb County Board committee meeting on Jan. 26 in Sycamore as residents voiced concerns about federal immigration policy.
At least a dozen residents spoke at a Law and Justice Committee meeting –an advisory group made up of DeKalb County Board members that meets monthly to discuss public safety.
Some asked local law enforcement, including Sullivan, a Republican, to issue public statements or directly address President Donald Trump’s massive ongoing immigration crackdown led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents through the Department of Homeland Security. Like he’s done before, Sullivan pointed to the TRUST Act.
“We don’t work with ICE,” Sullivan said. “We never have – well years in the past, since 2017, we do not. Unless there was a federal criminal warrant, then we would be allowed to work with ICE. But
I don’t give them access to our jail. They don’t have access to who’s in our custody. That doesn’t change because I am
prohibited by law from doing that, and I have to follow state law.”
ICE action has come under intensi-
fied scrutiny in the past few weeks, after federal agents fatally shot two Minnesota residents in separate shootings during demonstrations in Minneapolis organized to oppose the president’s immigration policies.
The DHS’s accounts of how the two residents, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were killed have been contradicted by Minnesota state officials and video clips shared widely.
Over a half-hour period, Sullivan informally responded to questions from about a dozen members of the public. Some voiced concerns related to the potential for violent conflict with ICE agents. Others asked him to clarify publicly his office’s role when it comes to federal law enforcement.
He addressed a question about House Bill 1312, passed in the Illinois Legislature in December.
“That is a civil remedy for citizens, the way I understand it, to be able to file lawsuits against the federal government if they believe their rights have been violated,” he said. “It’s not a criminal matter, it is again a civil matter
See SHERIFF, page 4
Mark Busch file photo
DeKalb County Sheriff Andy Sullivan addressed dozens of area residents who had gathered at a DeKalb County Board committee meeting Jan. 26 in Sycamore to voice concerns about federal immigration policy.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
U.S. 250th anniversary, next lecture in DeKalb history series
The February Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore Series will feature a program on the United States upcoming 250th anniversary.
The free program will be held at noon Feb. 5 at the Ellwood House Museum, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb.
City of DeKalb city manager and historian Bill Nicklas will explore what inspired the country’s founders. He also will discuss how the founders principles
• SHERIFF
Continued from page 3
where lawsuits can be filed on that behalf.”
While the interaction was not part of the meeting’s agenda, Sullivan said he wanted to offer responses to multiple points raised.
He spoke off the cuff for more than five minutes.
Cortland resident Devon Wilcox, a vocal participant, asked Sullivan to issue a statement to local media.
When Sullivan finished speaking, Wilcox said, “Let’s give credit where credit is due,” prompting applause from the crowd.
Read Sullivan’s responses to questions from the public:
“The sheriff’s office does abide by the TRUST Act,” Sullivan said. “We have since 2017, we have not deviated from that. We follow state law, that hasn’t changed, it won’t change. So we do abide by that, we will continue to do so.
As for people being able to call 911, of course, we want people to call 911 when they’re in distress. That’s our job to respond to those calls, we always have and we always will. Nothing has changed within the sheriff’s office or any other law enforcement agency within DeKalb County that I’m aware of. We respond to 911 calls, that’s our job. And for you [a resident] to have that fear, that bothers me because you shouldn’t have that fear. We’re here to help you.
I’ve grown up in DeKalb my entire life, too. I’ve spent the last 29 years of my life serving in this community that I love and call home. I’m proud of that. I love working with this community and will continue to do that. We are here to help.
sustained later generations and and what meaning can be drawn from history.
The “What are we celebrating?” program is part of Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore, a free lecture series offered as a collaboration between the DeKalb County History Museum and Ellwood House Museum. The 2026 Brown Bag Lunch series will focus on commemorating the U.S. 250th anniversary. For information, visit dekalbcountyhistory.org, call 815-8955762, or visit il250.org.
– Shaw Local News Network
I actually tried to expand the resources at the sheriff’s office to provide more resources for the citizens to have. Sometimes I don’t get the funding that’s needed to do that, but I always try to get those additional ways that we can help the public. That’s my job, and will continue to do that.
As for the federal government ... I don’t have jurisdiction over the federal government.
The state and federal law enforcement agencies is different, and I don’t have jurisdiction over them. However, if someone calls because they are in distress, we are going to respond. The sheriff’s office will come, the city of DeKalb will come, Sycamore, all these municipalities. We’re always going to come take that report and try to help and calm the situation down.
If there was something that is deemed to have potentially happened, we would forward that information on to the appropriate agency for a follow-up investigation. ... That most likely would be the FBI because again, I don’t have the jurisdiction to investigate the federal government. But we could forward that information to them, or the U.S. Attorney’s [General’s] Office who would have that jurisdiction for a follow-up.
And that goes for the same thing. If it was believed that there was a federal crime that had been committed outside of a federal agent’s official capacity, then again that could be forwarded to the FBI for follow-up for potential charging documents, or with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. That’s what comes to my mind.
But I want you all to know that we’re here for you. We always have been and we always will be. That’s never going to change. The sheriff’s office is here to serve this community, and we’ve always done that and we will continue to do that.”
School District 427 names Kristen Campbell new superintendent
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
Sycamore School District 427 soon will have a new superintendent after a recent unanimous vote from the school board.
Kristen Campbell, the current assistant superintendent of high schools for Oswego School District 308, was named the district’s next superintendent during the board’s regular meeting Jan. 27.
“I’m so excited for this opportunity to be here and meet you all, and be part of your community,” Campbell said. Campbell, who was an adjunct professor at Trinity International University from 2019 to 2024, shook hands with every member of the school board and staff working at the meeting.
“I look forward to future conversations,” she said. “Thank you so much for this opportunity to lead your district, and I look forward to future conversations. Thank you so much for being here and for this support this evening. This means a lot.”
She will begin her role as superintendent March 1, according to a news
release from the district.
District officials undertook a monthslong search for a new leader after the unexpected exit of former Superintendent Steve Wilder in August. District administrator Nick Reineck has held the role in an interim capacity since August.
“It’s been a long journey, but I think we’re happy where we landed,” board member Alex Grados said Jan. 27.
“We’re excited to have you, Kristen, and we appreciate – or I appreciate –the board’s collaboration on this. I think in the long run we have accomplished great things.”
In the release, district officials said they chose Campbell because of her approach to education and leadership centered on students.
She began her career as an English teacher. She holds multiple advanced degrees, including a doctorate in English from Concordia University Chicago and two master’s degrees from Northeastern University.
Board President Michael DeVito said he is “beyond excited” with the direction the district is taking by selecting Campbell as superintendent.
administration for its work after Wilder’s departure from the district.
District officials have refused to say why Wilder left, only noting that it was a mutual decision. Wilder at the time also called it mutual but declined to provide further details.
“We also have a very dedicated staff who filled a gap that we had for a long period of time,” Zantout said.
Board member Beth Marie Evans specifically thanked Reineck for his efforts.
“Thank you, Nick, especially,” Evans said. “Nick really ... stood in the gap – I can’t think of any better way to put it – for the district.”
Reineck said he appreciated her sentiment but steered the conversation back to Campbell.
“That’s enough about me, let’s make this about someone else right now,” Reineck said. “I appreciate it, though. This is not my night.”
“This is the most important decision that a board of education can make for students, for stakeholders, and we didn’t take this lightly,” DeVito said.
Before the unanimous vote, board member Alan Zantout thanked district
Board member Cole Regnery said he really likes the board’s selection.
“I’m a homeowner, I’m a father, my son is going to go to these schools, and I just think this is such an exciting moment for us,” Regnery said.
Photo provided by Sycamore Community School District 427 Kristen Campbell was named the Sycamore district’s next superintendent during a school board meeting Jan. 27.
RTW Veteran Center in DeKalb opens
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
The RTW Veteran Center, a veteran service and veteran impact organization, held a soft opening Jan. 28 at its new headquarters in DeKalb.
DeKalb resident and veteran Daniel “Doc” Habeel and his late wife, Arnetha Gholston-Habeel, co-founded the organization years ago under the same name.
RTW Veteran Center has a long history, dating back to
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
DeKalb library to host voter registration Feb. 10
the early 2010s and its roots in Chicago’s Washington Park neighborhood.
Habeel hosted community members at the new space, 854 W. Lincoln Highway, to help spread the word.
The center is expected to include programming such as live performances and fish fries, along with other activities.
The nonprofit Made in DeKalb also is headquartered at the center. It will offer training for textile manufacturing.
The DeKalb Public Library will host a voter registration for residents ages 18 and older to register for DeKalb County’s next General Primary Election. The free registration will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 10 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St.
Library staff will guide attendees through the registration process and answer questions. Participants can bring a valid photo ID and current address proof. The registration is part of the
library’s America 250 initiative. No registration is required.
For information, email amyf@dkpl.org, visit the DeKalb County Clerk’s website, or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6108.
DeKalb library to host NAMI informational booth Feb. 9
The DeKalb Public Library will host a National Alliance on Mental Illness information booth for community members to learn about the organization’s resources.
The free booth will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Feb. 9 in the library’s main lobby,
309 Oak St.
Attendees will be able to meet NAMI staff and learn about Spanish and English events and programs. No registration is required.
For information, call 815-756-9568, ext. 2112, or email leahh@dkpl.org.
Know Your Rights program set for Feb. 8 in DeKalb
The DeKalb Public Library will offer a program for adults to learn information about understanding and protecting rights.
The free program will begin at 1:30 p.m.
ABOVE LEFT: RTW Veteran Center co-founder Daniel “Doc” Habeel is all smiles Jan. 28 during a soft opening for thecenter in DeKalb.
ABOVE: Some of the RTW Veteran Center’s sewing machines are seen Jan. 28 during the soft opening.
LEFT: One of the RTW Veteran Center’s sewing machines is seen during the soft opening for the RTW Veteran Center in DeKalb..
Feb. 8 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
Attendees can learn about how to understand and protect their rights in situations, including law enforcement interaction and protest participation. The program is available in English and Spanish.
The presentation will be led by DeKalb Migrant Aid. The program is part of the library’s America 250 initiative. No registration is required.
For information, email amyf@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6108. – Shaw Local News Network
Photos by Megann Horstead
Betsy and Todd Hendrey, owners of the DeKalb and Sycamore Confectionary stores, will lead a presentation at the Feb. 6 DeKalb Women’s Club
DeKalb Women’s Club to meet Feb. 6
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The next DeKalb Women’s Club meeting will feature a presentation led by DeKalb Confectionary owner Todd Hendrey. The meeting will begin at 1 p.m. Feb. 6 in the Oak Crest Retirement Center’s pub area, 2944 Greenwood Acres Drive, DeKalb.
Hendrey will discuss the confectionary’s mission and new information. Participants can enter the pub area through door 26.
The DeKalb Women’s Club has provided scholarships and supported international projects and the community since 1896.
For more information, email dekalbwomensclub1896@gmail.com
Artisan market, master gardeners series coming to DeKalb County
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The DeKalb County Master Gardeners will host an artisan market and the next edition of the Gardeners Pathway series.
The event will be from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 28 at the DeKalb County Farm Bureau, 1350 W. Prairie Drive, Sycamore. Participants can buy garden-inspired items, crafts, handmade decor, gardening supplies and plants from nurseries and artisans.
Mark Dwyer, garden manager of the Healing Garden at Edgerton Hospital, will offer a keynote speech.
Gardeners Pathway breakout sessions include:
• “Gardening with Spring Ephemerals,” Brian Hale
• “East/West – The Japanese Tea Garden: A Personal Journey,” Julia Fauci
• “Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Tomatoes But Were Afraid to Ask,” Bob Zeni
• “Design Combinations for Pollinators,” Mark Dwyer
• “In the Garden Lens: Photography and Videography/Tips for Plants and Pollinators,” Randy Casperson
• “Secrets of Seed Whisperers,” Erin McNeal
• “Downsizing Your Garden Without Downsizing Your Joy,” Lori Brown
• “Roots, Shoots and Second Chances,” Karen Larson
• “Top Tips for Growing Tomatoes,” Bob Zeni
The event costs $50. Registration is required and due Feb. 14.
Early accommodation requests to participate in the event are encouraged. To make a request or for information, call 815-758-8194.
Photo provided by Doug Oleson
Blood donations needed during cold weather snap
O-negative, O-positive donors especially sought
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Versiti Blood Center of Illinois is seeking blood donations, especially O-negative and O-positive blood, from residents to restore hospital and patient blood supplies affected by recent winter weather.
The winter weather reduced donor turnout, closed donation centers, disrupted blood drives and canceled donation appointments, according to a news release from the center.
“We are grateful to our donors, coordinators, and Versiti teams who have adapted to recent weather challenges,” Versiti Blood Center of Illinois blood services senior director Shelley Whitsey said in the release. “As conditions improve, a donation this week can support multiple patients. By showing up for one another, we help ensure continued care for Illinois communities.”
2126 45th St.
• Joliet Blood Donation Center, 2625 W. Jefferson St.
• Naperville Blood Donation Center, 1297 S. Naper Blvd.
• Tinley Park Blood Donation Center, 16100 Centennial Circle
• Westmont Blood Donation Center, 6317 S. Fairview Ave.
• Winfield Blood Donation Center, 27W281 Geneva Road
Universal blood types including O-negative and O-positive blood can be transfused to people such as cancer patients, trauma victims and patients undergoing surgery. Blood platelets also are in demand for trauma survivors, premature babies and cancer patients.
Versiti Blood Center of Illinois donor center locations include:
• Aurora Blood Donation Center, 1200 N. Highland Ave.
• Bloomingdale Blood Donation Center, 398 W. Army Trail Road
• Crystal Lake Blood Donation Center, 6296 Northwest Highway
• DeKalb Blood Donation Center, 2428 Sycamore Road
• Elgin Blood Donation Center, 1140 N. McLean Blvd.
• Geneva Blood Donation Center, 2000 W. State St., Unit 1E
• Highland Blood Donation Center,
• Yorkville Blood Donation Center, 728 E. Veterans Parkway, Suite 112 Community members ages 17 and older in good health and meeting eligibility requirements are encouraged to donate. Parental consent is required for donors younger than 17. Donors may bring a photo ID including their birth date.
Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins also will be accepted. To schedule an appointment, visit Versiti.org or call 877-232-4376.
Versiti Blood Center of Illinois is a nonprofit that provides expert medical and technical support and blood products and services.
For information, visit versiti.org.
AP file photo
Blood donations, especially O-negative and O-positive blood, are sought to restore hospital and patient blood supplies affected by recent winter weather.
LOOKING BACK
1926 – 100 YEARS AGO
Declaring that the east is experiencing business prosperity that cannot be compared with previous years and that the trade increase is rapidly sweeping eastward, E. S. Rauworth, president of the Wurlitzer Piano company of DeKalb, has returned from a business trip to New York city with the announcement that the DeKalb piano factory is planning for the biggest year of business in the history of the industry. Mr. Rauworth, in his resume of business conditions in the eastern section of the country, emphasizes that optimistic view that is being taken by financial leaders of the east, who are certain of a continued prosperity that will include the entire country.
In the current issue of the Illinois Manufacturer, a publication that endeavors to cover all manufacturers’ new and improved, is an announcement of the U. S. Art Binder company to locate in Sycamore. In the issue is the statement that a new bookbindery factory, one-story and basement, with an approximate cost of $50,000, will be erected in Sycamore.
The annual Mid-Winter fair started yesterday afternoon with every indication of being one of the most successful of such events which Sycamore has witnessed. The crowd for the opening day of the fair was large enough to warrant a prophecy that the three succeeding days would continue to be a paying proposition.
Stockholders of the Illinois Thresher company met yesterday for the purpose of bearing a report as the financial condition of the company and to make a decision as to whether the company should again endeavor to manufacture threshing machines, and decided to dissolve completely.
Said by critics in the larger cities to be the best picture of the year, the much-discussed film drama “The Phantom of the Opera”, starring Lon Chaney, opened at the DeKalb theatre at a matinee performance this afternoon. The great drama, which has caused such favorable comment, will remain at the DeKalb theatre for four days, the final showing to be on Saturday night. “The Phantom of the Opera” is said to be
was struck by a westbound Chicago Great Western freight train. The two vehicles had been hooked together with a chain and the jeep had just reached the tracks and was pulling south when the collision occurred.
1976 – 50 YEARS AGO
There were no citizen comments Tuesday night at one of the DeKalb Plan Commission public hearings on four amendments to the city revised zoning ordinances. One of the amendments would lift a ban on flag poles and post lights in the yards of DeKalb residences. City officials said the yard accessory pole prohibition was an apparent oversight in city ordinances.
even better and larger in scope of production than the film, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” which showed at the DeKalb theatre for four days to packed houses.
Old Man Ground Hog, who made his appearance in DeKalb early this morning, late today made the announcement that he will remain in DeKalb to stay.
1951 – 75 YEARS AGO
World Day of Prayer will be observed in 92 countries according to Mrs. Earl Butler, chairman of the World Day of Prayer Committee of the Malta Council of Church Women. As customary, the date of its observance will be the first Friday of Lent which falls on February 9. The chain of prayer will be made of millions of people worshipping in all corners and centers of the earth and praying in 60 different languages.
The new addition to Kirkland High School has been completed. The building has four rooms; agriculture class room; agriculture farm shop; industrial art room; bus repair and storage room. The wall was removed between the old agriculture and English room, thus making a large room for the eighth grade. The old shop was converted into a seventh-grade classroom. Tables that were originally in the study hall
have been moved to classrooms and separate desks have been put in the study hall.
Because of bad weather on Thursday school was dismissed at 1:30 to try and get the pupils returned to their homes. One bus with a few pupils on it was unable to get through the huge drifts, so the children were forced to stay in town for the night.
A two-way radio system for emergency communications that will blanket its entire gas and electric service area is being completed by the Public Service Company of Northern Illinois. Fixed transmitter stations have been installed at 22 strategically located spots in the area and receiving sets already are installed in many trucks and service cars and when the installation is competed, a total of 338 vehicles will be equipped for sending and receiving messages.
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Schultz returned home Wednesday night following a threeweek vacation in California, where they visited their son, Tom, who is in a naval hospital near Oakland.
A Sycamore man was injured and a rural Maple Park man shaken up Thursday afternoon when the jeep with which they were trying to pull a stalled car from a snowbank
Plans for a 640-acre transmission station site for Commonwealth Edison Co., in the northern part of DeKalb County are underway. The project is part of the company’s long-range planning and probably would not be built until 1980. The transmission station would be bounded by Story, Moose Range and Base Line roads.
2001 – 25 YEARS AGO
Valentine’s Day signals love and happiness for people on Feb. 14. For Tom Smith, it is one of his best business days of the year. Smith and his wife, Sharon, are the owners of the DeKalb and Sycamore Confectionary stores.
Northern Illinois University’s Blackwell History of Education Museum has taken possession of perhaps the world’s most extensive collection of audio-visual artifacts. Two graduate assistants from Utah State University, where the collection formerly was housed, loaded the 250 pieces in a Ryder truck and drove them to DeKalb during the recent holiday break. Members of the Blackwell Museum staff now are unpacking the items, stored in bubble wrap in the basement of the Milan Township District 83 One-Room School on Campus, and preparing to take an inventory and then to assess the condition and value of the pieces.
A. O. Smith’s container-making subsidiary, Engineered Storage Products, was sold Jan. 10 to privately owned CST Industries Inc., another manufacturer of containers for agricultural use, for an undisclosed sum.
–CompiledbySueBreese
Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives Looking northwest at the Presto Chango on South First Street in DeKalb near Lincoln Highway in 1970.
DeKalb duplex fire injures firefighters and displaces 2
By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com
Two residents were displaced, and three firefighters were injured while battling an hours-long fire at a downtown DeKalb duplex Jan. 24, authorities announced Jan. 26.
Authorities said the accidental fire appeared to have erupted when someone tried to use a torch to thaw frozen pipes in the basement.
It took 4.5 hours and 36 firefighters –24 from DeKalb – to get the fire under control in freezing weather conditions, authorities said. The first DeKalb firefighters arrived about 12:42 p.m. The last ones didn’t leave until the evening.
“It was a long day,” Fire Chief Luke Howieson said Jan. 26. He said one firefighter needed some brief treatment at a local hospital emergency department, but most injuries, nothing major, were treated on scene.
He said the two displaced residents – each unit had one person living in it –are being helped by local emergency aid organizations. The American Red Cross and Family Service Agency of DeKalb County also are helping. Community members who wish to support the cause
can email Rylie Loucks-Kues, Director of Community Action, at rlouckskues@
fsadekalbcounty.org or visit www. fsadekalbcounty.org.
“Our thoughts are with everyone impacted, and we remain committed to supporting our community during this time,” according to a social media post from the agency.
No residents were injured. But the building was destroyed by the fire, sustaining an estimated $250,000 in damage, according to the DeKalb Fire Department.
“Unfortunately, the building ended up the way it did,” Howieson said. “It was tough with that style of construction.”
The two-story, two-unit home in the 700 block of East Lincoln Highway, adjacent to a BP gas station off Seventh Street, appeared heavily damaged the morning of Jan. 26.
Windows were boarded up, the roof had collapsed and debris had fallen around the home. Ice from the water suppression efforts had built up around the home, the cold weather preventing it from melting.
Kelsey Rettke
The city of DeKalb has roped off the remains of a two-story duplex on Jan. 26, in the 700 block of East Lincoln Highway after the building was destroyed by fire on Jan. 24.
Kishwaukee College to host Visit Day Feb. 16
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Kishwaukee College will host a Visit Day for prospective students and their families.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Feb. 16 at the college, 21193 Malta Road, Malta.
The event includes information about starting at the college, financial aid and scholarships, student support services, Short-Term programs, athletics, student involvement and transfer, career and technical education and allied health programs. Federal Student Aid free application assistance
will be available.
The event also features an information fair and campus tours. Registration is required.
“Discovering the right academic or career path is essential for your success. Visit Day is your go-to event for all the insights you need to make that decision. Whether you are pursuing a degree, certificate, adult education or more, this event shares the need-to-know information for your Kish experience,” Kishwaukee College outreach and enrollment coordinator Sandy Castillo Guzman said in a news release.
For information or the register, visit kish.edu/visitday.
Grief support group to meet Feb. 10 and 24 in DeKalb
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Adults experiencing grief and loss can attend two grief support group sessions at the DeKalb Public Library.
The free support group will meet at 10 a.m. Feb. 10 and 24 in the library’s lower-level Bilder Family Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
Attendees will be able to meet other people experiencing loss and grief to receive support in a confidential and safe setting. Participants also can share grief experiences, learn about grief and receive grieving process insights from peers and the
group facilitator. A virtual session option is available. The sessions will be facilitated by the Family Service Agency of DeKalb County. No registration is required.
The support group does not replace other mental health services. If you need individual counseling or other mental health services, call 815-3973691 or 211. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need immediate attention for a non-life-threatening mental health need, call 988. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
For information, email chelsear@ dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1700.
Why Winter Humidity Levels Matter for Your Home
Winter in Illinois brings cold temperatures, sealed windows, and nonstop heating. While your furnace keeps your home warm, it can also strip moisture from the air. Low indoor humidity is one of the most common comfort issues homeowners face during winter, and it can affect far more than how the air feels.
In summer, a properly-sized A/C system will maintain an indoor humidity level of 50 - 65%, but during winter that can drop as low as 15%.
When humidity levels drop too low, many people notice dry skin, irritated sinuses, sore throats, and frequent static shocks. Dry air can also make your home feel colder than it is, causing your heating system to work harder and increasing energy costs. Low humidity can damage wood floors, furniture, cabinetry, and even musical instruments by causing cracking and shrinking over time.
Too much humidity can lead to condensation on windows, potentially causing the windows and sills to become discolored and even rot
due to excessive moisture. High humidity also encourages dust mites and makes the air feel stuffy.
KM Heating & Cooling recommends the AprilAire whole home humidifier for its reliability and performance. Unlike portable units that only treat one room at a time, an AprilAire system works with your HVAC system to deliver balanced humidity throughout your entire home.
AprilAire whole home humidifiers offer major benefits. They improve indoor comfort by adding moisture evenly and automatically, and support better health by reducing dryness that can aggravate allergies and respiratory issues. They also help lower heating costs by making the air feel warmer at lower thermostat settings. With minimal maintenance and quiet operation, they are a long term solution for winter dryness.
If your home feels uncomfortably dry this winter, KM Heating & Cooling can help you find the right humidity solution for lasting comfort and protection.
For more information, please call KM Heating & Cooling at (815) 691-1991 and ask for Dave Kissel.
Photo provided by Kishwaukee College
Kishwaukee College will be hosting a Visit Day for prospective students and their families.
Longtime restaurant in DeKalb to close
DeKalb staple known for its Chinese food to shut its doors by end of 2026
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
A longtime DeKalb restaurant that offers authentic Chinese food is preparing to close up shop for good.
On Dec. 31, Yen Ching will serve its last meals.
Co-owner Marilyn Yin, 68, runs and operates the establishment alongside her husband, John Yin. Together, they have been in business serving up good eats for more than 40 years.
Marilyn said their customers haven’t been taking the news easily.
The Yins first made a decision to announce their impending retirement and restaurant closure to customers this past fall. Business is booming, although fans of the restaurant have been quick to voice their laments about the news.
“They’re kind of upset,” Marilyn said. “That’s why I have more business, because everybody’s kind of upset.”
Yen Ching has been a longtime staple in the DeKalb community, nestled near the Northern Illinois University campus. Originally, the restaurant put down roots in 1983 in Dubuque, Iowa. A short time later, Yen Ching relocated to DeKalb along Fourth Street.
It wasn’t until 1990 that Yen Ching settled in at its current location, 810 W. Lincoln Highway.
Marilyn said she and her husband put in a lot of effort over the years to make the space in the building their own.
Doing so came with its share of challenges for the Yins.
“This building used to be American National Bank,” Marilyn said. “It’s hard to do.”
The intricate attention to detail in the decorations and seating helped establish an atmosphere in the restaurant that takes customers on an experience, whetting their appetite for Chinese culture, tradition and cuisine.
Marilyn said it’s clear that Yen Ching has become many customers’ go-to restaurant for Chinese food.
“Most people are really, really easy and really friendly,” Marilyn said. “I have a lot of customers. It’s already three to four generations.”
The restaurant’s menu highlights many of the traditional dishes of Chinese cuisine, including beef chop suey, kung pao chicken, crabmeat rangoon, orange chicken and more.
At Yen Ching, Marilyn is responsible for waiting tables and taking customers’ orders, while her husband, John, prepares the food.
Marilyn said business has been going well.
“My husband cooks really good food,” Marilyn said. “People like it. People always remember because I have good food, good quality. They enjoy it.”
Marilyn said she looks forward to seeing customers come again.
“My efforts are all in the hope that customers will come back next time,” Marilyn said.
Yen Ching offers patrons the option of dine-in or takeout.
The restaurant is open from 4 to 8:30 p.m. Monday and from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
And for nostalgic patrons, don’t worry: There are still 11 months to enjoy your favorite dish before the doors close.
Opportunity House Launches Capital Campaign for Unique S.T.E.A.M. Workforce Training
SPONSORED
BY
Opportunity House has launched a transformational $2 million Capital Campaign to reimagine its historic workshop facility and expand community-integrated employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Driven by the passage of Illinois’ Dignity in Pay Act, which ends subminimum wages and accelerates the transition away from sheltered workshops, this campaign marks a pivotal moment for Opportunity House. The organization is responding by investing in innovative training environments that prepare individuals for competitive, meaningful employment in the community.
At the heart of this transformation is a firstof-its-kind S.T.E.A.M. Workforce Development & Training Center for adults with disabilities in Illinois , anchored by Project Lead the Way (PLTW) curriculum. Through hands-on, applied learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math, participants will build transferable, job-ready skills aligned with high-growth career pathways.
The redesigned center will feature a S.T.E.A.M. Career Exploration Lab, vocational skill-building suites, employment readiness training, life-skills instruction, and dedicated employer partnership
spaces. By integrating PLTW’s nationally recognized curriculum, Opportunity House will deliver structured, industry-relevant learning that emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world application.
This innovative model prioritizes small-group instruction and individualized learning pathways that strengthen confidence, independence, and long-term job success. By addressing systemic barriers to employment, Opportunity House is advancing inclusive innovation while strengthening DeKalb County’s workforce with skilled, motivated employees.
Additionally, Opportunity House will add an educational auditorium, a new wooden gym floor, and spectator bleachers so families and supporters can cheer on our outstanding Special Olympics team.
Community members, donors, and partners are invited to support this pivotal transition and help shape the future of inclusive employment in DeKalb County.
For more information, please contact: Opportunity House
Tom Matya, CEO/President Ph: (815) 895-5108 ext 158
Email: tmatya@ohinc.org ohinc.org
Photos by Mark Busch
The popular eatery Yen Ching, seen Thursday, is set to close by the end of the year after more than 40 years in business.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Somomauk church to serve chili and vegetable soup supper Feb. 7
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church will offer an all-you-can-eat chili and vegetable soup supper for community members. The supper will be served from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 7 in the church’s parish center, 130 W. LaSalle St., Somonauk.
• DUPLEX FIRE
Continued from page 10
Howieson himself met at the site with a building inspector on Jan. 26 in the afternoon.
The city of DeKalb roped off the entrance to the building and the sidewalk in front. And the right-turn lane from East Lincoln Highway onto Eighth Street remains blocked as of Jan. 26 in the afternoon because of ongoing ice accumulation, Howieson said.
Forecasts aren’t promising that the freezing temperatures will let up anytime soon.
Temperatures were about the same Jan. 26 as they were midday Jan. 24 when the DeKalb Fire Department was called to the blaze: A biting, frigid cold, with subzero windchills.
Howieson said crews had to return briefly late Jan. 24 to put out a hot spot that caught fire again.
Were they worried about the gas station feet away from the flames on Jan. 24?
“The way the house was situated and how it was burning, no we didn’t really have too much of a concern,” he said. “And gas storage tanks are underground there.”
Multi-agency, multi-hour response in frigid cold
More than a dozen emergency agencies came out during the seven-hour response, according to the fire department. DeKalb firefighters responded to the call about 12:42 p.m. from the station right behind the duplex.
The fire started in the basement and quickly spread to the rest of the building, into the walls and up through the attic.
Plumes of dark smoke billowed into the air for hours on Jan. 24.
And although residents were safely evacuated, firefighters swiftly learned they also couldn’t remain inside the building, Howieson said. Ladders were set up to try to gain access
The supper features a relish tray, beverage and homemade desserts. Hot dogs and chips also will be served for children. The supper will be available for dine-in or carryout. The supper costs $12 for adults, $7 for children ages 4 to 10, and free for children ages 3 and younger.
– Shaw Local News Network
through upstairs windows so water could be hosed inside.
“There’s no fire stops in older construction like that,” Howieson said. “We did start inside fighting the fire. We had to break open the walls, open up the ceiling to try to vent the fire. We were in there a little while. But it got to a point on the second floor where it was too dangerous to keep our guys in there.”
It was about 1 degree midday Jan. 24, with windchills almost 15 degrees below zero.
Authorities brought in a Huskie transit bus to act as a warming station for working firefighters. Paramedics and ambulances were on scene. Firefighters were rotated out to keep them warm and safe, Howieson said. Police and county dispatch assisted with traffic control.
And the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System alarm was struck, which sends out a call for coordinated aid to DeKalb. First responders from neighboring towns then took over local 911 call responses to fill shift needs.
“Just because we’re having a fire doesn’t mean the other emergencies stop,” Howieson said. “You’ve got to have those plans in place, and fortunately, we do. It helps us be prepared for days like this. We really appreciate all the help.”
And it’s reciprocated, Howieson said. The DeKalb Fire Department is one of the largest in the area, so DeKalb crews frequently get called to assist neighboring towns. Recently, DeKalb firefighters assisted Rochelle crews who responded to an early morning house fire that killed one man. The suspected cause for the fire was a supplemental heat source, authorities said.
Emergency personnel from Cortland, Genoa-Kingston, Shabbona, Somonauk, Maple Park, Sycamore, Malta, Richelle, Elburn, Waterman, Sugar Grove, ComEd, Nicor and DeKalb police, along with other city departments, assisted in the response.
The duplex is uninhabitable due to damage, authorities said.
