MidWeek_121725

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2025 • S h awLo c a l .co m

ROOTED IN DEKALB

Rooted for Good recieves aid from state rep. for new headquarters / 6 NEW

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Former St. Mary’s Hospital plans can move ahead

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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Plans for 32 apartments in St. Mary’s Hospital building gain momentum in DeKalb.

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com After repeated delays, plans for developing the former St. Mary’s Hospital building in DeKalb may be a go.

At its meeting last week, the DeKalb City Council was briefed on new developments concerning the vacant property, 145 Fisk Ave. City Manager Bill Nicklas said the project has seen significant progress.

“We’ve been looking to have a final engineering plan in preparation for future work on this property,” Nicklas said. “At the November 10 meeting, we were directed with Mr. [Jon] Sauser to get something to you at the first meeting in December. Here we are, and we do have a final engineering plan.”

City staff said they are in receipt of a final engineering plan.

Local developer Jon Sauser has proposed plans to turn the former St. Mary’s Hospital building into apartments.

Three years ago, the City Council approved a zoning change that would allow the 103-year-old building at 145 Fisk Ave. to hold 32 apartments. Since that time, the project has been met with repeated delays.

Nicklas said the final engineering plan has been reviewed by city staff.

“There are some minor tweaks, but it’s been prepared by Mr. [David] Weber of Willett Hoffman,” Nicklas said. “We’ve

PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzles on page 21

Mark Busch file photo

The long-vacant former St. Mary’s Hospital at 145 Fisk Ave. on July 30 in DeKalb. worked with them many times in the past.”

Nicklas urged the council to reconsider the project based on the final engineering plan submitted to the city.

“We’ve reviewed it, and we feel that it meets, essentially, our requirements,” he said. “We’re willing to work through minor details that may be there.”

In a unanimous decision, the City

Council voted to reject a measure that would have repealed the action that greenlit the project in the first place.

Third Ward Alderman Tracy Smith was absent.

Plans for the former St. Mary’s Hospital building will head to the Planning and Zoning Commission for review at a later date. After which, the City Council will have a chance to weigh in.

ON THE COVER Rooted for Good Executive Director Heather Edwards stocks shelves Oct. 30 at the facility in DeKalb. The food pantry was preparing for the potential impact of SNAP benefits being cut off due to the government shut down.

See story, page 6.

Photo by March Busch

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.

DeKalb County Community Foundation awards $10K in Promise Grants contact@shawmedia.com Six area programs that address hunger, medical resources, social services, education, mental health and community-building for the elderly recently received a funding boost through the DeKalb County Community Foundation.

The projects support underserved populations in DeKalb County. Funds came from the foundation’s Promise Grant – Subvencion de Promesa program.

Grant distributions totaled $10,000 among six local organizations.

“At a time when fear and uncertainty weigh heavily on so many of our neighbors, this grant is a reminder that DeKalb County stands for hope, safety and belonging,” Rylie Loucks Kues of Family Service Agency of DeKalb County said in a news release.

“The Promise Grant allows our community action program to continue creating spaces where every family, regardless of language, background or status, feels seen, supported and valued.”

for children with developmental disabilities in DeKalb Township • Rooted for Good – $2,000 to purchase highly requested hygiene products to distribute at local food pantry events • Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project – $1,000 to support the expansion of community legal education and outreach in DeKalb County • Suicide prevention services – $2,525 to support trauma-informed training for DeKalb School District 428 staff • DeKalb Mutual Aid Inc. – $300 to support the senior letter-writing program The foundation is committed to practicing diversity, equity and inclusion in fulfilling its mission and services.

One of several grantmaking programs at the foundation, the Promise Grant – Subvencion de Promesa program receives support from the Promise Fund – El Fondo de la Promesa, and the Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation Howard and Mildred Eychaner Fund.

Donations to these or any fund at the Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project bilingual manager of programs Claudia Oliveros foundation can be made online at (left) accepting a 2025 Promise Grant from DeKalb County Community Foundation grants dekalbccf.org/donate or by mail to the manager Austin Schroeder DeKalb County Community FoundaPromise Grants awarded: Belonging program tion, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore. For • Family Service Agency – $1,650 to sup• Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley – $2,525 additional information, email grants@ port the Vecino a Vecino: Bridges of to provide outpatient medical services dekalbccf.org.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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The storefront outside Allegory Decoration and Design in DeKalb is seen in this undated photo.

DeKalb woman opens new decoration, design shop

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com A new shop promising a special curated collection of decoration and design essentials has found a home in the landmark downtown Fargo block in DeKalb, its owner said.

Allegory Decoration and Design, 629 E. Lincoln Highway, opened this fall and is run and operated by DeKalb resident Kimberly Lewis.

Lewis said business is going well so far.

“I launched with a soft opening during that November record snowfall,” Lewis said. “But the response from the community, it’s been lovely so far.”

An experienced retail manager with a background at Ralph Lauren, Shabby Chic and Farrow & Ball, Lewis brings a flair for decoration and design to the

downtown DeKalb business scene. The DeKalb native also draws upon experience locally in the Chicago area for local small businesses, including flooring and remodeling kitchens and bathrooms.

Lewis has long been inspired to open her own shop.

“I am a shopkeeper at heart, so operating my own home store has always been a dream and a goal,” Lewis said.

“Allegory is where I can share my joy, creativity, and product expertise to its highest potential in service. And Allegory was born from years in retail showroom management and design sales in the Chicagoland, specifying furnishings, flooring, tile and countertops.”

As a Northern Illinois University alumnus, Lewis said choosing to run a shop in town made sense for her.

See DESIGN SHOP, page 13

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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Rooted for Good’s new home plans boosted by state funds State Rep. Briel helps secure $794K in state funding for Rooted for Good

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Rooted for Good – a nonprofit working to address hunger and expand access to healthy, sustainably grown foods – is about 30% of the way toward funding a new $6 million headquarters on DeKalb’s northwest side.

Most recently, the organization was aided by efforts from state Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, whose office helped secure almost $800,000 in state funding.

Rooted for Good Executive Director Heather Edwards said that having Briel’s support is important.

“It’s very exciting for us to have that support, so it means a lot to us,” Edwards said.

The new headquarters will serve multiple purposes. It will include a community center, space for job training for people with and without disabilities, classes on topics such as nutrition and health, a garden center and more.

“The center will be a place where people can receive support in more ways than one,” Briel said in a news release.

“We’ve seen prices for food increase, housing expenses threaten livelihoods and the conditions of the job market.

This center will help members of our community find a way to get back on track.”

The facility will serve in part as a food hub and be the first of its kind in northern Illinois.

Project leaders said they are in the quiet phase of a capital fundraising campaign to raise $6 million.

Rooted for Good founder and project director Dan Kenney said the nonprofit’s goal is simple.

Kenney said the hope is to break ground either in late 2026 or early 2027.

Once built, the new headquarters will be along North Annie Glidden Road instead of Bethany Road.

That facility currently is owned by Northern Illinois University.

Rooted for Good intends to keep its food hub in Genoa but discontinue its garden center and greenhouse opera-

Mark Busch file photos

Rooted for Good, a nonprofit working to address hunger and expand access to healthy, sustainably grown foods, is about 30% of the way toward funding a new $6 million headquarters on DeKalb’s northwest side. Executive Director Heather Edwards is seen. tion in Kirkland.

“We want to try to centralize our staff and make it more efficient by having everything all together in one spot as much as possible,” Kenney said.

The new DeKalb headquarters has been years in the making.

In 2023, the city approved rezoning for an 8-acre property located along the east side of North Annie Glidden Road, south of Twombly Road and north of Ridge Drive.

Kenney championed the cause and what it means for the community.

“We wanted to locate in that neighborhood because it’s considered a food desert,” Kenney said. “I know there’s some grocery stores there now that weren’t there when we originally started to talk about this project in that neighborhood, but the grocery stores still have limited access to fresh,

The office of state Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, (shown at a July town hall in DeKalb), helped secure almost $800,000 in state funds for Rooted for Good’s new headquarters. healthy, nutritious food.”

Briel expressed excitement about

helping Rooted for Good to kick-start its fundraising efforts for a new headquarters.

She has helped secure $794,000 in state funding to help make it possible.

“Rooted for Good dedicates passionate work uplifting the people who rely on their services,” Briel said in the release.

“This was a cause that I advocated for without giving up, and I’m glad to see this process kick off.”

Kenney said he, too, appreciates Briel’s support.

“It’s wonderful to have her support, and they have the support of the community food center,” Kenney said. “I think it’s going to be a very impactful project that will benefit not only the city of DeKalb or that neighborhood of DeKalb, but also benefit the entire region.”

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE CHRISTMAS EVE VIGIL OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24

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1925 – 100 YEARS AGO

Fire came near doing much damage at the Thomas Roberts home on North First street last evening, the early discovery of the blaze on the part of a student at the home saving the home from great damage. The fire was discovered about 11:30 o’clock in the evening by one of the young women students residing at the home and through the efficient work of the fire department the blaze was extinguished with a loss of only about $255.

Tomorrow and Saturday will witness the official opening celebration of the new DeKalb Trust & Savings bank building, being built this year and completed but a few days ago. Everything is in readiness for the opening of the remodeled bank building, Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives officials stated today, and it is expected The Grant and Stevenson towers on Northern Illinois University’s west campus are shown here that several thousand people will visit the in a southward view from March 1968.. bank on the two official opening days. were present last evening at a dinner Paul and Pacific enroute from Kirkland to Saturday of this week is an all-important meeting held at the Rice Hotel, given by DeKalb. Splitting a switch at Bradt, the Chauncey Watson of DeKalb. Watson has day in Sycamore, especially for the huge equipment went off the rails and it been entertaining the deputy attaché of youngsters, as old Saint Nick in all his required two huge cranes to put it back on glory expects to arrive about two o’clock, the British Embassy in Washington, Mr. M. the track. and remain here for about an hour, during Whalley Taylor, for several days and last evening introduced Mr. Taylor to the which time he expects to shake hands The Charter Grove Sew and Sew Four-H with all the kiddies of the city and present business men and civic agricultural Club met for its second party of the leaders of the community. them with a gift. month. A sleigh ride opened the party at 7 o’clock. After Christmas caroling, the A big Christmas tree was erected in the group returned to the home of Mr. and Several merchants of this city have started plans whereby their store entranc- second-floor lobby of the Courthouse Mrs. Charles Larson, where club members today. Janitor Geore Boleen and Yardman es will be better protected against enjoyed games and refreshments.

Frank Tedford were busy getting the lights burglary, following the robbery at the and ornaments for the tree ready for Secor store on Tuesday night. Mr. Secor 1975 – 50 YEARS AGO installation. The big tree in the lobby is an yesterday had a new lock placed on his Christmas tree sales are reported as ancient custom around the Courthouse door. Anderson Brothers clothing store normal in several DeKalb County lots. was today being better protected against and the sheriff has seen that one stands Some salesmen said there are fewer tree burglary; a carpenter having been engaged there every Christmas for many years. lots this winter and sales have been to install a lock that is said to be burglar steady so far. If your Christmas will be Clarence Barshinger, DeKalb County proof insofar that it cannot be “jimmied” sitting underneath a Douglas Fir tree this dairyman, has shown that it pays to be as was the lock on the Secor store. season, you’re in the majority. kind and take good care of dairy cows. C. S. Rhode, University of Illinois dairyman, Work on the new DeKalb city garage, Washington – Members of Congress, says that Barshinger bought a cow for that is located to the rear of the city hall who often are criticized for being too free another dairy head improvement associa- with the taxpayers’ money, cannot be building has been completed and at the tion member. Her best record in the first present time the garage houses two city accused of having the same problem with herd was 8,200 pounds of milk containing their own, at least not when it comes to vehicles, the Ford roadster belonging to the commissioner of public works and the 290 pounds of butterfat. But with better shelling out for charity. With the federal feed and care, she gave over 12,000 police department car. Space has been government’s annual Combined Federal pounds of milk and 436 pounds of allowed for another car.

Campaign (CFC) charity drive soon to end, butterfat in the present herd. local organizers are beginning to tally the 1950 – 75 YEARS AGO take. Out of approximately 140 federal Even clearing snow offers troubles for Civic and professional men of DeKalb, units in the Washington area, guess which and several outstanding men in agriculture the railroad of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. two have done the worst job of meeting

9 their goals? That’s right, the House is No. 139, following by the Senate, coming in dead last at 140.

Lynne Morel will be playing Santa Claus for 25 persons in the next few weeks. Mrs. Morel will be putting jobs in the stockings of many area residents who have been out of work. Mrs. Morel, county Comprehensive Employment Training Act (CETA) coordinator, hopes to fill the last of the 96 jobs by Jan. 1. Most of the 25 jobs remaining are unskilled positions and Mrs. Morel says she already has plenty of applicants.

2000 – 25 YEARS AGO

If the goal of politics is public service, and elections are for choosing our best public servants, it’s unlikely that Clinton Rosette Middle School’s student senate would need the U. S. Supreme Court or manual recounts to score a local victory.

The fifth graders who helped pack holiday boxes at the Voluntary Action Center’s Senior Services Center on Wednesday, 23 in all, weren’t elected, however. They chose to be part of a group whose primary mission is to work for charitable activities around the community.

An adaptive baseball league is being formed through the DeKalb/Sycamore Association for Special Recreation for play next summer. The association is looking for boys and girls of all ages who are not able to play organized baseball or softball with kids their own age.

Faith United Methodist Church of Genoa is collecting new hats, mittens, scarves, underwear and socks. Items will be donated to the children of Chicago through the Marcy Newberry Foundation.

In his column this week, Chronicle contributing writer Craig Rice talked about the death of small towns. Urban sprawl is making it harder for small towns to remain intact. Fortunately, many small towns in DeKalb County have successful stood their ground. Towns such as Shabbona, Waterman, Kingston and Somonauk have remained vital, living communities.

Residents fortunate enough to live in these towns should join in the effort to fight the battle.

– Compiled by Sue Breese

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

LOOKING BACK

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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Make sure you call an Agent who specializes in the 55+ market!

WATCH OUT FOR SCAMS ALL AROUND US The digital era has its benefits. People from all over are able to connect almost instantaneously. Computers have made fast work of many tasks that once took hours or days to complete. Information or even funds can be shared at the click of a button. But for all of the benefits technology has provided, there is a darker side to the connectivity of the modern world. What has become easier for the general public also has become easier from those looking to take advantage of others. Scams and internet crimes are now commonplace. The Federal Bureau of Investigation reported that a record $16.6 billion in losses due to scams were reported to them in 2024. The Pew Research Center indicates 73 percent of adults in the United States have experienced some kind of online scam or attack. The office of Ken Paxton, the Attorney General of Texas, reports various ways to recognize scams, and that spotting these tactics can help people avoid being taken advantage of. ¥ Someone contacts you. When a party contacts you first, you canÕt be certain of their legitimacy. Also, email addresses and caller ID can be faked. ¥ Easy money is offered. Many scammers dangle a promise of some sort of financial gain, whether itÕs a prize or an easy loan. These are usually too good to be true. ¥ Personal information is requested. Be on alert any time someone asks for personal information, whether itÕs a bank account number or other identifying information. You could become a victim of identity theft. ¥ A request for money up front. If someone requests money to pay off a debt or to receive a prize, it is likely a scammer trying to take your money. There are many types of scams, and the following are some prominent ones. ¥ Counterfeit merchandise: A scammer can replicate the look of a legitimate retailerÕs website. Purchasing items online through a link may lead you to a counterfeit site selling merchandise that is not legitimate and/or will not even arrive. ¥ Charity and disaster fraud: Charity fraud scams typically emerge in the wake of a natural disaster or another sudden, tragic event. Scammers may target generous individuals through email, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, and cold calls. Never donate to charities you have not verified as legitimate. ¥ Cryptocurrency investment fraud: Scammers convince victims to deposit more and more money into financial investments using cryptocurrency. These investments are fake and all the money is under control and stolen by overseas criminal actors, says the FBI. ¥ Bogus debts: You may receive a message or threatening correspondence that demands payment on a debt that you havenÕt heard of. These scams work because some people are scared and take the bait.

Legitimate creditors will produce proof of an actual debt. ¥ Home repair scams: Unsolicited companies may offer a Òlimited-time dealÓ and rope you into having a job done with Òmaterials left over from another job.Ó Be very cautious in these scenarios, as they may take money and run. ¥ Emergency scams: These are sometimes called Grandparent Scams because they often target the elderly. A criminal may claim to be a friend or family member in dire need and request money. Some scammers sound like the person a senior knows thanks to technology that enables them to do so. Scams are a continuous problem and everyone needs to be on their guard. Safeguard your personal information and avoid paying out any money without first conducting thorough research.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

DeKalb library to offer resume basics workshop Dec. 23

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The DeKalb Public Library will offer a workshop for adults and teens to learn about the basics of creating a resume.

The free workshop will begin at 6 p.m.

Dec. 23 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Participants can learn about information to feature on a resume, what not to include and the best resume template.

Attendees can bring a laptop. No registration is required.

For information, email brittak@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2150.

Disabled residents social event set for Dec. 20 in DeKalb The DeKalb Public Library will host an event for disabled residents ages 16 and older and their caregivers to socialize and interact with each other.

The free event will be held at 1 p.m. Dec. 20 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. The event includes games, crafts and puzzles. Opportunity House and RAMP

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No registration is required.

For information, email leahh@dkpl.org or call 815-756-6-9568, ext. 2112.

Robot tournament set for Dec. 22 in DeKalb Teens in sixth through 12th grades can compete in a wireless fighting robot tournament at the DeKalb Public Library.

Use a remote control to move your robot and double hit the rival robot’s chest plate to win a fast-paced duel.

The free event will begin at 1:30 p.m.

Dec. 22 in the library’s Teen Room, 309 Oak St. Participants can use remote controls to battle robots. Robots will be provided.

The winner also will receive a candy prize.

Registration is required and available in the Teen Room.

For information, email yooneks@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6110.

– Shaw Local News Network

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS The Federated Church of Sycamore will host its annual cookie and candy sale to support the church preschool’s programs.

The sale will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dec. 19 at the church, 612 W. State St., Sycamore.

Attendees can select from various cookies and candy. Donations also will be accepted.

drive around the church to view the Nativity.

The Nativity features scenes ranging from the angel’s visits to Jesus’ birth.

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DeKalb library to host board games event Dec. 22

The DeKalb Public Library will host an event for adults to play board games with each other.

The free event will be from 6 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 22 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. Attendees can play board games including Sycamore church’s drive-thru Monopoly, checkers, Jenga, Scrabble, Nativity begins Dec. 18 Fellowship Baptist Church will host a drive- Pictionary and chess. Games will be thru Nativity for the community to celebrate provided. Participants also can bring their own games. No registration is required.

Christmas.

For information, email emilyb@dkpl.org or The free event will be from 5 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 18 through Dec. 20 at the church, 2425 call 815-756-9568, ext. 2150.

– Shaw Local News Network Bethany Road, Sycamore. Attendees can

Continued from page 4 “I love the historic downtown architecture,” she said. “I love the community and the countryside. I wanted a shop that would have good bones, big windows, and vintage charm, and I found that in the storefront that I’m situated in on what is the historic Route 66 in that landmark Fargo block on the east side of downtown DeKalb.”

At Allegory Decoration and Design, Lewis intends to offer design services, as well as retail sales and virtual appointments.

Lewis said she takes pride in what her shop has to offer.

“I have a selection of hardwood flooring, tile, and countertops that are brands that I personally favor, and I’ve specified throughout my interior design work,” she said. “These are products that I know really well.”

Lewis said she tends to lean into nature for inspiration.

“Most of the tile and countertops are inspired by stone,” she said. “There’s really beautiful, practical, wide plank [luxury vinyl planks]. There’s a beautiful quality pre-finished hardwood collection that I’ve chosen because I’ve worked with it, and I love the wood species. I love the performance, and I love the characteristics of the wood.”

At Allegory Decoration and Design, patrons will find naturalist-inspired art, objects and furnishings.

Lewis said it all reflects her love for classics.

When asked what, if any, influence

the proliferation of social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram has on her and her business, Lewis said she’s inspired by it all.

“I think it’ll be interesting to see how I can utilize any of the media platforms really to expand my reach,” she said. “I think Pinterest is a fantastic tool. I’ve been using it with clients for a really long time.”

Allegory Decoration and Design occupies about 1,000 square feet in a building anchored by Fargo Skateboarding.

Lewis said she has plenty of displays and products to roll out in the coming weeks.

“My goals as a decorator and a shop owner [are] to craft intentional layered spaces and interiors for customers that tell the unique story of their own home,” she said.

Lewis said she hopes patrons will check out what separates her shop from the competitors.

“I have a pretty specific curated collection of products, not a lot of what’s in town in DeKalb,” Lewis said. “And certainly, I wanted it to be a little more special. I’m going to be offering a lot of decorative tiles, a lot of beautiful color and patterns, not much of what’s in DeKalb.”

The shop’s hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Allegory Decoration and Design also will be open on Tuesday by appointment or by chance.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Sycamore church to hold annual cookie and candy sale Dec. 19

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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Shelter at 220 College Avenue will offer 16 beds and various support services for area youth

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Finalized plans for a new youth homeless shelter have been greenlit to proceed this week, thanks to actions taken by the DeKalb City Council.

The petitioner, Family Service Agency of DeKalb County, sought city support in its efforts to provide 24/7 emergency shelter to at-risk youth.

The facility, 220 College Ave. in DeKalb, will serve area youth ages 14 to 18 and be the first of its kind in DeKalb County.

The shelter, once it’s up and running, will feature up to 16 beds and common spaces for meals, recreation, learning and counseling.

Family Service Agency of DeKalb County Executive Director Tynisha Clegg said the agency believes that location is key for a youth homeless shelter.

“The reason we’ve chosen the city of DeKalb, first and foremost, to house this shelter was because that is a centralized location of those we’re serving,” Clegg said.

The property was previously authorized as a rooming house for the Ben Gordon Center in 1998, city documents show.

At that time, the facility allowed up to 13 people.

The property was later sold to Northwestern Medicine’s DeKalb Behavioral Health Foundation in

2015, city documents show. That facility closed in March 2025, only to be purchased in May 2025 by its current owner, Collin Ayres.

The home is currently vacant, city documents show. Family Service Agency intends to secure a three-year lease agreement with the property’s owner.

Clegg said she sees the youth homeless shelter as a valuable resource for DeKalb and the surrounding communities.

“The majority of clients that we serve that would be utilizing the shelter are city of DeKalb residents,” Clegg said.

Clegg emphasized her agency’s experience with intervention and problem-solving.

“These youth will not only be monitored 24/7, but they’ll also be receiving services,” Clegg said.

“It’s not just that staff is going to be sitting there awake with them. If they’re youth that are coming in the middle of the night or youth that are awake and trying to do things that they shouldn’t be doing, our staff is trained and equipped to work with them to resolve or address whatever may be happening in the community, in that house.”

Previously, the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission provided unanimous support for the agency’s plans.

Council approval was subject to a set of conditions.

They include, among other things, that the shelter be staffed 24/7 by three staffers and the parking lot require three spaces.

The Family Service Agency is the only entity allowed to use the property.

The shelter also is required to follow the city’s municipal code and state licensing requirements.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF Winter solstice celebration program set for Dec. 20

Children ages four to 13 can celebrate the winter solstice during a program at the DeKalb Public Library.

The free program begins at 2 p.m.

Dec. 20 in the library’s Story and

Activity Room, 309 Oak St. The program features crafts, activities and storytelling. The program is first-come, first-served.

For information, email stormye@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3310.

– Shaw Local News Network

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15 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Youth homeless shelter plans for DeKalb approved

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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Goal is to raise $60,000 for resident support, building improvements

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Barb City Manor, an independent retirement living community in DeKalb, hopes to spread a bit of cheer for a good cause this holiday season.

The nonprofit retirement facility’s annual end-of-year fundraising campaign, dubbed “Light Up the Manor,” is back for the second year in a row.

“What we do is we have the front of the building covered in lights, and as donations come in, the strands get lit one by one,” Barb City Manor associate administrator Anne Cheladyn said.

“The goal is by Dec. 31 to have the entire front of the building lit.”

“Light Up the Manor” started in November with an open house, inviting the community in to ring in the spirit of the holiday season. The campaign continues through Dec. 31.

The goal is to raise money for two funds: one to support low- to moderate-income residents with financial assistance, and another to cover building improvements.

In the past, donations have been used to pay for things such as rental assistance, a new parking lot, roof repairs, Wi-Fi installation, security cameras and more.

New this year, Barb City Manor has extended corporate and business sponsorship opportunities to area companies and organizations interested in helping to kick-start the end-of-year campaign with financial contributions.

In addition, the public is invited to make donations in memory of loved ones.

Cheladyn said she’s been delighted by the community’s generosity.

“Because we had such a great response last year, we said we need to do this every year,” Cheladyn said.

“Every year, we’re hoping that the front yard has more angels and snowmen, and it just keeps getting bigger and bigger.”

Residents who live at Barb City Manor are assessed rent, which goes to cover the building’s day-to-day operations. Other costs generally require fundraising or are paid for using grants.

Shaw Local News Network file photos

Barb City Manor, an independent retirement living community in DeKalb, hopes to spread a bit of cheer for a good cause this holiday season.

Cheladyn said their goal is to ensure that living at Barb City Manor is affordable for residents.

She said residents’ rent doesn’t pay for the big capital projects.

“That does not fall on the backs of our residents,” Cheladyn said.

In 2024, Barb City Manor awarded more than $85,000 to its residents in rental assistance.

Barb City Manor Executive Director Sarah Davis said efforts to pursue capital projects are always ongoing.

“We are working on getting new exterior doors,” Davis said. “We have masonry issues that we need to get repaired, and then we’re also hoping to eventually start redecorating the building, especially our ground floor.”

A goal has been set to raise $60,000 in donations this year, which will go to support both funds.

Cheladyn said the fundraising efforts are going well.

“This is the first year we’ve ever done corporate sponsors,” Cheladyn said. “We had a wonderful response.

We had 20 corporate sponsors and local businesses that pitched in to help us out. And we are just under $25,000,

For every memorial donation, an angel is seen outside Barb City Manor in this undated photo. The display is made possible by Barb City Manor and its annual Light Up The Manor campaign.

and our goal is $60,000.”

There are about 5,000 lights on the front of the building.

As of Dec. 3, Barb City Manor is onethird of the way lit.

Davis said she thinks the sight of the lights helps spread holiday cheer.

“I think they enjoy it,” she said.

“The south side of DeKalb doesn’t have

as much as the rest of the city sometimes. The lights themselves, when you’re coming down First Street, it’s kind of hard to miss it.”

For information or to make a donation, visit barbcitymanor.org. Donors also can be dropped off or mailed to Barb City Manor, 680 Haish Blvd., DeKalb.

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Barb City Manor to ‘Light Up The Manor’ this holiday season 17

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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560-acre data center OK’d by DeKalb council City Council approves massive south side tech project in series of votes

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com After a crowded public hearing that lasted 2½ hours where dozens of residents spoke, the DeKalb City Council unanimously approved a massive 560acre data center by Edged, a subsidiary of Endeavour Energy.

The series of votes – minus an absent Ward 3 Alderman Tracy Smith – came less than a month after the project was made public.

About 30 residents spoke on the project before the vote. Some expressed support for the data center’s plans, pointing to significant tax revenue, job creation and a chance for DeKalb to be part of an ever-evolving technology industry.

DeKalb resident Mike Carpenter, who has worked as a real estate professional for over 30 years, said he is all for the data center.

“We have a phenomenal opportunity here to really increase our industrial tax base, which should segue into stabilized property taxes or even reduced property taxes,” Carpenter said. “Lower property taxes equate to higher property values. So, I urge the council’s support on this great project.”

Melissa Amedeo, executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation, said Project Vector represents a transformative investment to the area.

“If we use Meta as a guide, which paid almost $31.5 million in taxes in 2024 alone, it’s safe to say that Project Vector will generate tens of millions of dollars that will directly support schools, transportation networks, public safety and other quality of life initiatives,” she said.

Amedeo also serves as administrator of the DeKalb County Enterprise Zone.

An enterprise zone is a geographical area in which businesses may receive tax benefits and other incentives to help spur new economic growth.

An expansion of the DeKalb County Enterprise Zone was previously granted

by DeKalb city leaders with unanimous support in both March 2024 and September 2025, city documents show.

City staff said the data center quali-

Megann Horstead

Dozens crowd into the audience for a packed DeKalb City Council meeting Dec. 8 at the DeKalb Public Library. After an almost 2½-hour public hearing, the City Council unanimously approved the data center in a series of votes. fies for participation in the High Impact Project Interstate Competition Market property tax abatement made possible by the county’s enterprise zone.

Other savings available to project leaders will include the state-level Enterprise Zone and an electricity tax incentive from the city, records show.

Others, including residents who live near the south side site, asked the Council to delay what some criticized as a rushed vote. Some concerns voiced included environmental impact, wildlife impact, noise pollution and questions about the technology Endeavour plans to use for the center.

Kathy Stelford, founder and president of Oaken Acres Wildlife Center, said she believed it was important to speak out about wildlife impact.

She turned and pointed to a photograph of a bald eagle in front of a packed meeting of the City Council.

“I know I can’t change progress,” Stelford said. “It sounds like you guys are good guys and stuff. But I’ve always wanted to at least be a voice for wildlife and tell you that these are your neighbors, too.”

DeKalb resident Melissa Deball questioned the city’s long-range plan-

ning efforts.

“The joke is that in DeKalb, we are kids of the corn,” Deball said. “And granted, I know that we are trying to be biodiverse in everything, but the more you take down the environment and the more you take down things like that, the more it’s going to impact it.”

The data center campus would be built just south of Meta’s DeKalb Data Center, with fewer buildings but more land. Edged would have four data center campus buildings and two electrical substations, on about 560 acres of land on both east and west sides of Illinois State Route 23, north of Keslinger Road and west of Crego Road, records show.

Mayor Cohen Barnes said he believed the city has done its research and due diligence on the build.

“We already have Meta. We have a data center,” Barnes said. “I heard some of these concerns early on with that project. And now look at what Meta has brought to the community – the impact and the good stewardship that they brought to our community. I think they’re a perfect example to show that this isn’t new to us. We’ve already done exactly this.”

Jerry Krusinski of ChicagoWest

Business Center, which owns most of the land for the site, said developers had conducted studies on traffic impact, noise and emissions. Documents released by the city show plans to include landscaping and other mitigating factors in the build meant to lessen noise and impact on nearby residential areas.

“Clearly we’ve been studying this site and this project for a long time,” Krusinski said. “It does reinforce that we’ve not taken this lightly.”

One idea raised by a community member last week about establishing a microforest on site was received favorably by project leaders.

A microforest is defined as the concept of promoting dense tree planting to enhance urban ecology and habitat.

Krusinski expressed a commitment to the community on behalf of project leaders.

“The one thing that we have built that is not bricks and mortar, we’ve built partnerships and relationships with so many people here,” Krusinski said. “We’re very proud of that.”

The project has received backing

See DATA CENTER, page 20

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• DATA CENTER

Continued from page 18

all in it for the money,’ ” Larson said.

“We’re all in it to make money. That is how we live.”

Michelle McGill has lived in South Pointe Greens for more than 12 years.

She said she and her family and neighbors worry that even with steps intended to mitigate sound from the data center’s 24/7 server operators, she still will hear it. She asked the Council to delay the vote.

“It was pointed out last week that property values will not be negatively affected by this, but I’m just kind of unable to wrap my head around that one,” McGill said. “In the meantime, residents will have endured the sights and sounds of construction for years.”

William Bohne, president of Jacob & Hefner Associates, tried to address concerns about the potential for noise.

He said that from berms to soundwall installation, there is a host of solutions that can be employed to mitigate noise.

“The turbo cells do make noise,” Bohne said. “The HVAC systems do make noise. Traffic does make noise.

So, what we’ve done here is part of it is the site planning. We’re able to set these buildings as far back as we can from the adjacent roadways and some of the adjacent residents with a site plan, as we talked about in the last meeting.”

Fifth Ward Alderman Andre Powell said he believes project leaders have done their best to help appease community concerns.

“I think you guys did your best to accommodate what runs people off with data centers, which is water and electric,” Powell said. “For that reason, I support it.”

from several entities, including DeKalb School District 428, DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, DeKalb Park District, DeKalb Public Library, Kishwaukee College, Northern Illinois University and the Kishwaukee Water Reclamation District.

Adding another organization to the list of supporters publicly was Afton Township Supervisor Randy Bourdages. He urged the council to support the data center.

“This is a project you must say yes to,” Bourdages said. “We should all be celebrating.”

Fourth Ward Alderman Justin Carlson downplayed the significance of potential environmental impacts.

“Things are in the ground right now that hurt the environment,” Carlson said. “For one data center? I’d have done it six days and on Sunday. And that’s why I look at data centers in a different way.”

City Manager Bill Nicklas said the data center is anticipated to generate a significant amount in property taxes each year.

“I can tell you right now ... the roughly 12 different small and some larger parcels that are involved here that are currently identified in the county tax records generated in 2024, $40,700 in property tax,” Nicklas said.

“First year of any assessment would obviously be a hundred-fold more than that.”

Second Ward Alderwoman Barb Larson touted the growth in economic development that the data center could yield for the city.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

SUDOKU AND SUPER CROSSWORD ANSWERS ON PAGE 2

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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STATE OF ILLINOIS ss.

COUNTY OF DEKALB In the Circuit Court of DeKalb County.

In the Matter of the estate of Jerry Osland, decedent.

Adoption No. 2025PR16 NOTICE IS GIVEN of the death of the within named.

Letters of Office have been (6397) issued as set forthherein to the appropriate Executors, whose attorney is as shown: Decedent: Jerry Osland of Sandwich, Illinois Date of Death: February 2, 2025 Type of Letters Issued: Letters Testamentary Issued to: Gary Fatland, Administrator Attorney for Estate: Attorney William L. Hotopp Publisher's Notice: All real estate 222advertising E. Church Street in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Sandwich, Illinois 60548 Act which makes it illegal to advertise "any Claims against the Estate preference, limitation or discrimination may bebased filed in the office on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, of the familial Clerk of the Circuit status or national origin, or anCourt intention, to of DeKalb County, make any such preference, limitation of discrimination."

DeKalb County Courthouse, Familial status includes childrenSycamore, under the age of 18orliving Illinois, with with parents or legal custodians, women the pregnant Administrator or and both people securing custody of children undersix18.(6) Thismonths newspaper within from will not knowingly accept anythe advertising real estateof date offor issuance which is in violation of the law.

Our of readers are hereby Letters the date of the informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper first publication of this Noare available on an equal opportunity basis. tice, whichever is later. Any To complain of discrimination call HUDnot 1-800-669-9777 claim filed within that Hearing impaired numberperiod is 1-800-927-9275 is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered within ten (10) days after it has been filed. Letters of the Office were issued on March 28, 2025.

Dated: December 1, 2025 Lori Grubbs, Clerk.

Attorney William L. Hotopp 222 E. Church Street PUBLIC NOTICE Sandwich, Illinois 60548 STATE OF ILLINOIS 815-786-7770 ss.

(Published in The Midweek COUNTY OF DEKALB Dec. 10, 17, 24, 2025) In the Circuit Court of 2291190 DeKalb County.

In the Matter of the estate of Jerry Osland, decedent.

Adoption No. 2025PR16 NOTICE IS GIVEN of the death of the within named.

Letters of Office have been issued as set forthherein to the appropriate Executors, whose attorney is as shown: Decedent: Jerry Osland of Sandwich, Illinois Date of Death: February 2, 2025 Type of Letters Issued: Letters Testamentary Issued to: Gary Fatland, Administrator Attorney for Estate: Attorney William L. Hotopp 222 E. Church Street Sandwich, Illinois 60548 Claims against the Estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of DeKalb County, DeKalb County Courthouse, Sycamore, Illinois, or with the Administrator or both within six (6) months from the date of issuance of Letters of the date of the first publication of this Notice, whichever is later. Any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered within ten (10) days after it has been filed. Letters of the Office were issued on March 28, 2025.

Dated: December 1, 2025 Lori Grubbs, Clerk.

Attorney William L. Hotopp 222 E. Church Street Sandwich, Illinois 60548 815-786-7770 (Published in The Midweek Dec. 10, 17, 24, 2025) 2291190

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, December 17, 2025 MIDWEEK

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