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Sycamore escape room business up for sale
Owners want to ‘pass the torch’ to interested buyer
By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com
A Sycamore business known for puzzling its patrons for fun is going on the market but with no plans to close, the family behind the operation announced recently.
Syco Escape Rooms, 1170 DeKalb Ave., owned by the Bunge family, opened in 2020.
In a Jan. 17 post to the company’s social media, the family announced that life has gotten busy and they’d like to keep the business going but turn it over to a
new owner.
“Over the past couple of years though, each of our careers or family have pulled us away and required more of our respective time and focus. We’re no longer in college, kidless, or even all in the same state anymore,” according to the post.
“As a result, we haven’t been able to give the business the attention it needs and deserves. After a lot of thought and family discussions, we’ve decided that it may be time to pass the torch and sell the business to someone who can take the Escape Room forward.”
Anyone interested in investing in the business should contact Sycoescaperooms@gmail.com.
The Bunge family called the business a “passion project” that allowed them to share their hobby with the community.
“Something that we poured creativity, energy, and heart into [with a little blood, sweat, and tears sprinkled in as well],” according to the post. “It has brought us so much joy, and we’re incredibly proud of what it has become.”
With themes like “Prison Break,” “Quest for the Thrown” and “Operation: Rogue Agent,” the recreational rooms set up challenges, about an hour long, where participants had to find clues to traverse the room and get it back open. The family said they have worked on the final room, “Pirate’s Plunder” and hope it’s as popular as seasonal offerings “Skoll Manor” and “Christmas Caper.”
“There is over $100,000 invested in the rooms as they currently exist,” according to the announcement, “but we will consider all serious offers!”
FNBO downsizes, closes administration offices
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
FNBO has downsized its footprint in downtown DeKalb and is looking to sell the administration offices in the building immediately next to its 141 W. Lincoln Highway branch.
The site, at 121 W. Lincoln Highway, has had its signage removed from the building.
The adjacent bank building and ATM remain open for customers.
Sally Christensen, managing director of communication, public relations and brand reputation management for
PUZZLE ANSWERS
puzzlesonpage13
FNBO, said staff have been transitioning out of the building over the past six months.
The site first went up for sale about three months ago.
Christensen said the building used to serve as an administration space, but it has been needed less and less since the COVID-19 pandemic.
She emphasized that closing the facility has not affected staffing or business operations at FNBO.
The building also briefly held offices for the Daily Chronicle and MidWeek office for Shaw Local News Network from October 2021 to August 2024.
ON THE COVER
DeKalb Park District building at Hopkins Park in DeKalb, on May 13, 2021. The Park District recently recieved a grant to expand Prarie Park 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.
Mark Black file photo
Megann Horstead
The site of FNBO’s former administration offices is seen Jan. 15 at 121 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb.
Kishwaukee Valley Art Leage events set for February
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
A Sycamore art gallery will feature student work next month.
The Kishwaukee Valley Art League will host several events and programs in February at the Gallery on State, 322 W. State St., Sycamore.
The league’s next general meeting is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 5 at the gallery. KVAL members will present art pieces created for the “Secret Subject” challenge. The members created artwork featuring challenge cards with secret words.
The Gallery on State will host an exhibition featuring Sycamore High School student artists on Feb. 9. The art pieces also will be displayed in the gallery’s east window through February.
The gallery also will host the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce’s Inner Circle Galentine’s Soiree from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 12. The event is open to Chamber members. To RSVP, email office@sycamorechamber.com.
The league will host a Valentine’s Day-themed Paint and Sip Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 13 at the gallery. Attendees can create Valentine’s Day art pieces. Art supplies will be provided. Participants also can bring
their own beverages. The event will be led by artist Sharon Saponari. Registration is required and due Feb. 11. To register, visit kval-nfp.org or visit the gallery.
KVAL’s Second Saturday Art Workshop is set from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 14 at the Gallery on State.
The league recently concluded its annual Art of Giving program. KVAL collected art supplies and monetary donations to donate to local charities. The donations were presented to the DeKalb Rehab and Nursing Center, Opportunity House, Family Service Agency, Barb City Manor and Safe Passage.
The gallery recently launched a new art rotation featuring 2D and 3D artwork, including sculptures, photography, paintings and mixed-media installations. The art pieces are available to buy and will remain on display.
Applications are available for the league’s 55th annual Northern Illinois Art Show. The show will be held June 6 and 7 on the front lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse, 133 W. State St., Sycamore. The art show features up to 70 artisans exhibiting various fine arts and crafts. The application deadline will be March 16. To apply, visit kval-nfp.org or the Gallery on State.
Photo provided by the Kishwaukee Valley Art League
The Kishwaukee Valley Art League’s Art of Giving donation table
Rooted For Good lists February Grow Mobile food pantry dates
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Rooted For Good released a list of February locations for Grow Mobile, a mobile food pantry that offers free food and household items to all who visit, with no requirements necessary.
Rooted For Good works to ensure the well-being of residents, staff and volunteers.
Organizers ask that people practice good hand hygiene and stay home if they are ill.
To receive Grow Mobile alerts, text FreeGroceries to 844-727-2012.
Grow Mobile dates in February are:
• 3:30 to 5 p.m. Feb. 3 at the Malta Historical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta
• 4 to 5 p.m. Feb. 4 at Hinckley First
United Methodist Church, 801 N. Sycamore St., Hinckley
• 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 8 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
• 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 10 at the Cortland Lions Club Shelter, 70 S. Llanos St., Cortland
• 11 a.m. to noon Feb. 12 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
• 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 17 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
• 3:30 to 5 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Malta Historical and Genealogical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta
• 4 to 6 p.m. Feb. 24 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 340 W. Arnold Road, Sandwich
• 11 a.m. to noon Feb. 26 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Puzzle race program set for Jan. 29 in DeKalb
The DeKalb Public Library will offer a program for residents to complete in a puzzle race.
The free program will begin at 7 p.m. Jan. 29 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. Teams of two to three people can race to complete a 300-piece jigsaw puzzle. A puzzle prize will be awarded to the first-, second- and third-place winners. Attendees also will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $25 Barb City Bagels gift card.
The teams must include one adult. Check-in begins at 6:50 p.m. Registration is required. To register, visit dkpl. org.
For information, email susang@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2114.
Magician
James Ember to perform Jan. 31 in DeKalb
The DeKalb Public Library will host a magic show for community members ages 5 and older featuring magician James Ember.
The free magic show will begin at 1 p.m. Jan. 31 in the library’s lower-level
Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Ember will perform his interactive comedy magic show.
He has performed at weddings, corporate events, school programs, on the street and on stages. No registration is required.
For information, email chelsear@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1700.
Jane Austen tribute presentation set for Jan. 28 in DeKalb
Community members will be able to learn more about author Jane Austen during a tribute presentation at the DeKalb Public Library.
The free presentation will begin at 6 p.m. Jan. 28 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Participants can learn about Austen’s personal life through her letters, novels and juvenilia.
The presentation also will be followed by photo opportunities and a question-and-answer session. No registration is required.
For information, email susang@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2114. – Shaw Local News Network
Monday Feb 9th to Thursday Feb 12th
$400K in funding awarded to DeKalb Park District
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
Prairie Park in DeKalb is one step closer to being revamped.
The DeKalb Park District has netted $400,000 in Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant funding from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to help make it happen.
“I am very happy to announce that the district was awarded the OSLAD grant for Prairie Park,” said Mat Emken, the district’s superintendent of parks and development.
Emken first made the announcement during the DeKalb park board’s first regular meeting of the new year.
The grant funding is intended to help the district expand the recreational opportunities at Prairie Park.
Current amenities at Prairie Park include a nine-hole disc golf course, some picnic tables and a walking trail.
Once it’s completed, the park will feature nine additional holes on the disc golf course and a new 0.3-mile paved
loop to the west side of the park, according to a news release. Other improvements will include a fishing outcrop, a river overlook, a new picnic shelter, a gaming area near the intersection of Clifford Drive and Glidden Avenue, and woodland understory restoration to about 7 acres of timber.
“The award for Prairie Park is another successful collaboration between the residents of DeKalb, the DeKalb Park District and Upland Design, which has brought in over $1.9 million in grant funding for park improvements in the last five years,” Emken said in the release.
The district intends to contribute an additional $400,000 toward project costs to fulfill a cost-sharing arrangement with the state.
“We are very excited to enhance Prairie Park with this plan, which will provide more disc golf holes and also open up a large section of the property that many people may not know about,” park board President David Castro said in the release.
DeKalb School District meets, reviews 5-year project plan
District outlines capital projects to enhance aging school facilities
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
The DeKalb School District 428 board took a close look at its five-year project plan meant to address facility improvements.
It is the product of work completed annually by architects and engineers, as well as district staff, identifying projects that may be necessary in the next five years.
Tammy Carson, the district’s director of facility and safety operations, said that as buildings have aged, the district has had a tendency to push off the more cosmetic improvements.
“If it’s not a safety factor, we haven’t been one to spend money toward flooring,” Carson said.
“Now that we have completed a lot of the fundamental projects – roofs, HVAC, safety, life-safety type of things – we are able to shift our focus and look at more things, like our summer work.”
The plan encompasses a variety of
capital improvement projects, varying based on size, age, and quantity of
buildings in the district.
Some of the items proposed include parking lot sealcoating and striping, fogged window replacements, and card access replacements.
The proposed list isn’t all encompassing and is not necessarily prioritized in order of which the district may proceed.
The plan does not account for the costs needed to relocate the district’s Early Learning Development Center out of Huntley Middle School or potential renovations related to reconfiguring grade levels.
Board member Kristin Bailey asked how officials should read into the district’s five-year project plan, given that Carson’s retirement is fast approaching.
In response, Carson said some guidance is offered as to how to address the district’s facility needs going forward.
Carson is expected to wrap up her time with the district on Oct. 26 after more than a decade of service.
“It’s a year-by-year,” Carson said. “It’s based on funding, as conversations happen with our mayor regards to budget.”
Megann Horstead file photo
Prairie Park is seen July 14, 2025, at 401 Clifford Drive in DeKalb.
Megann Horstead
DeKalb School District 428’s director of facility safety operations Tammy Carson briefs the school board during its Jan. 13 meeting about its five-year project plan.
DEKALB BARBS VS. SYCAMORE SPARTANS
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30 NIU CONVOCATION CENTER
• AMERICAN REALTY
• Associates In Counseling
• Banner Up Signs
• Bethany Animal Hospital
GIRLS VARSITY | 6:00 PM BOYS VARSITY | 8:00 PM
Advance tickets can be purchased for $8 at fnbochallenge.org . Tickets purchased on 1/30/26 online or at the Convocation Center will be $10.
High School Students must have their school I.D. to enter. All other students must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
• 1236
• Ecowater Systems
• ENCAP, Inc.
• Blackhawk Moving & Storage
• Bob Armstrong - Meridian Print
• Brad Manning Ford, Inc.
• BROWN LAW GROUP
• Century 21 Circle
• Christ Community Church
• Clean USA Water Mold & Fire
• Cronauer Law
• Crum-Halsted | ONEDIGITAL
• Curran Contracting Company
• DCTA - DeKalb Classroom Teachers Association
• DeKalb Chamber of Commerce
• DeKalb Firefighters Local
• Eric Larsen, Entrepreneurial Operating System
• FNBO
• Giordano's of Sycamore/DeKalb
• GRAY HUNTER STENN LLP
• Heartland Bank and Trust Company
• Hometown Realty Group
• Hy-Vee
• Joanna Gautcher Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group
• Kishwaukee College
• Kishwaukee Family YMCA
• Klein, Stoddard, Buck & Lewis, LLC
• Kunes Auto Group
• Larson & Darby Group
• Lehan's
• Liz Bishop for State Representative
• Lynn and Chuck Shepard
• Mason Properties
• Medical Outsourcing Solutions, Inc.
• MKFM Law
• NECA - IBEW 364 Power Connection
• Northern Rehab Physical Therapy Specialists
• Northwestern Medicine Orthopaedics
• OLT Marketing
• Oncken Family
• One Barb Athletic Foundation
• Oral and Maxillo Facial Surgeons for Northern Illinois
• Pardridge Insurance Inc.
• Pest Control Consultants
• Pizza Pro's
• Planetree Wealth Advisors of Raymond James
• Prairie View Animal Hospital
• Provident Direct Mailing & Printing Services
• Raising Cane's
• Ringland Johnson Construction
• Shaw Media
• Shepard Construction, LLC
• Sisler's Ice
• SOFT WATER CITY, INC.
• State Representative Jeff Keicher
• Steve & TJ Irving
• Stran's Garden Center & Landscaping
• Swedberg Electric
• Sycamore Chamber of
• Commerce
• Sycamore Family Sports Center
• Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry
• Sycamore Park District
• Sycamore Sports Booster Club
• The Armoloy Corporation
• The DeKalb Confectionary
• The Doherty Law Firm, LLC
• The Suter Company
• Toyota of DeKalb
• Visual Image Photography (VIP)
LOOKING BACK
1926 – 100 YEARS AGO
Through a poster that has been designed by a member of the advertising department of the Wurlitzer Grand Piano company of DeKalb, the company has received much praise from all sections of the state. The poster urges that people eat more corn, and contains the words “Let’s Eat More Corn,” attractively printed in yellow and black. The small posters were sent to every bank and several of the larger newspapers in the state.
Mr. Radio Owner, how often have you wished for a complete radio log book that has every important American broadcast station listed with the station’s call letters, meter length, location and owners and a roomy space to keep the dial readings of your own set? Beginning today The Chronicle is printing a complete log of broadcasting stations in the United States.
According to information given out today, a one-story building will be erected early this year on the former Beaublen property, at Locust and North First streets. The building it is stated will be erected by A. R. Wollenweber of Waterman, who recently purchased the property. According to the information received in DeKalb, the building which will be erected on the south eastern corner of the intersection, will be one story high, but so built that additional stories may be erected. Mr. Wollenweber is in the automobile business.
Three electric wires leading to the courthouse from a pole on Maple Street caused considerable excitement around the courthouse last night during the high wind. Ross Millett of the sheriff’s office was busy over his books last night when all of a sudden there was a flash and the lights in the building were twice as bright as usual, and then went out. Millett said today he did not know what was happening and on investigation this morning discovered the insulation burned on two of the wires.
Many automobile owners of Sycamore experienced some genuine trouble late last night and this forenoon when the cold weather stiffened the oil and machines could not be started except at the end of a
tow rope. The second fire trick also was frozen up during the morning hours but is chanced that Butzow Brothers wrecking crane was handy and no time was lost in getting the extra equipment to the fire.
1951 – 75 YEARS AGO
Construction of the new city water supply well at Lucinda and Russell Road now is entering the final stages. The well should be ready for test pumping by mid-February. The well, which is to be about 1,300 feet deep, has passed the 1,000-foot mark at this time and will probably be ready for test pumping in three or four weeks. Work also is progressing on the foundation for the elevated tank which will be located on East Oak Street. The foundation will consist of 305 cubic yards of concrete.
Sycamore board of education officials Friday afternoon removed another obstacle from the path of the city’s new grade school buildings by completing the purchase of a site for the southeast school. With the purchase of the south-east campus, made up of 26.7 acres of land at the south end of Locust Street and east of the Bishop McLaren Foundation, the board now has the title to both sites for the new schools.
necessary ingredients; snow and desire.
The words for the day throughout DeKalb County nine years ago today were “Stay home.” Schools, offices, factories and roads all were closed over much of the area, as the worst storm to hit Northern Illinois in 30 years left more than 16 inches of ice and snow. Winds, gusting up to 35 miles per hour, raced through DeKalb and blew snow into previously cleared streets.
Skiing buffs, or those who would like to be, were able to learn the basics of cross-country skiing during a free clinic at Hopkins Park. The DeKalb Park District, in cooperation with the Ski Rack, Skis and Bicycles, conducted the program.
2001 – 25 YEARS AGO
5:40 p.m. Thursday afternoon and after threatening and robbing her, left her bound on a bed. Although tied securely with a clothes line, Mrs. H. was able to roll from the bed and slide herself down the steps and reach a phone to notify police shortly after 6 o’clock. Mrs. H. was alone in the home at the time; four roomers having left five minutes earlier to go to town for supper. She heard a knock on the door and when she opened the door, two masked men pushed their way into the house.
Shortly before 5 o’clock Thursday afternoon a new trailer home being pulled by a transport truck was struck and damaged by a switch engine on the Spring Valley crossing on East Lincoln Highway. Although the switchman was guarding the crossing and the wig-way lights were operating the driver of the transport was unable to halt in time due to the slippery pavement and decided to speed up. The switch engine, which was backing up and heading north at the time, struck the rear of the trailer.
1976 – 50 YEARS AGO
Sycamore’s Statue of Liberty snow sculpture might have inspired two young men to build their own snow sculpture at St. Mary’s Elementary School. The boys have a long way to go to top the 25-foot Sycamore sculpture, but they have the
Every year, there are reports of people falling through ice and into the frigid water below. In such cases, prompt rescue can mean the difference between life and death. Shabbona firefighters have been concerned. They cover the Shabbona Lake area, which attracts hundreds of ice fishers. There has never been a case of an ice fisher falling into the water at Shabbona Lake, said Shabbona Deputy Fire Chief Frank Ottenheime.
The drive is longer, the halls are more crowded and the attitude is different, but it appears former Malta High School students are surviving in their new environment at DeKalb High School. More than 50 students are in their second semester of the transition that took them from what was described by some as a “family” atmosphere in Malta to the bigger, and sometimes less personal, DeKalb High School.
Only a handful of people were on hand to see the movies being shown at Campus Cinemas on Thursday night, giving testimony to the reason that establishment will be closing its doors Sunday.
Although city and company officials refuse to reveal much about the kinds of stores likely to appear along the north end of Sycamore Road in the coming months, there’s no question that plenty of new retail activity is afoot.
–CompiledbySueBreese
Two masked men entered the home of Mrs. Mollie H. in DeKalb about
Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives State Street in Sycamore looking north from Elmore Oil Company, 1941.
Sycamore D-427 welcomes new board member
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
Nate Russell has been selected to fill a vacant position on the Sycamore School District 427 Board.
Russell, who with his wife has two children attending Sycamore schools, was sworn in to his new role in public office during a special Sycamore school board meeting in the district’s administration building.
That meeting included the board’s unanimous 6-0 approval of Russell’s appointment to the board and an executive session regarding the compensation of at least one employee.
However, nothing was announced to the public when the meeting returned to open session before being promptly adjourned.
Russell’s appointment comes less than two months after former board member Heather Tomlinson stepped down from the position in order to move to Shabbona, bringing her closer to family.
Despite moving from Chesapeake, Virginia, to DeKalb County in 2005, Rus-
Russell said he’s excited for the opportunity to serve on the Sycamore school board.
“I am passionate about helping create an environment where students are able to thrive academically, socially and emotionally, and where educators feel valued and empowered,” Russell said in the release.
Sycamore school board members don’t get paid for their time and effort. Russell, like the other board members, agreed to take on the responsibilities of being a school board member for free while still working his regular job as a senior PTC operations engineer on the positive train control management team for Metra.
He said that his professional experience has strengthened his problem-solving skills and abilities to work with a team and make “thoughtful decisions under pressure.”
sell isn’t a stranger to the Sycamore community. He has served as a board member and coaching coordinator for the Sycamore youth football and cheer orga-
nization for the past five years, according to a Sycamore schools news release. He also has served as the vice president of the South Prairie Elementary PTO.
“I believe that actions speak louder than words, and I intend to show my dedication through consistent, meaningful action on behalf of students, families and educators,” Russell said in the release.
Just Jane: A Visit with Jane Austen
Januar y 28 @ 6:00
Photo provided Sycamore Community School District 427 Nate Russell was appointed to fill a vacant position on the Sycamore Community School District 427 board during a special meeting of the school board.
Social workers responding to 911 crisis calls with DeKalb police reduce ER rates by 15%, data shows
DeKalb city leaders extend police-social worker agreement
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
A city of DeKalb program that pairs social workers with police officers during 911 crisis calls is reducing the prevalence of those calls ending up with someone in the hospital emergency department, data shows.
The DeKalb Police Department has extended its existing partnership with social workers from the Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center to offer more individualized crisis response.
The ongoing program is designed to help people get support from mental health providers, addiction recovery services, housing programs, area hospitals and other community organizations close to home when police intervention may not be needed following an incident.
The City Council’s recent decision helps provide funding to pay social workers to co-respond to incidents with police officers when deemed appropriate. An amendment to the agreement allows the partnership to continue and allocates $194,183 to make it happen, city documents show.
Sabrina Nicholson, behavioral health services director for the Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center, said the program is all about linking people to the help they need most in the moment.
“Our program has social workers who will follow them along for roughly 30 days or so,” Nicholson said. “So, they will be in frequent contact with them following the incident. Whether it’s a co-response, whether they’re on scene at the time of the event, or it’s a referral after the fact from the [police department] officers, our social workers will respond either by phone or in person and work with that individual to identify the root cause of what led to that crisis or that 911 call to try and help them link to services.”
Nicholson said the program’s significance to the community is clear.
“It really just highlights the contin-
ued need for the social work program for the city of DeKalb,” Nicholson said. “It’s very evident ... just how much need there continues to be in the city of DeKalb. This [police department] social work program was born here at [the DeKalb Police Department]. And then, it has branched out to other police departments.”
A specialized pilot program – building on the partnerships started in 2018 –took place this past summer, calling for a co-response between a dedicated police officer and a social worker. They’re meant to respond to incidents together.
When people are reluctant to seek out support, this is where the intervention of police officers, in tandem with social workers, comes into play.
Officials said the pilot program proved to be effective.
According to data from last summer’s pilot program, there’s been a 15% reduc-
tion in the number of people being transported to an emergency department when a social worker responds with police. That’s compared with 37% of the time following incidents when an officer responded alone and a social worker followed up after the fact, data shows.
Mayor Cohen Barnes commended the work of the city’s police in partnership with social workers from Northwestern Medicine.
“You all have filled a great gap that was out there,” Barnes said.
Nicholson pointed to the importance of the training that police officers and social workers receive to prepare them to respond to calls together.
“Our [police department] social workers are trained in motivational interviewing so that we can meet individuals where they’re at,” she said. “If someone’s not ready to receive care, we’re going to work alongside them to
try and help them get to that point where they may be open or willing.”
The city’s goal is to employ three fulltime social workers, one for each shift, officials said. Currently, the program relies on one social worker and a social work team lead who are both embedded in the police department.
City Manager Bill Nicklas touted the partnership and what it has achieved so far.
The program first got its start in 2018 with the support of aid provided by the U.S. Department of Justice, city documents show.
“It’s been a very effective program,” Nicklas said. “There are some things we still haven’t realized with it, and we’d like to.”
Nicholson gave thanks to the city for its support of the program.
“We could not be more grateful for that support,” she said.
Photo provided by Northwestern Medicine
Sabrina Nicholson, behavioral health services director for Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center, said a partnership program with the DeKalb Police Department is all about linking people to the help they need most in the moment.
Somonauk library events set for February
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Somonauk Public Library, 700 E. La Salle St., will host several programs and events in February.
The events schedule includes:
• Tot Tales: 11 a.m. Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25. Participants will be introduced to books, songs, hand motions and rhymes. The program is open to children ages newborn to 3. Registration is required.
• Stories and Crafts: 3:30 p.m. Feb 10 and 11 a.m. Feb. 19. The program features snacks, crafts, stories and songs. The program is intended for children ages 3 to 6. Registration is required.
• Paws for Reading: 4 to 5 p.m. Feb. 26. Attendees can read for 15 minutes to Fox Valley therapy dogs. The event is open to children in first through fifth grades. Registration is required.
• Winter Reading Logs: Children will be able to submit winter reading logs. The reading logs are due Feb. 27.
• Chapter Club: 6:30 p.m. Feb. 23. Attendees can discuss books and do an activity. Book copies are available at the front desk. The club is open to children ages 6 to 10. Registration is required.
• Tween and Teen Take Home Book Boxes: Feb. 2. The boxes include up to two library books, a treat and book-related goodies. The take-home box theme is “Friendship.” The boxes are intended for teens and tweens ages 10 to 17. Because of limited supplies, registration is required.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
DeKalb library’s college planning workshop series begins Feb. 3
High school students and their parents and guardians can learn about the college process during a workshop series offered by the DeKalb Public Library.
The free workshops will begin at 6 p.m. Feb. 3, Feb. 17 and March 3 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Attendees can learn about services provided by the Illinois Student Assis -
• Valentine’s Day Snack Boards for Tweens and Teens: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12. Participants will be able to create a Valentine’s Day snack board. Because of limited space, registration is required. To register, call 815-4982440.
• Craft Night for Tweens and Teens: Friendship Bracelets: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23. Attendees can make friendship bracelets. Materials will be provided. Registration is required. To register, call 815-498-2440.
• Teen Blind Date with a Book: Runs through February. Participants will be able to select a wrapped book to check out and read. The books can be returned and rated for a prize. Books will be available in the Teen Zone. The event is open to teens ages 13 to 17.
• Winter Reading Challenge for Tweens and Teens: Runs through February. Attendees can fill out reading trackers for a prize and opportunity to win a goody basket. Reading trackers are available at the front desk.
• Tech Help with Steve: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Feb. 4 and 19. Participants will be able to receive technology support during a 20-minute session. Registration is required. To register, visit the library.
• Illinois Tollway, a free event at Somonauk Library: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 4. Attendees can receive I-PASS sticker tags for passenger vehicles.
• Cards with Karen: 6 p.m. Feb. 26. Participants will be able to create handmade cards. Registration is required and costs $5. To register, call
tance Commission.
Water and light refreshments will be served.
Because of limited space, the workshop is first-come, first-served. No registration is required.
The workshop series includes: Feb. 3: Introduction to ISAC Services Feb. 17: The Financial Aid Process March 3: All About Scholarships For information, email stevenm@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3400. – Shaw Local News Network
AMUSEMENTS
atio n PLAINTIFF
Vs Jonathan T. Insley a/k/a
Jonathan Insley; et al
DEFENDANTS
legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)
MOTORCYCLES WANTED
All Makes, Cash Paid, Reasonable. Will Pick-Up. 630- 660-0571
No 2025FC000022
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 05/12/2025, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on February 26, 2026 at the hour of 1:00 PM at Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Sycamore IL 60178, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 14-15-181-014
If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
Publis her's Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housin g Act which makes it il legal to advertise "any preference, li mitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handic ap, familial stat us or nati onal origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination."
Familial stat us includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18 This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violat io n of the law. Ou r readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD 1- 800-669-9777 Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
DEKALB COUNT YSYCAMORE, IL LINOIS
U.S. Bank National Associatio n PLAINTIFF Vs Jonathan T. Insley a/k/a
Jonathan Insley; et al DEFENDANTS No 2025FC000022
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 05/12/2025, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on February 26, 2026 at the hour of 1:00 PM at Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Sycamore, IL 60178, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 14-15-181-014
Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 501 East Garfield Street Waterman, IL 60556
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bi d by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Resident ial Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified unds is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxe s, special assessments, or special taxes levi ed agains said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees wi l be required to pay any assessment and legal ees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)
Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 501 East Garfield Street Waterman, IL 60556
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bi d by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Resident ial Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxe s, special assessments, or special taxes levi ed against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and lega fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)
If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and lega fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other indivi duals presently in possession of the subject premises The propert y will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the cond it ion of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Cour file to verify all info rmation.
If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney. Upon paymen in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other indivi duals presently in possession of the subject premises The propert y will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the cond it ion of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all info rmation.
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDAN CE WITH SECTION 15- 1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For information: Examine the court file or cont act Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associ ates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-2501183. I3279902 (Published in The MidWeek, Jan 14, 21, 28, 2026)
Buying? Selling? Renting? Hiring? To place an ad, call 833-584-NEWS MidWeek Classified
PUBLIC NOT ICE Notice of Self Storage Sale Please be advised that KM Storage, located at 706 West Ra il road Street (RT 72), Ki ngston, IL 60145, intends to hold an auction of the goods stored in the following units due to non-payment of rent The sale will be conducted onli ne through www.storageauctions.com, Sunday February 8, 2026 at 10:00 am and ending at 6:00 pm on Thursday, February 12 2026
Unless stated otherwise, the description of the unit/space contents is as follows: Matthew Bolen 631 Stearn Dr Genoa IL 60135 Unit 128
Household goods All property is being stored at the above self storage facility This sale may be withdrawn any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
(Published in The Midweek Jan. 28, Feb 4, 2026) 2301459
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 23RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DEKALB COUNT YSYCAMORE, IL LINOIS
U.S. Bank National Associatio n PLAINTIFF Vs Jonathan T. Insley a/k/a Jonathan Insley; et al DEFENDANTS No 2025FC000022 NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 05/12/2025, the Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on February 26, 2026 at the hour of 1:00 PM at Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Sycamore, IL 60178, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF DEKALB, IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, TO WIT: LOT 110, IN GREEN RI DGE, PHASE II, A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF SECTI ON 15 TOWNSHIP 38 NORTH, RANGE 4, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCI PAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JUNE 1, 2006 AS DO CUM ENT NUMBER 2006009649 IN DEKALB COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PIN 14-15-181-014
Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 501 East Garfield Street Waterman, IL 60556
Sheriff of DeKalb County, Illinois will on February 26 2026 at the hour of 1:00 PM at Public Safety Building, 150 North Main Sycamore, IL 60178, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DeKalb and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF DEKALB, IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, TO WIT: LOT 110, IN GREEN RI DGE, PHASE II, A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF SECTI ON 15, TOWNSHIP 38 NORTH, RANGE 4, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCI PAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JUNE 1, 2006 AS DO CUM ENT NUMBER 2006009649, IN DEKALB COUNTY ILLINOIS. PIN 14-15-181-014
Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 501 East Garfield Street Waterman, IL 60556
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bi d by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Resident ial Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxe s, special assessments, or special taxes levi ed against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure take s place after 1/1/2007 purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessmen and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)
If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.
The Purchaser shal have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other indivi duals presently in possession of the subject premises
take s place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)
If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other indivi duals presently in possession of the subject premises The propert y will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the cond it ion of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all info rmation.
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDAN CE WITH SECTION 15- 1701(C) OF THE LLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For information: Examine the court ile or cont act Plaintiff's attorney: Codilis & Associ ates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-2501183. I3279902
(Published in The MidWeek, Jan 14, 21, 28, 2026)
DON'T NEED IT? SELL IT FAST! MidWeek Clas sified Call 833-584-NEWS
If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act,
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDAN CE WITH SECTION 15- 1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For information: Examine the
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bi d by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Resident ial Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is
The propert y will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the cond it ion of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all info rmation.
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDAN CE
