DC_MidWeek_040826

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2026 • S h awLoc a l .co m

FERTILIZER CRISIS

The war in Iran is causing prices to rise, causing chaos for Illinois farmers / 6

%

INTEREST*

WHEN YOUR HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM BRINGS NOTHING BUT REPAIR BILLS...

SEE US ABOUT NO PAYMENTS, NO INTEREST FINANCING.*

We have the Lennox financing solution that’s perfect for you, so there’s no need to put off your comfort ®

Ask us about our reconditioned & guaranteed appliances for sale SM-CL2312528

847-293-0047

www.assuredapplianceandhvac.com 121 N. Emmett St. | Genoa, IL 60135

$

6995

furnace clean and check Offer expires 4/30/26 Cash or Check Only

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

2 ShawLocal.com 1985 DeKalb Ave. Sycamore, IL 60178 833-584-NEWS Office hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tuesday through Thursday SUBSCRIBER SERVICES 866-979-1053 customer-support@shawmedia.com 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, closed Sunday SUBSCRIPTIONS The MidWeek is delivered free of charge to households throughout DeKalb County every Wednesday. Those who do not wish to receive delivery may contact customer service at 866-979-1053, or subscriptions@shawsuburban.com, to request a delivery stop.

SUBMIT NEWS readit@midweeknews.com CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com LEGAL NOTICES midweeklegals@shawlocal.com RETAIL ADVERTISING lshaw@shawmedia.com OBITUARIES midweekobits@shawlocal.com Market manager Laura Shaw lshaw@shawmedia.com Executive editor M. Eileen Brown ebrown@shawmedia.com Editor Emily Ayers 815-526-4411 eayers@shawmedia.com The Midweek and ShawLocal.com are a division of Shaw Media.

All rights reserved.

Copyright 2026

Late DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil remembered 2 years after on-duty death Musil was killed in March 2024 in a DUI crash; driver serving 14 years

By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com The late DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil is being remembered two years after she was killed in a DUI crash while on duty.

The driver responsible is serving 14 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

The sheriff’s office posted a tribute to Musil, 35, a mother of three who’d served in the U.S. Army National Guard and deployed to Afghanistan from 2008 to 2009.

At the time of her death, she’d been with Christina Musil the sheriff’s office for five years, working in the corrections division and later in patrol.

“We will never forget you,” according to the post. “End of Watch, March 29, 2024.”

Musil was sitting in her squad car along the side of Route 23 south of Perry Road in Waterman about 10:39 p.m.

March 28, 2024, when her car was rearended by a Kenworth commercial truck.

She was pronounced dead at Northwest-

PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzles on page 13

sentenced to 14 years in prison, the maximum sentence. A judge last week denied his motion to reconsider that sentence.

Many loved ones in DeKalb County have found ways since 2024 to pay tribute to Musil’s life and legacy.

Musil was remembered by friends, family and colleagues as a “true community hero.” She’s been celebrated for her love for her children and the compassion and kindness she brought to her job.

Hundreds showed up for her funeral, which was held at Northern Illinois University’s Convocation Center in DeKalb, including law enforcement from across the county and the country.

To mark one year since her death, Musil’s colleagues with the sheriff’s office hosted more than 100 people at a memorial vigil in March 2025.

On May 19, 2025, officials erected a memorial plaque and a first responder memorial tribute at the DeKalb-Sycamore line on Sycamore Road across from Hy-Vee. Some of Musil’s family were Kelsey Rettke present during a dedication ceremony at the memorial, 2675 Sycamore Road.

The DeKalb County First Responder Memorial In June 2025, the DeKalb County along Sycamore Road across from Hy-Vee United women’s soccer team raised funds includes flags and a plaque built for the late DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil, for Musil’s children and local charities that support families who’ve lost loved who was killed while on duty in a DUI crash on ones in the line of duty.

March 29, 2024.

In July 2025, Sheriff Andy Sullivan, ern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital in Musil’s mother and several of her loved DeKalb about midnight March 29. ones and colleagues biked almost In the two years since, the driver, 400 miles across Illinois to raise money for Nathan P. Sweeney, pleaded guilty to the Illinois Concerns of Police Survivors, driving his work truck under the influ- a group that helps families of fallen law ence of drugs that night. In turn, he was enforcement.

ON THE COVER Grant Senesac is seen on his farm. The rising price of fertilizer is causing chaos for farmers across the U.S. as planting season nears.

See story, page 6.

Shaw Local News Network file photo

HOW ARE WE DOING? We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@ shawmedia.com.

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.

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com The Stage Coach Players will open its next production, the comedy play “The Play That Goes Wrong,” April 9.

The play is scheduled to run for two weeks.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” tells the story of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as it puts on a performance of the 1920s murder mystery play “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” The theater company encounters various mishaps even before the curtain opens with the backstage crew making last-minute set adjustments. The show within a show’s director, Chris Bean, introduces the troupe and disasters continue to befall the actors.

The cast features Denny Boynton, Lori Brubaker, Mike Groark, Bri Kness, Mike Mattingly, Bonnie Miller, Korey Miller, Lacey Toigo, Rae Aldrich, Charles Lundsberg and Ash Miller.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” is based on the 2012 play of the same name written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields. The Stage Coach

unique experience. “It’s funny on a cerebral and physical level, and quite frankly, I just love the slapstick nature of a lot of this.”

When asked what drew her to audition and be a part of The Play That Goes Wrong, Bonnie Miller said, “I love doing comedies! There’s nothing better than making an audience laugh out loud,” adding by the end (of this play) there’s hilarious chaos.

“The challenge of a show like this is a lot of the dialogue doesn’t necessarily line up with the actions on stage.” Montavon said in a news release.

Miller said she hopes that audiences have a great time and leave feeling better than when they arrived.

Performances of “The Play That Goes Wrong” will be at 7:30 p.m. April 9 through April 11 and April 17 and 18 at the Stage Coach Theatre, 126 S. Fifth St., Photo provided by the Stage Coach Players DeKalb. Matinee performances also will be held at 2 p.m. April 12 and 19.

Stage Coach Players cast members rehearsing a scene for their upcoming production of “The Tickets cost $17 and $15 for seniors Play That Goes Wrong” and children ages 13 and younger. To production will be directed by Scott Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” in 2024. buy tickets, call 815-758-1940 or visit Montavon, who previously directed the Montavon said the humor in “The stagecoachplayers.com. The Stage Stage Coach production of “One Flew Play That Goes Wrong” is an entirely Coach Theatre box office opens April 5.

ART

NIU.EDU/ART

MUSIC

NIU.EDU/MUSIC April 4 April 6 April 7 April 8 April 9 April 10 April 11

Chamber Ensemble Competition, 1 p.m.

San Jarocho NIU, 6 p.m.

Music of Thailand, 7 p.m.

Music of East Asia, 7 p.m.

NIU Banda and Mariachi, 7 p.m.

Hong Da Chin Dizi Recital, 7 p.m.

World Music Concert, 3 p.m.

THEATRE/DANCE NIU.EDU/THEATRE

Spring Dance Concert O’Connell Theatre Stevens Building 7 p.m. - April 23, 24, 25 2 p.m. - April 24, 25

B.A./B.S. Show March 30 - April 10 Jack Olson Gallery B.F.A. Exhibition April 27 - May 9 Jack Olson Gallery

3 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Performances of ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ begin April 9

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

4

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS Skateboarding physics program set for April 9 in DeKalb

learn how to repair personal books.

The free workshop will begin at 2 p.m.

April 13 in the library’s lower-level The DeKalb Public Library will partner Zimmerman Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. with the NIU STEAM team to hold a Participants can learn how to perform program for teens to learn about skatesimple repairs, assess damage, photocopy boarding physics.

The free program will be held held from 5 missing pages to tip in and archivally test to 6:30 p.m. April 9 at Fargo Indoor Skate and store delicate items. Attendees will be able to bring in a worn book for assessPark, 641 E. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb.

Attendees can learn about skateboarding ment and repairs.

Repair techniques include pencil erasing, physics and participate in a free skate. preventing water damage, book corner Pizza will be served. Parents or legal guardians must sign a waiver form for the reinforcement, torn pages and text alignment, tightening hinges and tipping free skate. A skateboard, helmet and protective pads will be provided. Because in a loose page. Library materials will not be repaired. No registration is required. of limited space, the program is firstFor information, email emilyk@dkpl.org come, first-served. No registration is or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6106. required.

For information, email stevenm@dkpl.

DeKalb church to hold chamber org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3400.

DeKalb library to hold OpenAI program April 12

The DeKalb Public Library will hold a program for teens and adults to learn about the nonprofit research organization OpenAI. The free program will begin at 2 p.m.

April 12 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Participants will be able to discuss OpenAI’s origins, ChatGPT’s development and how the company became a titan in the artificial intelligence industry. No registration is required.

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

Book repair workshop set for April 13 in DeKalb

Teens and adults can attend a beginner workshop at the DeKalb Public Library to

music concert April 12

Westminster Presbyterian Church will host a chamber music concert featuring the Cardinal Ensemble and NIU Dákiti String Quartet.

The free concert will begin at 3 p.m.

April 12 at the church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.

The Cardinal Ensemble, conducted by flutist Ségun Òwèlè, will perform Scottish selections, “Trio in C Major,” arranged by Francesco Geminiani and “Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 12, No. 1, RV 317,” by Antonio Vivaldi, featuring violinist Abe Baker. The NIU Dákiti String Quartet’s performance includes Edvard Grieg’s “String Quartet No.1 in G minor, Op.27” and “Ouverture” from “Orchestral Suite No. 2,” arranged by Johann Bach, featuring Òwèlè. Freewill donations also will be accepted.

– Shaw Local News Network

WATERMAN

GARAGE SALES APRIL 23RD THROUGH APRIL 26TH

INBODEN’S MARKET

Gourmet Meats and Specialty Food Store Locally Produced - Locally Processed

110 6 N . 1s t , D e K a lb

815 -756 - 5 8 52

Hours: Mon–Sat 8am–7pm; Closed Sundays & Major Holidays

Visit us at meatplace.com for our weekend specials.

April 9th - April 11th, 2026

Locally Produced, Locally Processed Veteran-Owned Business

- APRIL MEAL SPECIAL April Thursday Take Out Dinner

SWISS STEAK WITH GRAVY -

MASHED POTATOES, GREEN BEANS & BREAD OR ROLL

$11.99 EACH

Walk-ins Welcome, Phone Orders Appreciated 815-756-5852 • From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

- WEEKLY DEALS Dutch Farms Breaded stuffed Chicken Kievs- ����������������������������������������������������� $1�49/ea� or 4 for $4�99 Original Kiev, Broccoli & Cheese, Cordon Bleu, Chicken Parmesan Nannina Extra Virgin Olive Oil -1 Liter Bottle- Everyday Low Price: ��������������������������������������$6�99/ea� Gourmet Balsamic Vinegars in 5 oz Bottles: Reg� $8�99 ������������������������������������������������������ Sale $6�99/ea� Chocolate, Ruby Red Grapefruit, White Grapefruit Vito & Nick’s Pizza - All Varieties ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$8�99/ea� Any 4-Pack of Pizza Puffs: All Varieties ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$1�00 OFF Amish Country Rolled Butter �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$8�49/lb�

- MEAT Honey Mustard Marinated Boneless Pork Chops ���������������������������������������������������������������������������$3�39/lb� Beef Ground Sirloin 98% lean ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$5�99/lb� Fresh Lamb Patties ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$6�99/lb� Southwest Marinated Chicken Breast �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$3�77/lb�

- SEAFOOD Canadian Walleye Fillets ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� $12�99/lb�

- DELI Eckrich Summer Sausage �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$5�99/lb� Southwestern Pasta Salad �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$4�99/lb� Smoked Turkey �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$5�99/lb� Seven Grain Salad ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$4�99/lb� Colby (Chunks Only) ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$3�99/lb�

- PRODUCE Avocados ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 79¢/ea� Celery �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$1�25/ea� Cucumber ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 99¢/ea� Iceberg Lettuce ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$1�45/ea� Peanuts ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$3�99/lb�

- BAKERY Lemon Burst Square ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$3�99/ea� Thumbprint Cookies �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3/$1�00

- WINE Lieu Dit Chenin Blanc��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� $24�99/ea� Chop Shop Cabernet Sauvignon ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� $16�99/ea� Pas de Problemo Pinot Noir �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� $15�99/ea� Enjoy 10% savings on wine purchases every Wednesday/Wine Tastings 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month! 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

State Rep. Keicher accepting summer internship applications SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com State Rep. Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore, is accepting applications for a paid summer internship for high school and college students to receive state legislative work experience.

The internship runs from June 1 through Aug. 15 at Keicher’s district office, 158 W. State St., Suite C, Sycamore, Hampshire satellite office, 115 W. Oak Knoll Drive, and other areas in the 70th House District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Kane and McHenry counties.

The internship’s responsibilities include engaging with civic organizations, local nonprofits and community outreaches; researching issues and assisting with drafting bills; con-

stituent services and participating in events on behalf of Keicher.

Interns will be paid $17.50 an hour.

Applicants must be a junior or senior high Jeff Keicher school student, college student or recent graduate with a current valid driver’s license and vehicle access.

The applicants also must have the ability to work flexible hours and state government interest. Applications are due May 15.

To apply, email keicher@ilhousegop.org.

For information, visit RepKeicher. com, call 815-748-3494 or email keicher@ilhousegop.org.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS Romance Book Club to meet April 13 in DeKalb

The DeKalb Public Library will hold a meeting of its Romance Book Club for adults to discuss romance novels.

The free club will meet at 7 p.m. April 13 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. Participants will discuss “Done and Dusted”

by Lyla Sage. Book copies are available in adult services. No registration is required.

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

Liverpool Legends to perform April 10 in DeKalb

The Beatles tribute band the Liverpool Legends will perform a “The Complete Beatles Experience” concert for residents.

The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. April 10 at the Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St., DeKalb.

The Liverpool Legends features four musicians and actors hand-picked by Louise Harrison, George Harrison’s sister. The concert includes songs such as “Come Together,” “She Loves You,” “Hey Jude,” “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and “Here Comes DeKalb library to hold the Sun.” The performance also will feature NAMI booth April 13 narrations by Harrison.

The DeKalb Public Library will host a The Liverpool Legends received a Grammy National Alliance on Mental Illness informa- nominations for its CD “Fab Fan Memories tion booth for residents to learn about the – The Beatles Bond” in 2012. The band has organization’s resources. recorded at Abbey Road Studios and The free booth will be held from 9:30 to performed at Carnegie Hall, The Cavern Club 11 a.m. April 13 in the library’s main lobby, 309 and the Rose Bowl.

Oak St. The Liverpool Legends also earn TripadviParticipants will be able to meet NAMI staff sor’s Travelers’ Choice Award and a Pollstar’s and and learn about Spanish and English Live75 chart spot. events and programs. No registration is Ticket prices range from $45 to $77. To buy required. tickets, call 815-758-1215 or visit egyptiantFor information, call 815-756-9568, ext. heatre.org/events-schedule.

2112, or email leahh@dkpl.org.

– Shaw Local News Network

Delano’s Custom Picture Framing

• Wedding Photos • Heirlooms • Mementos • Family Portraits • Sports Memorabilia • Art Projects

50% OFF CUSTOM FRAMES! Offer ends April 18th

223 N. Fourth Street, DeKalb • 815.756.2951

www.DelanosHomeDecorating.com SM-CL2313212

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Deadline is May 15

5

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

6

Fertilizer prices jump, squeezing Illinois farmers ‘This will continue to have ripple effects through the ag economy,’ says American Farm Bureau economist

By BOB OKON bokon@shawmedia.com

and TOM C. DORAN

tdoran@shawmedia.com The war in Iran is raising the price of fertilizer for farmers for the same reason it’s increasing gas prices for everyone.

The Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route threatened by the conflict, carries almost half of the world’s urea exports and about 30% of ammonia, both critical for fertilizer production.

The impact on fertilizer prices and supplies has set off alarm bells in the world of agriculture and a new focus in news reporting on the economic impact of the war.

How it affects farmers likely depends on how long the war lasts and whether fertilizer prices stay high.

“Definitely, prices have gone up,” said Grant Senesac, a Kankakee County farmer outside of Bourbonnais.

Prices already were going up before the war started.

Senesac bought anhydrous ammonia earlier this year at $900 a ton, a price already up from $800 a ton in 2025.

The price is rising faster now, he said.

“If you have not bought early or have not prepaid, I hear anhydrous ammonia right off the truck is about $1,100 a ton,” Senesac said.

Considering the volume of fertilizer needed for a growing season – Senesac uses more than 100 tons – the impact of the war could increase farm production costs by tens of thousands of dollars.

Many farmers, like Senesac, are not buying the bulk of their fertilizer now or in the coming weeks.

“I’ve always paid for my fertilizer in December or January,” said Will County farmer John Kiefner, who has land outside of Manhattan. “There’s a great financial incentive to buy early.”

The price typically rises closer to planting season, whether there’s a war in the Middle East or not, so farmers tend to buy fertilizer weeks or months

Illinois Farm Bureau file photo

Fertilizer is seen spread on an Illinois farm field. ahead of spring planting.

Kiefner said the impact of the current price hike is likely to be felt most by farmers who can afford it least. Farmers operating closer to the margin may have had to put off fertilizer purchases, leaving them vulnerable to the wartime price spike.

Farmers also are paying more for diesel fuel because of the war and more for equipment because of inflation, while the prices for corn and soybeans have been flat, and export markets are shrinking amid tariff battles.

“Our farmers across the country are heading into spring planting, and they’re facing one of the toughest economic environments that we’ve seen in decades,” American Farm Bureau Federal President Zippy Duvall said in a Zoom meeting with the media in March.

“We’re experiencing a generational decline in farm income, driven by outof-control inflation and declining crop prices.”

Duvall emphasized the stakes for farmers if a fertilizer shortage develops, adding that it could become everyone’s problem.

“Fertilizer is not an option to farmers,” he said. “It’s a critical input that determines the crop yield and, ultimately, the food supply for the American people.”

Duvall urged “fertilizer companies,

John Kiefner farms in the Manhattan area.

The war in Iran is causing prices of fertilizer to rise for farmers across the U.S. Shaw Local News Network file photo

distributors and suppliers to avoid price gouging or optimizing their pricing that would further strain our farmers who are already under tremendous financial pressure.”

About half of fertilizer applications for the corn crop are done in the spring, with after-planting applications to follow for corn and other crops, Farm Bureau economist Faith Parum said.

“So, this will continue to have ripple effects through the ag economy as we see farmers struggling to source fertilizer, and that will have dire impacts,” Parum said.

If a fertilizer shortage does lead to higher food prices in the supermarkets, it likely will be due to smaller crop sizes,

not farmers recovering the costs of doing business.

“We cannot pass those prices on,” Kiefner said. “We do not operate like a typical business.”

Farmers don’t set the prices for their crops. The market does, and farmers sell for what they can get.

Kiefner said many farmers take the fertilizer crisis in stride “because, unfortunately, chaos has become the new normal in the agricultural world.”

Adjusting to chaos can be difficult, even in the farm business.

“The toughest part is just the uncertainty,” Senesac said. “We don’t know what we’re getting any year.”

So far this year, it’s a fertilizer crisis.

7 PLAYTOWN will be Open

Enjoy eggs, omelettes, pancakes, french toast, biscuits & gravy, bacon & sausage for Adult $12, Children $6

Saturday, April 11th, 2026 7 am - 10 am Make Sure You Leave Space For Some Savory Treats!

Mark Busch file photo

Ellie Langley, 8, of DeKalb checks out the virtual reality exhibit April 5, 2025, during Earth Fest in Founders Memorial Library at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.

Earth Fest to return April 11 to DeKalb Vendors, sponsorships welcomed for Earth Fest SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com DeCarbon DeKalb will partner with Northern Illinois University Sustainability to host its third annual DeKalb County Earth Fest for community members to explore DeKalb County climate adaptation pathways.

The free festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 11 at NIU’s Founders Memorial Library, 217 Normal Road, DeKalb.

“Earth Fest continues to grow because people are hungry for climate conversations that feel local, doable, and hopeful,” DeCarbon DeKalb co-founder Kendra Holton Clemens said in a news release. “This event shows that change is not only possible, it’s actually already happening right here at home.”

The festival will include a Post Landfill Action Network keynote address, hands-on gardening and hydroponics education with NIU Edible Campus, and a native plant restoration session led by Sag Moraine Native Plant Community.

Earth Fest’s theme is “Which climate

action matters most? What matters most to me?”

Earth Fest also features the NIU Huskie Hail Hunter, an extreme weather research truck used in national climate and hail studies. Attendees can engage with active scientific research.

NIU’s STEAM team will lead a session on how to bring hands-on sustainability programs to nonprofits, businesses and classrooms. The programs will offer practical tools for community-based climate education.

DeCarbon DeKalb is accepting Earth Fest vendors and sponsorships. Vendors will be able to participate in a Vendor Meet and Greet to promote partnership and collaboration. To sponsor or vendor the event, email hello@decarbondekalb.com.

DeCarbon DeKalb is a neighbor-led, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing DeKalb County climate adaptation and decarbonization through community engagement, education and collaboration.

NIU Sustainability advances Northern Illinois University’s sustainability through academic partnerships, community collaboration, campus operations and student engagement and prepares communities and students to address climate challenges.

SPECIAL GUEST

Toy Story Characters

Trinity Lutheran Church

303 S. 7th St. • DeKalb, IL Questions? Email us at: trinitydekalb@comcast.net

SM-CL2311101

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Come Out and Enjoy a TLC Breakfast

$50 OFF

for Call E E R F ates im t s E

Service Call

• New Construction or Replacement • Repair Work • Doors and Openers • Residential and commercial

The “Welcome to DeKalb, Illinois” DeKalb High School utility box was painted by Christine Perkovich

815-756-4746

Artists wanted for America250 DeKalb painting program City of DeKalb seeking submissions for utility box mural decorating SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com The DeKalb Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission is seeking art submissions from community members for its utility box mural program.

The program uses digital photos of paintings by local artists to create vinyl wraps.

The wraps will be installed in the city’s utility boxes. The theme of this year’s program is “America250 DeKalb.”

“Public art has been a large part of the City’s efforts to enhance the quality of life in the DeKalb community over the past five years, and that continues this year as part of America250 DeKalb,” DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes said in a news release. “A new mural and lighting installation have already been approved by the City Council as America 250 DeKalb legacy projects, and we know DeKalb’s arts community will add

more vibrant artwork to the commemoration through our utility box murals.”

The program will give special consideration to submissions reflecting America 250 DeKalb’s spirit. The initiative’s goal is to build unity as the community works on activities commemorating the Declaration of Independence’s ideals.

“The utility box art program is among the city’s most visible and popular public art initiatives,” CCEC Chair and City Clerk Brad Hoey said in the release. “I am excited that this year’s project is aligned with our America 250 DeKalb celebration, giving artists an opportunity to apply their talents in creating vibrant, patriotic showpieces that will be a part of our community’s landscape for years to come.”

The utility box mural program’s Call for Artists includes the submission form and theme examples. Digital photo and painting scan submissions will be accepted through May 13. The program also will consider original digital artwork. The utility box mural program is partially supported by an Illinois Arts Council grant.

For information, visit cityofdekalb. com/1589/UtilityBox-Murals or onedekalb.org.

Servicing Most Doors and Openers: • Steel Conventional Raised Panel • Semi-Custom Wood Doors • Steel Carriage Doors in many Colors • And New Wood Tones

Add alot of curb appeal with a new Garage Door from J&D Door Sales!

Let the fresh air in with a Garage Door Screen that folds out of site

Photo provided by the city of DeKalb

Visit our website for more info - jdgaragedoors.com

See Our Trucks Everywhere!

NORTHERN ILLINOIS CARRY CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

4/19 ......................................Introduction to Handguns ....................................................................................9am - 1pm 4/25 & 26 .........................Concealed Carry/Home Defense.....................................................................8am - 4pm 5/9 ........................................Concealed Carry Permit Renewal .................................................................9am - 12pm 5/16 & 17............................Concealed Carry/Home Defense.............................................8am - 4pm both days 5/20 .....................................Concealed Carry Permit Renewal .................................................12pm - 3pm (Wed) 5/30 .....................................Defensive Handgun Techniques......................................................................9am - 3pm Private Concealed Carry/Home Defense classes can be arranged but a minimum of 5 students are required.

We are offering “Countering The Mass Shooter Threat” classes which are designed for every House of Worship, School, Business and Family. Please contact us for further information and/or scheduling dates. These classes can be taught at any location.

Please call or e-mail for further information.

See website for detailed description of all classes

CALL TO REGISTER & FOR COURSE INFORMATION

(815) 501-9421 | NORTHERNILLINOISCARRY.COM NORTHERNILLINOISCARRY@GMAIL.COM

SM-CL2312441

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

8

Dennis Leifheit

1926 – 100 YEARS AGO

Contractor Charles Nelson of Lincoln Street, has been off duty this week, on account of falling victim to the flu.

Mr. Nelson was able to get down town yesterday for the first time in several days.

Nelson states that while he has plenty of work to do, he is well satisfied that he had to be taken sick at this time, rather than a little later when business gets rushing. He expects to be able to get back into the harness the first of the coming week.

Ben Gross was brought back from Davenport, Iowa, this week, and is held on charge of obtaining goods under false pretenses. It is reported that F. B. Hostetler the jeweler, is responsible for the arrest of the man, as Gross purchased some goods of him, and misrepresented himself. When an investigation disclosed that the merPhoto provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives chandise had been secured under false Looking north at DeKalb Trust and Savings Bank, Lincoln Highway at Fourth Street in DeKalb, pretenses, the business man swore out a 1964. warrant for the Iowa man’s arrest. He will be sacrifice fly amendment. Resin may be used ble within a six-month period. held here for trial. to dry the hands, but the former prohibition of daubing or maltreating the ball still is in Illinois state police have orders to pick up Alfred Dresser of north west DeKalb, still effect. Previously, the sacrifice fly was automobiles carrying 1950 license plates or is a shut in having a relapse of the flu. He no plates at all. The state police radio today thinks he would rather test seed corn than recorded only when a run was scored, but the new rule gives credit for a sacrifice carried the orders that all cars with old be in bed any day. whenever the runner is advanced a base. plates or no plates at all were to be picked up. The 1951 licenses are due January 1 and This last snow offered exceptional 1951 – 75 YEARS AGO the secretary of state has reported that the opportunities for securing interesting Five auxiliary policemen on the DeKalb backlog for new plates has been met and winter scenes. And as the snow melts the the department will mail new plates green grass peeps through, giving promise force are making the traffic count at the intersection of East Lincoln Highway and promptly. of Spring Beauties, fruit trees in bloom, Seventh Street today. City Engineer Lloyd I. violets in the dell, the picnic in the woods, Johnson said today that the men would Actual building operations started etc. Everybody should have a camera to make the tally because the mechanical yesterday at Tilton Park when tree stumps record these interesting things. devices sometimes used were not available. were cleared and the basement dug for the The five auxiliary policemen will keep a tally home that is being erected for Mr. and Mrs. A communication from Chicago today on all traffic, whether straight through on Don C. Earle of DeKalb. contained the news of a marriage license having been issued in the city this morning the Highway and in which direction, straight through on Seventh, or whether making 1976 – 50 YEARS AGO to Miss Martha Loptein and Milton A. Round ‘em up and bring ‘em through. It’s a Corson, both of Sycamore. Further details of right or left turns. The count started at 6 o’clock this morning and will continue until bike rodeo. DeKalb police Lt. Richard Moudy the marriage are unknown, and will be 10 o’clock tonight. Auxiliary police on duty was on hand this morning at Littlejohn awaited with interest by the many friends are: Irwin Davis, Forrest Struthers, Elmer Elementary School for a bicycle safety of the young people both in DeKalb and Holbo, Cy Overton and Joe Fabrizius. program co-sponsored by the DeKalb Police Sycamore.

Department, Wally’s Cyclery and the DeKalb The Genoa City Council voted at its County 4-H clubs. Fourth and fifth graders The official Spalding Baseball Guide which has just been issued, contains new light on meeting Tuesday evening to install parking were tested on bicycle safety and traffic several obscure passages in the old text of meters in the city of Genoa for a trial period rules before certificates were awarded. the rules and illuminates the new changes, of six months as per contract with the The disposition of Howard Hughes’ empire which are not revolutionary. The important parking meter company. The contract allows the city to cancel the purchase was as much a mystery today as the changes are the use of the resin bag by contract if either are found to be undesira- eccentric lifestyle of the late billionaire pitchers for drying the hands and the

9 recluse himself. Three days after his death, no will had emerged. No one having anything to do with Hughes corporate fortune, estimated at between $1.5 billion and $2 billion, would confirm that a bequest even existed. Without a will, the federal government could tax up to 77 percent of Hughes’ holdings, an Internal Revenue Service spokesman said Wednesday.

Neighbors objected Tuesday night to two-family zoning for a subdivision at the corner of Hillcrest Drive and Sycamore Road in DeKalb. About 15 to 20 residents of the Woodlawn Drive and Lawnwood Avenue areas protested the rezoning request for the Bluff View subdivision during a Plan Commission public hearing.

Rezoning to allow construction of a K-Mart department store along Sycamore Road was approved by the DeKalb County Board of Appeals Monday night.

2001 – 25 YEARS AGO

Could airplane manufacturing giant Boeing decide that DeKalb County is the perfect place to locate its new corporate headquarters, bringing with it hundreds of employees and job opportunities, and pumping millions of dollars into the local economy? Probably not, say local officials but that’s no reason to give up hope.

In an effort to prevent problems before they begin, DeKalb High School conducted inspections of its lockers and parking lot earlier this week with the help of local law enforcement. The inspections, which have been conducted by the school for six years, turned up a small amount of marijuana in one student’s vehicle. The school reported that no other illegal items were found during the inspection.

On the edge of Fairview Park Cemetery sits a group of grave markers showing names like Blue, Muffy and Dude. These names are part of the Fairview Pet Cemetery, a burial site of pets at 1600 S. First St. The cemetery is not just a resting place for dogs. Birds, cars, rabbits and ferrets are all part of the 369 animals at the site. Fairview Pet Cemetery was dedicated Nov. 8, 1985, on the east side of Fairview Park Cemetery.

– Compiled by Sue Breese

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026

LOOKING BACK

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

10 Waterman Lions Club donation supports Clinton Township Library’s children’s summer reading program

Photo provided by Joseph Bennett

The Waterman Lions Club recently donated thousands to the Clinton Township Public Library to support the library’s children’s summer reading program. The $5,800 check donation was presented to the library on March 21, according to a news release. The reading program will allow children to read books from the library zduring the summer.

Sycamore

Country Store

Since 1991 23 years business

& Catering

Sycamore’s Butcher Shop That Cooks!!!

9am - 5pm

SO GOOD, YOU HAVE TO TASTE IT! Complete Lunch & Dinner Menu

25% OFF Some restrictions apply. See the store for details. Not valid with fleet discounts. Limit one coupon per vehicle. Coupon must be presented at the time of service and may not be combined with other banners, coupons, or discounted offers.Offer not valid on the customer’s own oil or filter.

Award Winning BBQ Baby Back Ribs

(noBBQ Rib Tips

Famous Seasoned Butterfly Pork Chops We will be smoking Beef Briskets!

Voted Best Barbecue in DeKalb County!

1st Place Sycamore Rib Fest

OUR CHARCOAL GRILLS ARE GOING EVERYDAY USING ONLY THE BEST 100% NATURAL CHARCOAL All our fine meats are grilled over charcoal fire and you can taste the difference!

670 AM The Score Victory Chicken Winners

Booking Now for 2026 Events

Weddings, Company Picnics, Reunions, Any Gathering

815-899-BEEF (2333)

SM-CL2284834

SM-CL2185274

Voted Best BBQ Catering in DeKalb County

456 North Main Street • Sycamore, IL HOURS: Tue.Fri. 10AM - 6PM(2333) · Sat. 10AM - 4PM 815-899-BEEF www.countrystorecatering.com 456 North Main Street • Sycamore, IL

SM-CL2311975

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026

DeKalb hopes to double Memorial Day parade size 11 City accepting parade entries through May 8 SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORL contact@shawmedia.com DeKalb city officials are hoping to double the size of the city’s annual Memorial Day parade this year, in part to help celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The city of DeKalb and America250 committee is encouraging community members to apply to enter the 2026 DeKalb Memorial Day parade to honor DeKalb-area veterans as part of America250 DeKalb.

The parade will begin at 9 a.m.

May 25 downtown.

The committee’s goal is to increase the number of parade entries by 25.

“As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, it is the right time to enhance the Memorial Day parade into a more impactful salute to America’s greatest heroes,” DeKalb mayor and veteran Cohen Barnes said in a news release.

“Without our active service members, veterans, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we would not have the freedoms promised to us in the Declaration of Independence. I encourage every community member, organization, and business to help make this year’s parade the tribute our veterans deserve.”

The Memorial Day parade lineup begins at 8:30 a.m. The parade will travel from Locust Street to Linden Place, ending at the Ellwood House Museum, 420 Linden Place. The parade procession will be followed by firstfloor mansion tours and a program on the museum’s lawn.

The parade is open to service groups, clubs, labor unions, nonprofit

Mark Busch file photo

DeKalb city officials are hoping to double the size of the city’s annual Memorial Day parade this year, in part to help celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. organizations, businesses, government units, youth sports teams and the faith community. Entries should be patriotic and may include vehicles, a banner or American flags. Veteran, city of DeKalb and America salutes are

encouraged. Parade entries must not include political banners, organizations or candidates.

Applications are due May 8. To apply, visit tinyurl.com/4dk8vtss or the city of DeKalb website.

Memorial Day events are a collaboration between the city of DeKalb, Ellwood House Museum, DeKalb Park District and community organizations.

For information, email scott.zak@ cityofdekalb.com or call 815-748-2396.

Family Service Agency of DeKalb County receives national reaccreditation across core standards surrounding ethical practice, service quality, governance and accountability nationFamily Service Agency of DeKalb ally. The review process includes subCounty recently received national mitting more than 1,000 documents for reaccreditation from the Council on review and peer reviewers examining Accreditation. agency policies, outcomes and operaThe reaccreditation places the tions for more than 240 hours. agency among a group of organizaFamily Service Agency of DeKalb tions demonstrating full compliance County also had facilities toured and

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

staff, board members and clients interviewed.

The agency’s reaccreditation provides community partners and donors independent verification that programs are professionally managed, accountable and aligned with nationally recognized best practices. The process also confirms the Family Service Agency of DeKalb County’s

resources are used responsibly.

The Council on Accreditation’s accreditation demonstrates the services meet nationally recognized safety, effectiveness and accountability standards. The national reaccreditation reflects the organization’s strength and the staff, board members, volunteers and supporters’ dedication.

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

12

RAMP to offer residents communication help Free atmplified phones, accessible communication devices to be available SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com RAMP Disability Resources and Services will offer access to free amplified phones and accessible communication device to residents in Boone, DeKalb, Stephenson and Winnebago counties through the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation program.

The program provides deaf, hard-ofhearing or speech disabled individuals specialized equipment to communicate through digital devices and by phone.

RAMP will assist community members with the application process and help select equipment to meet communication needs. The program’s devices include cell phone amplifiers, amplified telephones, CapTel captioned phones and accessible iPhones and iPads. The iPads are available for residents ages five and older.

Applications must be Illinois residents who have a landline or cell phone service. The applicants also must provide an application signed by a medical professional confirming they are unable to use a standard phone.

“The ITAC program ensures that individuals with hearing or speech disabilities have access to the tools they need to communicate with family, health care providers, and their communities,” RAMP Disability Resources

AP file photo

RAMP Disability Resources and Services will offer access to free amplified phones and accessible communication device to residents in Boone, DeKalb, Stephenson and Winnebago counties through the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation program and Services office support specialist Alexis Shoemaker said in a news release.

The Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation program is

required by state law and funded through a monthly landline and wireless phone services surcharge.

RAMP is a United Way member agency that aims to build an inclusive

community to encourage individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.

For information, call 815-756-3202, 815-233-1128 or 815-968-7467.

B.S degree in Education from Northern Illinois University in 1986. Gina worked for NIU and several medical centers.

Born: September 26, 1964 Gina was the youngest of four. She sang Died: March 28, 2026 and danced with her sister Kathy while doing Gina Maria Unger, 61, puzzles. She was born on her sister Sherry’s 5th birthday; the two loved holiday outings of DeKalb, IL passed and seeing Wicked together in Chicago. Gina’s away on March 28, brother Darrel took her on a magical trip to 2026 in Geneva, IL following a severe dia- Disney World. She was an adoring aunt with a betes complication. She whimsical sense of humor.

Gina lived life with a soundtrack all her own, was born September from belting out “White Rabbit” at karaoke to 26, 1964 at St. Mary’s singing all the words at concerts. She espeHospital in DeKalb.

A 1982 graduate of DeKalb High School, Gina cially loved the music of R.E.M., Led Zeppelin, REO Speedwagon, and The Bangles. She was was in choir and color guard. She earned a

happiest snuggling with her beloved cats, Willow and Beckett, or enjoying Supernatural, The X-Files, Stranger Things, and Anne Rice novels.

Gina was preceded in death by her parents James Vannucci, Jr. and Jeanette (Taylor); her paternal grandparents James Sr. and Kathryn (Farrell) Vannucci; her maternal grandparents Walter and Irma (Spohn) Taylor; infant sister Mary Kallembach; infant nephew Darrel Schofield; many dear aunts, uncles, and cousins; and her cherished cat, Luke.

She is dearly missed by her siblings: Kathy (Kallembach) Schofield of DeKalb, Sherry (Vannucci) Christensen and husband David of Sycamore, and Darrel Kallembach and wife Bobbie of Nixa, MO. She was aunt to Tammy Lexa,

Willy (Karen) Schofield, Claire Christensen (Casey Sarapas), Ross Christensen, Rachel Kallembach (Tanveer Kahn), and Brandon Kirk.

Great-aunt to Cassie, Katrina (Alex), Bethany, Collin, Genevieve, Lane, Affan, Vanessa, and Yadi. Great-great aunt to Magnolia. She will also be deeply missed by special friend Jim and lifelong friend Roxanne.

A memorial open house will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Ellwood House Visitor Center Hearthside Room, 420 Linden Pl., DeKalb. Family and friends are invited to share memories of Gina at 12:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gina’s name to TAILS Humane Society.

OBITUARIES GINA MARIA (VANNUCCI) UNGER

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026

SUDOKU AND SUPER CROSSWORD ANSWERS ON PAGE 2

13

AMUSEMENTS

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

14

CLASSIFIED To place an ad

833-584-NEWS (6397)

For Used Pinball Machines

classified@shawlocal.com

HOUSE FOR SALE House for sale, Scarboro , IL 3-4 bedroom. 1 bath, .32 acres Beautiful wood work, bathroom needs some attention 175,000 Text or call 815-751-4335

Advertising Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise "any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination."

Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

To complain of discrimination call HUD 1-800-669-9777 Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

GENERAL PRODUCTION $15-20/hour 1st & 2nd Shift

Benefits • 4-day work week • Quarterly perfect attendance bonuses awarded in recognition of our team's commitment

CLASSICS WANTED

Restored or Unrestored

• Generous benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision & 401k with company match

Cars & Vintage Motorcycles

• Vacation, PTO and 10 paid Holidays

Domestic / Import Cars:

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferraris, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars $$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Experience is preferred, but we are willing to train any individuals with the right skill sets and work ethic.

Email resume to:

Collector James

humanresources@seymourpaint.com

630-427-7270

917 Crosby Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

or come in to fill out an application at:

Introducing the

All New Walk-In Shower!

Al's Electric

N

Retired, but not tired.

Licensed. Only 45 years experience.

Just Call Al

FINANCING AVAILABLE WITH APPROVED CREDIT

CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445

d in

viduals

om

815-632-2560

Shower Safely

and stay in the home you love!

Discover how a walk-in shower can help reduce the risk of falling,giving you the freedom to enjoy your bathroom again. ✓ Commercial Grade Non-Slip Floor ✓ Easy-to-reach Shower Wand ✓ Professionally Installed in 1 day ✓ Fold Down Safety Seat ✓ Luxurious 8" Rainfall Shower Head ✓ Ergo L Shaped Grab Bar ✓ Lifetime Warranty ✓ Optional Barrier Free Wheelchair Accessible

Get up to

750 OFF

$

for limited time only

Call Today 855-488-2288 and receive exclusive savings.

Visit YourSafeStep.com today. of purchase. Financing available with approved credit.

630.514.6569

No Business is too small to advertise

15 MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026

AT YOUR SERVICE

Call to Advertise

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, April 8, 2026 MIDWEEK

16