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Tickets available for IVT’s ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’
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The Indian Valley Theatre announced tickets are available for its upcoming production of “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.”
The performances will be held at 7 p.m. on April 24 and 25, and at 2 p.m. April 25 and 26 at the Sandwich Opera House, 140 E. Railroad St.
“The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe,” based on the 1950 book of
the same name by C.S. Lewis, tells the story of four siblings who discover the land of Narnia through a wardrobe. The siblings join the lion Aslan to defeat the evil Witch who trapped Narnia in eternal winter.
The Indian Valley Theatre production will be directed by Jen Ketchum, produced by Kari Frantzen and stage-managed and assistant-directed by Kailey Christine.
Tickets cost $18 plus fees for adults and $15 plus fees for children ages 18 and younger.
The tickets also can be bought at the opera house for $20 for adults and $17 for children.
To buy tickets, visit indianvalleytheatre.com/shows.
Indian Valley Theatre is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the appreciation and development of the performing arts in the Fox Valley area.
For information, visit indianvalleytheatre.com or send a message on the IVT Facebook page.
DeKalb, Sycamore bookstores to hold Bookshop Hop
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Golden Hour Bookstore will partner with Hidden Chapter Bookshop and Robin’s Nest Bookshoppe to hold an Independent Bookstore Day Crosstown Bookshop Hop for residents to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day.
The free event will begin at 10 a.m. April 25 at Robin’s Nest Bookshoppe, 218 E. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb; Golden Hour Bookstore, 265 W. Peace Road, Suite 108, Sycamore; and Hidden Chapter Bookshop, 207 W. State St., Suite A, Sycamore.
Attendees will be able to shop and win prizes. A grand prize featuring items
PUZZLE ANSWERS
puzzlesonpage17
Shaw Local News Network iStock Crosstown Bookshop Hop coming to DeKalb, Sycamore April 25.
from the stores also will be available. Participants can pick up a stamp card to track independent bookstore support at
the stores.
Activities at the bookstores include:
• Golden Hour Bookstore: Official ABA Indie Bookstore Day merchandise, hourly giveaways, 20 to 40% off store sales and early-bird sales from 10 to 11 a.m.
• Robin’s Nest Bookshoppe: Coloring table, Blackwing Indie Bookstore Day pencils, Libro.fm hidden golden ticket, official ABA Indie Bookstore Day merchandise, freebies and 10% off for a year with purchase contest.
• Hidden Chapter Bookshop: Dirty Soda vendor, book gift with purchases, search and find prize and local authors. For information, visit the book stores Facebook or Instagram pages.
ON THE COVER
April 11 posing for a picture during the third annual DeKalb County Earth Fest in NIU’s Founders Memorial Library 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.
Kristen Borre (left) and Jo Plenger-Schultz (right) are seen
Photo by Megann Horstead
DeKalb woman wants to bring skating rink to town
Local woman crowdfunding goal to expand DeKalb’s entertainment options
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
Lorraine Dixon wants to help bring some more fun to DeKalb with her plans to open a new indoor skating rink in town.
The DeKalb resident, who is a mother of 11 children, said it’s clear that there is a need in the community for what she is proposing.
“We just really need something to do,” she said.
Dixon approached the City Council this week to make a pitch, asking for its support and approval. She’s also launched a GoFundMe campaign, hoping to raise money to help make the idea a reality.
In response, Mayor Cohen Barnes directed Dixon to the DeKalb Park District for the next steps.
Such proposals are nothing new to officials in the DeKalb city government.
“This is a topic that comes up quite often,” Barnes said.
DeKalb used to have an indoor skating rink.
The mayor said he’d love to see a skat-
ing rink in town.
As a DeKalb resident for the past 8 years, Dixon said she sees a lot of value in what a skating rink would mean to the city.
“DeKalb is a beautiful, growing com -
munity,” Dixon said. “However, one gap I have observed is the limited ... [availability of] recreational spaces for our youth and families, especially in the evenings and on the weekends. When those options are limited, families are left searching for positive alternatives.”
This is where the idea of “Sunshine on Wheels,” a new indoor skating rink, moves into the frame. But there’s more to the concept. Dixon also wants the venue to feature space for an arcade, laser tag, a mini bar and other entertainment amenities.
Dixon is proposing a way to establish such a concept in town by 2027.
Dixon said she’s already identified two vacant spots along Sycamore Road that she’d like to consider setting up shop.
No lease agreement has been secured.
To date, a GoFundMe campaign set up to raise funds for the proposed new skating rink in DeKalb has amassed $120. Dixon still is early on in raising the money to help make it happen.
“I’ve been dreaming about it,” Dixon said. “My dreams are really vivid. Sunshine on Wheels, it’s a dream.”
Megann Horstead
DeKalb resident Lorraine Dixon approaches the City Council April 13 to make a pitch for establishing a new indoor skating rink in town.
Andy Sullivan named 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Kishwaukee College Foundation recently named DeKalb County Sheriff Andy Sullivan as its 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.
The award honors alumni who have demonstrated outstanding service or contributions in the college’s community.
“It is a huge honor to be selected for this award, as I am sure there are many deserving candidates. I am proud to be a Kish graduate and serve my community. This is a great highlight I can share,” Sullivan said in a news release.
Sullivan earned a basic nurse assisting certificate from the college in 1992. He also studied criminal justice from 1994 to 1997. Sullivan established connections through Kishwaukee College to work with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.
“Andy’s selfless dedication to the residents of DeKalb County and the Kishwaukee College community makes him an excellent choice for the Distin-
guished Alumni Award,” Kishwaukee College Foundation executive director
Courtney Walz said in the release. “His story of lifelong learning sets a great example for anyone looking to advance their college or career goals.”
“I got into law enforcement through Kish. One of my Criminal Justice program courses was an internship. When I completed my internship, I was offered a role at the Sheriff’s Office due to the contacts I made,” Sullivan also said in the news release.
He worked in the sheriff office’s corrections department in 1996 and transferred to the patrol division in 1998. Sullivan also worked as a K-9 handler in 2001. He was promoted to patrol sergeant in 2008, patrol lieutenant in 2012 and chief deputy in 2015. Sullivan was appointed sheriff after DeKalb County Sheriff Roger Scott’s retirement in 2021. He currently is running unopposed for reelection in 2026.
“This has been my one and only police job. I realized this is where I want to be. This is the community I grew up in, and it is the community I want to serve,” Sullivan said in the news release.
Sullivan returned to Kishwaukee College as a part-time student in 2007. He earned a degree in criminal justice in 2011. He also received a criminal justice and leadership degree in 2015 and public management graduate study certificate in 2017.
“As an adult learner, it’s always a positive that you can go back and finish your degree,” Sullivan said. “I realized that’s what I needed to do. I wanted my kids to see me finish my degree and complete my aspirations in my career field. I was able to work around my schedule and take classes here and there to make it work. Having the opportunity to come back and finish something that you started is really important. Kishwaukee College is instrumental in offering that for our community.”
Sullivan coordinates with community leaders to enhance public safety. He also is a member of community organizations, including the Illinois Concerns of Police Survivors chapter, DeKalb Salvation Army advisory board, DeKalb Knights of Columbus Council 717 and St. Mary’s Church in DeKalb.
Photo provided by Kishwaukee College
Andy Sullivan
Rooted For Good Lists May Grow Mobile dates
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Rooted For Good released a list of May 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 May are:
• 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. May 5 at the Clinton Township Community Building, 160 W. Lincoln Highway, Waterman.
• 3 to 5 p.m. May 7 at University Vil-
lage Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• 3 to 5 p.m. May 12 at the Cortland Lions Club Shelter, 70 S. Llanos St., Cortland.
• 11 a.m. to noon May 14 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• 3 to 5 p.m. May 19 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• 3:30 to 5 p.m. May 21 at the Malta Historical and Genealogical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta.
• 4 to 6 p.m. May 26 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 340 W. Arnold Road, Sandwich.
• 11 a.m. to noon May 28 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• Carpeting by DreamWeaver, Mohawk, Shaw, Tuftex
• Merillat Cabinetry
• Laminate and Hard Surface Counter Tops
• Ceramic Tile
• Hardwood & Laminate Flooring
• Vinyl Flooring and Luxury Vinyl Tile
MON-FRI 7:30AM-5:30PM SATURDAY 8:00AM-2:00PM
Shaw Local News Network file photo
A basket of freshly picked produce. Rooted for Good is making sure residents stay fed with Grow Mobile pop-up food pantries at locations throughout DeKalb County.
DeKalb STARR Awards spotlight community impact in sustainability
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK
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Four local leaders in sustainability have been recognized with DeKalb’s annual STARR Awards for their work in small business, government, a learning garden and a pawpaw advocate.
The City’s Citizens’ Environmental Commission (CEC) presented the DeKalb STARR (Sustainability Through Action, Resiliency and Responsibility) Awards on April 11 at Earth Fest, hosted by DeCarbon DeKalb and Northern Illinois University at Founders Memorial Library.
“These awards highlight the incredible work happening across DeKalb to
build a more sustainable community,”
CEC Chair Julie Jesmer said in a news release. “From growing fresh food and planting native trees to advancing clean energy and sustainable business practices, this year’s recipients are leading by example and making a lasting impact.”
The STARR Awards recognize individuals, businesses and organizations in the DeKalb community who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to sustainability across multiple categories. Nominations were solicited and received from community members.
This year, the Rick Johns Memorial Donation Garden received the STARR
Award for Sustainable Community Project. The garden at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church provides hands-on learning for NIU students and donated more than 1,000 pounds of produce last year.
Austin Cliffe, Executive Director of the Pawpaw Foundation, was named the Individual Sustainability Champion for his work leading the nonprofit in its mission to plant native pawpaw trees and educate the public about their ecological, cultural and nutritional value.
Every Little Bit was named Green Business of the Year. Owner Jessica Cima has turned her love and knowledge of sustainable food production and preservation into a company that
shares her passion with others.
The Kishwaukee Water Reclamation District received the STARR Award for Corporate/Institutional Environmental Leadership to recognize KWRD’s multiple sustainability initiatives, including facility upgrades, rewilding more than ten acres with native plants, and the installation of generators fueled by biogas, putting KWRD on track to become energy neutral.
Community members are encouraged to keep an eye out for their neighbors making a difference in sustainability locally and submit their names for a STARR Award when the nomination period reopens early next year.
Photo provided by city of DeKalb
Members of the Citizens’ Environmental Commission gather with the recipients of the DeKalb STARR Awards following the presentation at Earth Fest on April 11 at Northern Illinois University’s Founders Memorial Library.
‘The Trouble with My Hair’ performance set for April 23 in DeKalb
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The First Congregational United Church of Christ will hold a “The Trouble with My Hair: Coloring, Cutting, and Coming into Who I Am” performance featuring storyteller and solo performer Ada Cheng.
The performance will begin at 7 p.m. April 23 at the church, 615 N. First St., DeKalb.
The performance examines Cheng’s evolving hair relationship with narrative art and theatrical storytelling. “The Trouble with My Hair: Coloring, Cutting, and Coming into Who I Am” also reflects her gender, sexual and racial identity journey. The doors to the church open at 6:45 p.m.
Cheng has toured with “Not Quite” and “Loving Across Borders” solo performances nationally since 2016. She created several storytelling platforms
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Teen Art Club to meet April 23
Teenagers in sixth through 12th grades can attend a Teen Art Club to craft, draw or take-and-make artwork at the DeKalb Public Library.
The free club will meet at 4:30 p.m. April 23 in the library’s Teen Room, 309 Oak St. Art materials and projects will be provided. Because of limited supplies, the club is first-come, first-served. No registration is required. For information, email juanb@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3401.
DeKalb library to hold National Library Week tattoo event April 25
The DeKalb Public Library will partner with DeKalb Tattoo Company to offer adults a one-day flash tattoo event to celebrate National Library Week.
The event will run from 1 to 7 p.m. April 25 at DeKalb Tattoo Company, 817 W. Lincoln Highway, Suite G.
The event features a collection of library-themed flash tattoos created by local artists. Attendees also can view community
Ada Cheng
focused on BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Cheng was recognized as Dominican University’s 2023–24 Lund-Gill Endowed Chair and earned Illinois Humanities 2024 Public Humanities
Award. She also is an Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau featured speaker.
Tickets cost $40. The ticket proceeds will support the Legacy Wall. The Legacy Wall is an exhibit which raises awareness of LGBTQ+ individuals roles played in human history across the country. To buy tickets, visit ellwoodhouse.org/calendar.
For information, email king@ellwoodhouse.org or call 815-756-4609.
organization and artist pop-up tables. Tattoo designs will be available prior to the event on the library’s social media pages. The tattoo prices begin at $100. Appointments are encouraged. Walk-ins also will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. For information, email amyf@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6108, or 815-901-0024.
DeKalb library to offer self defense workshop April 22
The DeKalb Public Library will offer an Inform Encounters workshop for teens in sixth through 12 grades to learn self defense skills. The free workshop will begin at 3:30 p.m. April 22 in the library’s Teen Room, 309 Oak St.
Participants can learn skills to prevent and manage encounters through physical, awareness and verbal de-escalation techniques. The workshop will be held by Kung Fu teacher Arthur Berry. No registration is required. For information, email yooneks@ dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6110. –ShawLocalNewsNetwork
Sycamore Lions Club
Drive‑Through Pork Chop Dinner
Sycamore United Methodist Church Catered by: County Store & Catering May 20, 2025 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m
$16.00 per ticket
for tickets please call or text Tony at 815-762-4861 or purchase tickets at the Sycamore United Methodist Church office at 160 Johnson Ave. Sycamore
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
DeKalb Chamber’s annual Local Showcase to feature more than 100 vendors
The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Local Showcase spring exposition for residents to connect with local organizations and businesses.
The free showcase will run from 3:30 to 7 p.m. April 23 at the Northern Illinois University Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb.
The showcase includes more than 100 businesses and organizations featuring activities, employment opportunities, displays, giveaways, resources and demonstrations.
Concessions also will be available to buy.
The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce provides businesses in the greater DeKalb region with resources, avenues for businesses to connect with the community and advocates for business needs.
For information, visit dekalb.org, call 815-756-6306 or visit the chamber’s social media pages.
DeKalb library group’s spring book sale begins April 24
The Friends of the DeKalb Public Library will hold a spring book sale to support the library’s books, programs and materials.
The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 24 and 25 and from 1 to 4:30 p.m. April 26 in the library’s lower-level, 309 Oak St.
Books on sale include hardcover and paperback science, fiction, history, graphic novels, mysteries, biographies, science fiction, cookbooks, film, children and teen novels, art and gardening books.
Jigsaw puzzles, audiobooks, DVDs and CDs also will be for sale.
Gently used CDs, DVDs, books and puzzles will be accepted for donation at the circulation desk. Magazines, LPs, textbooks and videotapes are not allowed. A $5-brown-bag blowout sale is set for April 26.
For information, call 815-756-9568, ext. 1030, or email friends@dkpl.org. – Shaw Local News Network
Seatings available every 15 minutes from 9:30am–2:30pm
REQUIRED Call (815) 756-2345 or visit Farandas.com
LOOKING BACK
1926 – 100 YEARS AGO
According to an invoice presented to the police department today, nine suits of clothing were taken from the Wolff clothing store early in the week. The garments were of the better class and Mr. Wolff estimates his loss at more than $300. As far as the store folks are able to check up, it is not believed that other merchandise was taken by the robbers. No trace has yet been found concerning the robbers.
Contractors in charge of the construction of the new garage on North Fourth street in DeKalb have started on the roof, and it is not going to be long before the place is enclosed. The side walls were completed two or three days ago and the red brick front was put in. After the bricks have become firmly set, it is understood that the frame work will be carried on rapidly. The new building is going to add materially to the appearance of North Fourth street. Just when the owner expects to be able to occupy the new quarters has not been announced.
“What has become of the street flusher that Sycamore bought last year?” Such is the query that has been heard in several places, following the announcement several days ago that with the dust on the streets at this time, there is every danger of disease spreading. It is the belief of many residents that the machine bought by the city last year can be used to good advantage at this time in removing the germ carrying dust and thus eliminate all danger of disease. It is probable that the city street and alley department will put the big machine into operation within the next few days and get the city’s streets cleaned up.
Members of the construction crew of the DeKalb Couty Telephone company have started on the task of rebuilding the company’s property in Waterman, according to reports, and this will require several weeks’ time. It is understood that the entire system in the south end of the county will be overhauled and put in the best possible condition.
1951 – 75 YEARS AGO
The first pack meeting of the newly organized Shabbona Cub Scout troop was
Northern Illinois University students began planting trees in the NIU west campus Eco-Park this morning in a dual observance of National Earth Day and Illinois Arbor Day. The tree planting is part of an attempt to recreate an eco-system in the park with an assemblage of trees, shrubs and other plants native to Illinois
The management of Clinton Township business, under the direction of Supervisor Harold Boekenhauer and Road Commissioner Dick Hunt, drew praise at the April 13 annual meeting. Boekenhauer said road equipment is in better repair because the heated facility makes upkeep easier. Hunt read an inventory of equipment and said all but one loader is paid for.
held Thursday evening in the Legion Hall. Ten Cub Scouts were present with a large representation of their parents.
Mayor Frank W. Sohne of Sycamore was presiding over the City Council Tuesday night when a big moth flew into the room and darted its uncertain way in his direction. He reached out with his pencil, made a pass at the moth, and hit a home run. He bowed and grinned and never missed a word in his talk. The moth fluttered to the floor.
Spring has come for the DeKalb fire department. The annual cleanup and spring checkup of material and equipment started at the fire barn today. The smoke eaters were busy checking all pieces of equipment, touching up worn spots with paint or shellac, cleaning and oiling equipment and giving their trucks a good grease job.
A Kirkland gas station was broken into and burglarized some time last night, DeKalb County Sheriff Francis Sullivan said today. Victim of the burglary was the Awe Standard Station in the west end of Kirkland. A five-horse-power outboard motor, a .22 caliber rifle, a 16-gauge shotgun and several tires were taken. The break-in was discovered by the station proprietor this morning when he opened for business.
Authorities are continuing an investigation.
DeKalb took time off today to listen and watch Gen. Douglas MacArthur make his promised speech on the Asian situation from the national capital. The business area was practically deserted as DeKalb citizens gathered around radios and television sets. Practically every place of business in the city had a radio on and the clubs and taverns with television sets were thronged with silent crowds.
Three local option issues were decided in favor of the drys and special tax issues were evenly divided, as voting of yesterday came to a conclusion. The wet and dry issue up in Cortland, Malta and Lee, found the drys coming out ahead, Cortland and Malta remaining dry and Lee, which had not been in that category, going over into the dry ranks.
1976 – 50 YEARS AGO
Developers of the proposed K-Mart shopping center on Sycamore Road got the go-ahead from the DeKalb County Board Wednesday night. Despite objections from DeKalb city officials attending the meeting and several board members, commercial rezoning for the 10-acre site was granted to the petitioner, the American National Bank and Trust Co., Chicago.
Food stand planning for the Sandwich Fair has been started by the Sandwich Band Association. The early kickoff was necessary to allow for the preparation of less expensive and better tasting “scratch” recipes, true to the old-time fair stand tradition.
2001 – 25 YEARS AGO
In spite of wind and threatening weather, eight volunteers set out Saturday for the 10th annual Kishwaukee River cleanup. Organized by Jeff and Marcia Rohr of Sycamore, the annual Earth Day project provides both recreation and an opportunity to protect the environment. The Rohrs, through their business, Rohr’s Wilderness Tours, outfit the volunteers with canoes, paddles and life vests. Working in teams of four, the Rohrs took the teams to two locations on the Kishwaukee, where they began their cleanup operations.
Thanks to Illinois First money, Cortland will be able to add a new fire truck to its fire department. The $50,000 grant, provided through Gov. George Ryan’s program, will replace the department’s worn-down truck that is the first unit to respond to medical calls and also handles grass fires.
The Target store donated something little on Wednesday that could mean a lot to children when they need it most. The store donated teddy bears to the Sycamore Fire Department and the DeKalb County Chapter of the American Red cross as part of the Helping Hugs program.
–CompiledbySueBreese
Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives Looking west at Huntley Middle School at Taylor and Seventh streets in DeKalb is seen April 26, 1970.
Collins Dental Group
Dr. Ito was born and raised in Naperville, Illinois. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine in Downers Grove, IL. Master of Science and certificate in orthodontics from Marquette University School of Dentistry
Dr. Ito has presented and received numerous awards for his research projects regarding orthodontics, which minimize the length required for active orthodontic treatment. He is also highly trained in Invisalign treatment. Please call our office at 815-758-3666 to schedule a complimentary no charge orthodontic consultation.
DeKalb City Council enlists firm to conduct another commuter rail study
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
The city of DeKalb is enlisting a firm to help conduct another commuter rail study.
At a recent City Council meeting, city leaders took a step forward in their plans to push for a train service, entering into a consulting agreement with TY Lin International Great Lakes, Inc. DeKalb city officials have long pursued ways to push for an expanded Metra service or commuter rail that could connect the city to Chicago.
TY Lin International Great Lakes has been tasked with conducting a Planning and Environmental Leakages Study for the Union Pacific rail corridor between Elburn and DeKalb.
Mayor Cohen Barnes said he’s excited about the progress being made.
“It’s moving forward like a locomotive, really slow at first,” Barnes said, joking.
to DeKalb.
The city previously had another study conducted in 2023 to determine the feasibility of bringing a commuter rail service to DeKalb. In it, the city identified potential opportunities in the 1,257% increase in growth noted in its bus ridership from 2019 to 2025, servicing commuters between DeKalb
and Elburn, according to city documents. City staff said those annual bus ridership levels in 2019 amounted to a little more than 3,100 and in 2025 rose to about 43,000.
The new rail study is intended to address rail safety, environmental and community impacts, intermodal connectivity, economic feasibility and coordination with regional plans, according to city documents.
With council approval this week, the city can begin future National Environmental Policy Act processes and position itself for potential Federal Transit Administration grant opportunities.
Third Ward Alderman Tracy Smith urged the council for its support.
Smith, a retired DeKalb police officer who works for Voluntary Action Center, a regional transportation provider for the elderly and people with disabilities, when he’s not serving out his role as an alderman.
“This is huge that we’ve got [Illinois Department of Transportation] on board,” Smith said. “[As] someone who lives in this world, this is critical.”
For years, there has been talk at City Council meetings about the idea of bringing a commuter rail to town.
At last week’s council meeting, city leaders voted to authorize a consulting agreement with TY Lin International Great Lakes to help move along plans for such a service.
That firm was selected from a pool of three for council consideration after having amassed the highest ranking score based on experience, technical approach, responsiveness, schedule and cost, city documents show.
The city intends to rely on an IDOT transit planning grant in the amount of $400,000 to make it happen, city documents show. DeKalb also will be responsible for contributing $100,000 in matching local funds.
Fourth Ward Alderman Justin Carlson expressed his support for the project.
“Like Alderman Smith said, working with IDOT half of my life, you don’t wait while it’s hot,” Carlson said. “If the money’s out there, then you have to get it going. If not, you will be left.”
Mark Busch file photo
DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes said he’s excited about the progress being made to explore ways to bring a commuter train service
City Council considers proposed Entertainment District
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
A new concept before the DeKalb City Council could entertain the idea of allowing patrons to consume drinks in and around the premises of multiple establishments in the city’s downtown.
Under a proposed Entertainment District, participating businesses of the city’s Central Business District would pilot a program in which patrons may carry a single alcoholic beverage in a city-approved, branded cup.
The concept, if approved by the council, aims to provide a fun, safe way to encourage more pedestrians to walk downtown in the late afternoon and eve-
ning, combining dining and entertainment venues, according to the city.
Seventh Ward Alderman John Walker said he sees a need for an Entertainment District.
“People in my ward are telling me ‘We need something to do downtown,’ ” Walker said.
Piloting such a program is nothing new in northern Illinois.
Other communities adopting such measures include Chicago, Rockford, Utica and more.
Mayor Cohen Barnes expressed his support for the program and what it would offer.
“What I’m probably most excited about is our downtown merchants being
able to create new events and new things that they want to do,” Barnes said. “This is going to help facilitate.”
City staff said a proposed entertainment district in DeKalb may include about a dozen participating businesses.
Any establishment with a liquor license opting in would have city-issued stickers or displays to indicate their program participation, city documents show. Adults age 21 or older also would be required to wear a wristband to show they have been carded and purchased a drink.
Any business found not adhering to the city’s rules may face penalties under the existing liquor license regulations, city documents show.
Non-licensed businesses within the Entertainment District may choose whether to welcome these customers onto their premises with the understanding that drinks are sold and served elsewhere in the district, city documents show. Participation is not mandatory for all establishments in the downtown.
Sixth Ward Alderman Mike Verbic said he wanted to know how the proposed district may impact the city’s police department from an enforcement perspective.
“We’ve had recent discussions about the concerns of people gathering in our parking lots downtown,” Verbic said. “I
Shaw Local News Network file photo
El Jimador Mexican Grill Co-owner Olivia Pacheco pours margaritas on May 5, 2023, during DeKalb’s first Cinco de Mayo celebration co-hosted by Willrett Flower Co. at Third Street in DeKalb.
Sycamore Carpetland USA updates showroom
Photo provided by the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Teen air hockey tournament set for April 24 in DeKalb Teenagers in grades six through 12 who like to play air hockey are invited to the DeKalb Public Library to challenge friends and show off skills.
The free tournament will begin at 3:30 p.m. April 24 in the library’s Teen Room, 309 Oak St.
Prizes will be awarded. Snacks also will be served. No registration is required.
For information, email stevenm@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3400.
– Shaw Local News Network
Mark Busch file photo Seventh Ward Alderman John Walker speaks at a June 2025 City Council meeting. Walker said he sees a need for an Entertainment District.
• ENTERTAINMENT
Continued from page 12
could see this somewhat encouraging that practice.”
In response, City Manager Bill Nicklas emphasized the police department’s commitment to community policing.
“Chief and I have talked about this,” Nicklas said. “This is a challenge. ... We’ll have to have people who are in downtown, some of our officers.”
The program is intended to run from 4 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. A last call for drinks may be implemented at 9:30 p.m.
Alcohol in non-city-approved bottles, cans and glass containers would not be allowed and is restricted outside of the proposed Entertainment District.
The district’s boundaries would be contained on the west by the east cur-
bline of North First Street; on the north by the south curbline of East Locust Street; on the east by the west curbline of North Fourth Street; and on the south by the Union Pacific right-ofway, city documents show.
Also included as a proposed cutout is the northeast corner of North Fourth Street and East Locust Street to include The Grove Tavern, 204 N. Fourth St. Barnes said he likes the idea of removing this barrier for downtown area businesses and special events.
“With some of the events that we already have going on, this just allows a little more freedom for those kind of things that naturally happen,” Barnes said.
A vote on the program is expected at a future date.
If approved, an ordinance outlining an Entertainment District would include a Dec. 31 sunset date. In doing so, the City Council can decide whether to renew or extend the program.
Short-Term Rehabilitation That Puts
DeCarbon DeKalb, NIU host 3rd annual DeKalb County Earth Fest
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
The Northern Illinois University campus in DeKalb was abuzz with activities April 11, with the return of DeKalb County Earth Fest, an annual event celebrating the environment and sustainability.
The event, in its third year, was a collaboration made possible by organizers from DeCarbon DeKalb and Northern Illinois University.
DeCarbon DeKalb co-founder Kendra Clemens described the event as a success.
“They’re loving it so far,” Clemens said. “They’re having a blast.”
Kicking off the event was a keynote address by a representative from the Post-Landfill Action Network.
At the event, there was a vendor resource fair featuring more than 50 organizations.
Attendees also were treated to their share of giveaways.
New to the event, attendees were greeted outside by the NIU Huskie Hail Hunter, an extreme weather research truck used in national climate and hail studies.
A majority of the activities were held inside Founders Memorial Library.
But some people took to Normal Road to find that food trucks had set up shop outside and were cooking up good eats.
In the lead-up to Saturday, organizers promoted the event as a free, family-friendly way to engage the public without doom and guilt, but to offer practical next steps.
Clemens said she hoped people enjoy what DeKalb County Earth Fest has to offer.
“I hope they take away a sense of hope that our community is really leading the way,” Clemens said. “There’s no reason for giving gloom. Let’s just get to work.”
Austin Coleman of DeKalb County Forest Preserve greeted passersby as they approached his booth. He said he hoped to get people to sign up for stewardships, internships and volunteer opportunities at the DeKalb County Forest Preserve.
“We’ve got a lot of signatures so far ... for people who are interested in trying out, seeing what restoration looks like,” Coleman said.
Coleman said it can be difficult to find help.
“It’s like a consistent ebb and flow with volunteers throughout the year,
too, as people have life events happen, too.”
At the DeKalb County Forest Preserve, volunteers get hands-on experience in clearing brush and planting plugs.
“They are a godsend sometimes because we have ... plugs to plant,” Coleman said. “Tree plantings, as well.”
Marcy Prchal of Trogg’s Hollow, a family-owned-and-run microfarm doing regenerative farming in Poplar Grove, also manned a booth during the event.
“I’m blown away by the traffic and the community support,” Prchal said. “I love that it’s in collaboration with NIU.”
At Trogg’s Hollow, the Prchals raise pigs, chickens and ducks, and grow a variety of vegetables as part of a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) program that sells produce by the share to patrons on a weekly or biweekly basis. They often host events on their farm, as well as attend some of the area farmers markets.
Prchal said she’s grown excited to have community events, like DeKalb County Earth Fest, to attend.
“We had a couple [of] people buy bread,” Prchal said. “Some of them are people who are regular customers [who] will always buy more bread and say they really like it. I think they’re excited
to find out that there’s a CSA that delivered. ... So, people are excited to find out that there’s a CSA that delivers locally.”
A lot of work goes into organizing the event.
Clemens expressed appreciation to everyone who made it possible.
“We spend a whole year planning it,” she said.
When asked how they ensure that the event stays relevant and current with the times, Clemens said it is taken into account.
She said they allow space to pivot “if there’s a new urgent issue that comes up” leading up to the event.
This year, the hot-button topic of concern to some is data centers and the impact that these developments are having on communities.
In response to these concerns, Clemens suggested that people get educated and show up when the decisions are being made.
“They’re driving our energy costs,” she said.
Vendors greet attendees April 11 at the third annual DeKalb County Earth Fest held in NIU’s Founders Memorial Library in DeKalb.
Photos by Megann Horstead
Rizzo the Hawk is perched at the side of Briana Tallitsch (left) as she mingles with Jason Neurhor and Megan Neurohr (right) on April 11, at the annual DeKalb County Earth Fest in NIU’s Founders Memorial Library in DeKalb.
Metra’s $156 million construction program includes station improvements, crossing upgrades
BNSF, Rock Island
and UP Northwest lines will see much of the work
By JUDY HARVEY jharvey@shawmedia.com
Metra will be undertaking a wide scope of projects this year, including improvements to 20 stations, replacement of 22 grade crossings and three major tie replacement projects.
The 2026 construction program also includes numerous smaller infrastructure improvements across Metra’s 11 lines, the agency said in a news release.
The work will be done by Metra’s in-house crews, employees of Metra’s freight partners and private contractors.
Metra also is contributing funds for station repairs and upgrades that will be performed by a municipality or its contractors, the agency said.
Included in the 2026 capital program are:
• $32.3 million for station and parking improvements
• $37.7 million for track maintenance
• $22.3 million for bridge projects
• $5.2 million for rail crossing replacements
• $59.1 million for signal, electrical and communications maintenance and upgrades
Funding for some projects was allocated in prior years’ capital programs or came from outside sources, including municipalities and Metra’s freight partners, Metra said.
Station improvements
Improvements are planned for 20 of Metra’s 243 stations this year. Projects at another 47 stations currently are in the design process for construction in later years.
Improvements are planned for seven stations on the Rock Island Line and the Cicero and Western Springs stations on the BNSF Line.
The multi-year effort to rebuild the Chicago State/95th Street Station and
rehabilitate the South Water Street entrance to Millennium Station on the electric line will continue.
On the Rock Island Line, the project to replace the platform, rehab parking areas and build new warming shelters at 115th Street/Morgan Park Station will go forward, Metra said.
Work also will continue on the construction of a new infill station at Auburn Park (79th and Lowe), which is scheduled for completion by the end of the year.
On the BNSF Line, improvements will include the rehabilitation of the LaGrange Road Station and new platforms at Westmont, the agency said.
Work is nearing completion on the replacement of the platforms at Grayslake and Morton Grove on the Milwaukee District North Line, at Midlothian on the Rock Island Line, at Pingree Road in Crystal Lake on the UP Northwest Line and at Kedzie on the UP West Line.
Track improvements
At least 51,000 railroad ties are scheduled for replacement this year.
On the Rock Island Line, Metra forces will replace 16,562 ties between Mokena and Joliet.
At least 18,500 ties and 23,949 feet of rail between Rondout and Fox Lake on
the Milwaukee District North Line also will be replaced, Metra said.
BNSF plans to replace 16,000 ties between Hinsdale and West Eola (Aurora) and Metra, and contractors will continue infrastructure work in preparation for the installation of a fourth track on the Metra Electric Line, the agency said.
Road crossing improvements
Improvements to 22 rail crossings are planned for this year.
Five crossing replacements are planned on the Metra Electric branch lines (Ridgeland Avenue, Clyde Avenue and Chappel Avenue on the South Chicago Branch and Parnell Avenue and Normal Avenue on the Blue Island Branch).
There are six crossing replacements planned on the Rock Island Line, one on the Southwest Service and five more between the Milwaukee District North and West lines.
On the BNSF Line, road crossings will be replaced at Loomis Street in Naperville, Prospect Avenue in Clarendon Hills, and Hollywood Avenue in Riverside.
Replacements also are planned at LaGrange Road and Harlem Avenue and multiple pedestrian crossings, depending on funding availability.
Bridge projects
A major project to rebuild 11 120-yearold bridges between Fullerton Avenue and Addison Street in Chicago on the UP North Line continues.
The $337 million project also will replace 4 miles of track structure and 1.75 miles of retaining walls.
More than half of the 446 bridges on Metra-owned lines are more than a century old, and, currently, there is no dedicated federal funding program specifically for improving commuter rail bridges, Metra said.
Although funding has yet to be secured, Metra developed a 20-year plan to replace or rehabilitate 210 bridges, requiring about $3 billion in investment, the agency said.
Design is complete or almost complete on nine bridges, with 30 more bridges in the pipeline for preliminary engineering.
To minimize impacts on riders, most of the construction and improvement work for this year will be done during off-peak hours and on weekends, which could result in delays to trains during those times, Metra said. Riders should check metra.com/constructionnotices for information about how service may be impacted. Riders also can use Metra’s train tracker, available at metratracker. com, to check the status of their trains.
Mark Busch file photo
A train arrives Jan. 12, 2023, at the Elburn Metra Station.
