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ON THE COVER
A sign for Give DeKalb County, the 24-hour fundraiser that supports nonprofits across the county, sits outside the DeKalb County Community Foundation building, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, on April 25. The fundraiser is May 1. See story, page 6.
Rooted For Good lists May Grow Mobile food pantry dates
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – 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, no requirements necessary.
Rooted For Good is working 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.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
KSO to perform season finale concert May 3 in DeKalb
DeKALB – The Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra will perform a “Vive la France!” concert to conclude its 48th concert season.
The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. May 3 at the Boutell Concert Hall in the Northern Illinois University Music Building, 550 Lucinda Ave., DeKalb.
The concert, conducted by music director Linc Smelser, will feature music that celebrates France’s musical legacy. The music includes “Spanish Rhapsody” by Maurice Ravel; Hector Berlioz’s “Fantastic Symphony;” and “Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun” arranged by Claude Debussy.
PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzlesonpage17
To receive Grow Mobile alerts, text FreeGroceries to 844-727-2012.
Grow Mobile dates in May:
• 3 to 5 p.m. May 1 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. May 6 at the Clinton Township community building, 160 W. Lincoln Highway, Waterman.
• 11 a.m. to noon May 8 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• 3 to 5 p.m. May 13 at the Cortland
Lions Club Shelter, 70 S. Llanos St., Cortland.
• 3:30 to 5 p.m. May 15 at the Malta Historical and Genealogical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta.
• 3 to 5 p.m. May 20 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• 11 a.m. to noon May 22 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.
• 4 to 6 p.m. May 27 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 340 W. Arnold Road, Sandwich.
The orchestra also will participate in Give DeKalb County May 1. Patrons can donate to support the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Donations can be made online or mailed through May 1.
Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 for seniors ages 62 and older, and $8 for children ages 12 and younger and students with a valid school ID. Tickets are available at the concert or online at kishorchestra.org. For information, visit kishorchestra.org.
Ellwood House Museum to offer ‘Tea Party at Ellcourt’ program May 10
DeKALB – The Ellwood House Museum will host a “Tea Party at Ellcourt” for children and families.
The free program will be held from 10 a.m. to noon May 10 the museum’s Ellcourt House, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb. Attendees can drink beverages from antique china, complete a take-home craft and participate in Victorian party games. Registration is required; visit ellwoodhouse. org/youth-programs.
“Tea Party at Ellcourt” is the first of three monthly programs that are part of Ellwood Explorers, the Ellwood House Museum’s free youth educational series. The Ellwood Explorers is supported by the Cy Miller Foundation.
For information, visit ellwoodhouse.org/ youth-programs.
– Shaw Local News Network
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Photo by Kelsey Rettke
Kishwaukee College names new student trustee
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
MALTA – Kishwaukee College recently named Diego Gonzalez Zabala as the student trustee on the college’s board of trustees.
Gonzalez Zabala was elected to replace outgoing student trustee Aiyanna Washington.
“As the student trustee, my primary goal is to serve as a strong and passionate advocate for my peers,” Gonzalez Zabala said in a news release. “I want to ensure that the student voice is heard and valued in the decision-making processes that shape our campus so that every student continues to feel involved and appreciated in this amazing campus.”
Gonzalez Zabala is president of the business club, a National Society of Leadership and Success member, a student
services department student worker, and the Latinos Unidos marketing and public relations chair. He intends to graduate with an Associate of Arts degree in spring of 2026.
Gonzalez Zabala plans to transfer to a four-year college to study business administration with a data science minor.
Gonzalez Zabala said he intends to ensure every Kish student feels like they belong by listening closely to their concerns and helping make meaningful changes to improve student experiences.
Washington plans to graduate with an Associate of Arts degree in May. She
intends on earning a psychology degree from Northern Illinois University.
“Aiyanna has shown dedicated service as our student trustee, and we are grateful for her leadership. The Board wishes her well in her next steps,” Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees Chair Bob Johnson said in the release. “We are pleased to welcome Diego to the student trustee role and look forward to working with him.”
Washington served as Kishwaukee College’s student trustee since April 2024. Among the many initiatives accomplished during her tenure, Washington
said the development of Kish’s “all-in” tuition model, which includes fees and textbook costs in the price of tuition, is one of the most notable.
“I am most proud, in general, for being a voice for the student body. An example of a time when it really stuck out was when I was asked for my opinions on Kish’s new “all-in” tuition. There were also many other instances where students approached me with ideas or concerns, so getting to do something with those meant a lot to me,” Washington said in the release. “Overall, it was an amazing learning opportunity, and I feel like I have grown so much as a person because of the position.”
Washington also is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Black Student Union, TRIO Student Support Services and Student Government Association.
Aiyanna Washington
Diego Gonzalez Zabala
Kishwaukee Valley Art League’s 54th annual Northern Illinois Art Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 31 and June 1 on the front lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse, 133 W. State St., Sycamore. The show will feature up to 70 artisans exhibiting various fine arts and crafts.
Kishwaukee Valley Art League sets May events
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
SYCAMORE – The Kishwaukee Valley Art League will host several programs and events in May at the Gallery on State, 322 W. State St., Sycamore.
The league’s next general meeting is set for 7 p.m. May 1 at the gallery. Members will explore the theme “The Nature of Water” through their work. Artists can use various mediums including photography, 2D art and sculptures.
Also on May 1, KVAL will participate in “Give DeKalb County.” People can donate to the league to support its “Art of Giving” program. To donate, visit givedekalbcounty.org/organizations/ kval-nfp.
The group will host the Sycamore Student Art Walk beginning May 7 in the gallery’s west window. The walk features artwork created by Sycamore students. KVAL members also will display a 2D and 3D art exhibit at the gallery.
The next workshop in the Second Saturday series will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10. It will be led by KVAL artist Rick Borrett. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own supplies.
KVAL’s 54th annual Northern Illinois Art Show is set from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 31 and June 1 on the front lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse, 133 W. State St. in Sycamore. The show will feature up to 70 artisans exhibiting various fine arts and crafts mediums. For information, visit kval-nfp.org or Gallery on State.
The league’s Young Picasso kids summer art program will run from June through August. The program will feature art workshops and the Young Picasso art contest. Contest winners will receive cash prizes. For information, visit kval-nfp.org.
The featured artist of the month for May at Gallery on State is Sharon Saponari. Her work will be on display throughout the gallery.
Photo provided by Kishwaukee Valley Art League
ABOVE: U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, D-Naperville, speaks April 23 during a rally to support Northern Illinois University’s international students, faculty and staff. The event was held in front of Founders Memorial Library at NIU in DeKalb. BELOW: Supporters cheer speakers on April 23.
Underwood joins NIU rally
DeKALB – Dozens of people took part in a rally on April 23 at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, in support of international students, faculty and staff in light of the federal government’s recent spike in revocations of visas from international students across the country.
U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, D-Na-
perville, made an appearance at the rally.
The federal government earlier this month revoked visa status for five NIU students, a university spokesperson confirmed. No details have been made public about why the students lost their visas.
– Mark Busch
Photos by Mark Busch
Generosity of the community
Here’s how to donate for Give DeKalb County’s 2025 fundraiser
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
SYCAMORE – On May 1, generosity takes center stage as Give DeKalb County returns for its 12th year.
With more than $10.7 million raised to date, this countywide giving day offers multiple donation options and every contribution is boosted by the Bonus Pool, which increases the impact of each gift. Funds raised go to support local nonprofits that provide services directly to DeKalb County residents.
Donation options
• Online: May 1 from midnight to midnight at GiveDeKalbCounty.org using credit or debit card, electronic bank
transfer, or mobile pay.
• By mail: Now through May 1 download a donation form at GiveDeKalbCounty.org and mail your completed form with a check payable to “DCCF” for the total donation amount to: DeKalb County Community Foundation, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178.
• In person: May 1 donation drop-off event at the Community Foundation, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Give DeKalb County is coordinated by the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, a program of the DeKalb County Community Foundation. In 2024, Give DeKalb County attracted 8,501 donations from donors in 42 states and two countries.
“Give DeKalb County is a chance for
everyone to get involved, give back, and be part of something bigger,” DCNP Director Ben Bingle said in a news release. “It is inspiring to see so many people rally around local causes – and with multiple ways to give, it has never been easier to make a difference.”
During the in-person event, donors can bring their donation form and check to the Community Foundation, enjoy light refreshments, and watch the Give DeKalb County total grow. Those who prefer to use a donor advised fund or make a Qualified Charitable Distribution from an Individual Retirement Account should use the mail-in donation form and mailing process. Additional details are online at GiveDeKalbCounty.org/Info/Ways-to-Give.
“Each donation, regardless of size, is
amplified by the Bonus Pool,” Bingle said. “We are inspired by the generosity of DeKalb County and thank everyone who plans to participate.”
Donations made during Give DeKalb County leverage a percentage of the Bonus Pool, which is funded by generous Community Partners. A complete list of community partners and media sponsors is available at GiveDeKalbCounty.org.
The minimum online donation amount is $5, with no minimum for mailed donations. For a list of participating organizations or more information about Give DeKalb County, visit GiveDeKalbCounty.org, or contact Ben Bingle at ben@dekalbccf.org. Follow the giving day on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
It is inspiring to see so many people rally around local causes – and with multiple ways to give, it has never been easier to make a difference.”
Ben Bingle, DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership director
Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation
Give DeKalb County offers multiple donation options to support nonprofit organizations. On May 1, generosity takes center stage as Give DeKalb County returns for its 12th year.
City of DeKalb accepting Paint-A-Plug applications
encouraged to use the nation’s birthday as the theme for Paint-A-Plug creations.
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – The city of DeKalb and the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission is accepting applications for the 2025 Paint-A-Plug public art program.
Artists are encouraged to paint fire hydrants to celebrate the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary in 2026. The anniversary themes include historic figures, independence, patriotism and the nation’s cultural heritage celebrations and achievements.
Artists also can submit designs using themes that beautify DeKalb.
As the nation, state and city celebrate 250 years of independence, CCEC Chair Brad Hoey said Paint-A-Plug artists are
“I am excited that we are able to integrate the Paint-A-Plug program within DeKalb’s plans to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” Hoey said in a news release. “Our community’s namesake –Baron de Kalb – was a hero of the American Revolutionary War, and I hope local artists will embrace the opportunity to apply historical and/or patriotic themes to their public art projects over the next year.”
The program also encourages former program participants to touch up their art pieces. Fire hydrants that remain unmaintained will be returned to their original color.
The schedule a touch-up, email paintaplug@cityofdekalb.com.
Applications are available at cityofdekalb.com/paintaplug. Artists must have their hydrants painted by Nov. 1.
Photo provided by the city of DeKalb
This 2023 Paint-A-Plug project was created by Megan Flack.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Upcoming museum exhibits to be discussed at next Brown Bag
DeKALB – The May hybrid Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore series at the Ellwood House Museum will feature a sneak peek at the museum’s recently installed and upcoming exhibits.
The free program will begin at noon May 1 at the museum, 420 Linden Place in DeKalb.
Ellwood House Museum exhibitions coordinator Anna-Marie Zurlinden will discuss the development and background of the exhibits. Attendees will hear about considerations for displaying objects and when and where to view the exhibits.
The 2025 Ellwood House Exhibit Preview program is part of Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore, a free lecture series offered as a collaboration between the Ellwood House Museum and the DeKalb County History Center.
Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore is funded in part by the Mary E. Stevens Concert and Lecture Fund.
For information, visit ellwoodhouse.org/ lectures.
Kishwaukee College’s annual plant sale set for May 8-9
MALTA – Kishwaukee College will host its annual hybrid spring plant sale on May 8-9 to support its horticulture program.
The sale will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the college’s greenhouse facilities, 21193 Malta Road, Malta.
The sale will feature plants grown by horticulture students and faculty. Sale
items include perennials, herbs, hanging baskets, annuals, vegetables and potting soil. Staff and students will be available to aid shoppers and answer planting and gardening questions.
Plants can be preordered from May 2-5. They must be picked up and paid for at the sale. Accepted payment methods include credit card, cash or a check made out to Kishwaukee College. To order plants, visit kishplants.com.
For information, visit kish.edu/hortevents.
Conversations
About Migration series set for May 6 in DeKalb
DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host a program about language and communication as part of its Cross-Cutting Conversations on Migration series. The program will begin at 6:30 p.m. May 6 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
Attendees will discuss how the words used about migration may shape perceptions of newcomers. Cultural differences in communication styles can have similar effects, while a lack of fluency in English can serve as a barrier to inclusion and career advancement.
Attendees are asked to write down words from media about migration prior to the program.
Registration is required.
For information or to register, email brittak@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2100.
– Shaw Local News Network
Sunday, May 11th, 2025
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Featuring yearly favorites served buffet such as Prime Rib, Homemade Quiche, Made-to Order Omelets, a luscious Chocolate Fountain, and many other delectable options Reservations Required.
farandas.com or call (815) 981-3304 to reserve your table today.
LOOKING BACK
1925 – 100 YEARS AGO
Much interest is being taken in the coming visit of the Sveas Soner chorus of Rockford, a musical organization of 35 voices that is known as one of the best chorus organizations of the middle west. The chorus will give a concert tomorrow evening at the First Lutheran church, under the auspices of the Order of Vikings of DeKalb. The organization was organized in 1890 and has had a brilliant career. Since 1910, Gustave Ohlson has been the leader of the chorus.
Another relic of the days of early DeKalb was unearthed today when workmen digging the excavations for the proposed building on North Fourth Street and Lincoln Highway dug out an old cistern. It is thought that the wooden tank, nearly completely rotted away, was the one that was once located in the kitchen of the hotel. The kitchen was torn down several years ago, and is said to have been a wing to the north of the present building, extending to the fire station wall. There is another cistern under the present building.
Before the community swimming pool can be used it will have to be repaired, according to city officials who have been working at the pool the past few days. The pool was filled with water on Monday night, the pump having been working since early Saturday night. The bottom of the pool has several large cracks which allow the water to seep out, according to those who have been at the pool the past few days. It is more than likely that the pool will be drained again and the repairs made.
Sheriff E. E. Crawford, according to the records at the office in the courthouse has had a busy April, for the books show that he has made numerous raids, served papers of all kinds, in addition to taking care of DeKalb County prisoners, and those sent out from the federal commissioners and judges in Chicago.
Members of the Sycamore fire department are desirous of securing some other means of notifying them of the location of a fire, than the steam whistle that is now being used. It is understood that steams will not be available here all summer, and on that account some other means of
Obscene entertainment in taverns is banned in Cook County and is too much for DeKalb.
A threatened labor strike could hamper progress on several DeKalb construction projects, including the new Hopkins Park swimming pool. “A strike would kill us at the pool,” said Bob Ditamore, DeKalb Park District Director. Ditamore said pool construction is in its final stages. The pool is supposed to be complete May 26 and open June 7.
notifying the firefighters their services are needed will have to be sought.
1950 – 75 YEARS AGO
Announcement was made at Springfield by Secretary of State Edward J. Barrett that a charter had been issued for DeKalb Mid-City Auto Sales Inc., 151 N. Fourth St., DeKalb. The firm was incorporated to sell wholesale and retail motor vehicles, parts, accessories and the like, hardware, novelties, radios and the like, airplanes, farm machinery and the like, as well as all kinds of electrical devices.
Those planned cuts in mail delivery service for Sycamore will go into effect Monday morning, May 1. There will be only a single delivery to the residential sections after today, although the business district will continue to get two deliveries. Delivery trips will start about 9 o’clock in the morning instead of 8 o’clock, and the carrier will take all day to made his rounds.
There’s sadness today in the home of Dr. Edward B. Glenn, but joy in the Henry Meier home, all because of a dog. The dog which Mrs. Glenn said had returned home after a 1,900-mile hike from Edgerton, Nova Scotia, on Tuesday afternoon, turned out to be a dog which had wandered away from the home of Henry Meier, not much more than 1,900 feet away. The beautiful collie answered to both names when called, the “Tiny” which Mrs. Glenn’s dog had been
named and the “Laddie” which the Meier dog was called. The two were almost identical in appearance. The Meier children were playing with their pet again today.
Postmaster Lester Binder announces that on July 1 the Hinckley post office will be advanced from a third- to a second-class post office. The postal revenue in Hinckley increased 27% in 1949 and that is what determines the class each post office is in. The increase was more than sufficient to place Hinckley in the second-class bracket.
When Mrs. J. B. Phillips of Chicago looks at an old hat, she doesn’t see just an old hat, through the rose-colored spectacles of a milliner who views a new up-to-date creation with lines to flatter the woman who wears it. Mrs. Phillips is said to have the only portable millinery shop in captivity and will bring it to Sycamore. This is to be an audience participation program and the members and guests are invited to bring in their old millinery to be rejuvenated.
1975 – 50 YEARS AGO
An ordinance prohibiting obscene acts in taverns was approved 4-3 by the DeKalb City Council last night. Mayor Carroll Van Patter, sponsor of the legislation, warned that a “syndicate element” has made offers to buy two city taverns. Van Patter said syndicate criminals employ prostitutes and “ladies which perform acts.”
The average size of the nation’s biggest farms is declining as more and more farms crowd into the top size classes, an Agriculture Department report showed today. The report estimated that in 1960, when statisticians counted only 23,000 U.S. farms with annual sales of $100,000 and over, the average size of those farms was 4,529 acres.
2000 – 25 YEARS AGO
The Parkside Oaks townhomes, if built, will sit high and dry next to the DeKalb Park District baseball diamonds and above the flood plain of the Kishwaukee River below it. Meanwhile, rainwater that used to soak into the ground on the property, now deeply wooded and undeveloped, will run down toward the river and be held in a new retention pond the developer will build.
The DeKalb County Shriners are in Lowe’s parking lot selling bags of Vidalia onions for the annual fundraiser benefiting 22 Shriners Hospitals and three burn clinics. The Shriners, who have been selling onions for 10 years, hope to have 800 bags sold by the end of the week.
The new Genoa post office will open at 705 Pearson Drive Monday morning. Pearson Drive is .4 miles south of routes 72 and 23. There will be more parking available at the new site, 15 spaces. There is a dedicated lane for mail drop-offs.
DeKalb’s Landmark Commission and the owner of a home in the Fifth Ward Historic District will work together on a plan to maintain the 1920s look of the home even while making a significant structural alteration.
– Compiled by Sue Breese
Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives
The Swen Parson Library at Northern Illinois State Teachers College (now NIU) is under construction in this March 1942 photo looking northwest.
ABOVE: Younger visitors play April 24 at the Kids Camp during the Local Showcase and Spring Show in the Convocation Center at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. BELOW: Sha Hill, with Family Service Agency, talks to attendees at their booth.
Spring is in the air at DeKalb Chamber’s Local Showcase
DeKALB – The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce hosted the Local Showcase and Spring Show Thursday in the Convocation Center at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.
The event featured more than 100 local businesses with informational booths and activities for attendees.
– Mark Busch
DURING
Thursday, May 1st
Photos by Mark Busch
DeKalb County Habitat for Humanity receives $60K grant
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County Community Foundation has awarded a three-year grant totaling $60,000 to Habitat for Humanity of DeKalb County’s Home Preservation Program, to support various projects within DeKalb Township.
“The Community Foundation is proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity of DeKalb County on this Home Preservation project to benefit residents of DeKalb Township,” Community Engagement Manager Kristin Peska said in a news release.
Funding is provided by the Howard and Mildred Eychaner Fund, a Field of Interest fund at the foundation dedicated to supporting health care and affordable housing initiatives in DeKalb Township.
The grant is part of the community engagement work of the Community Foundation, a board-directed effort aimed at creating lasting, positive change in DeKalb County. Through community engagement, the foundation allocates resources to address critical challenges and supports for -
ward-thinking solutions that enhance residents’ lives.
The Home Preservation Program provides essential services to qualified homeowners.
“DeKalb County families and seniors with limited incomes struggle to maintain their homes,” Habitat for Humanity of DeKalb County Executive Director Kim McIver said in the release.
“They face costly repairs and modifications vital to their health, safety and comfort. Without support, these challenges can put homeownership at risk.
Habitat’s Home Preservation Program offers a range of services to qualified homeowners – from new roofs and accessibility ramps to fresh coats of paint – to keep them in their homes, protecting affordable homeownership where it exists.”
For more information about the DeKalb Township Home Preservation Program, visit h4hdcil.com or call the Habitat for Humanity DeKalb County office at 815-991-5341.
For more information about proactive grant opportunities at the Community Foundation, contact Kristin Peska at k.peska@dekalbccf.org or 815-7485383.
If you’ve been considering it, now is the perfect time to secure your spot!
This is a unique opportunity to experience the personalized care, exceptional staffing, and variety of activities and entertainment Oak Crest residents enjoy daily!
For over 40 years, Oak Crest has been the premier Senior Living and Long-term Care Community in DeKalb County. Our 5-Star rated Mildred & Howard Eychaner Health Center has provided unparalleled care and hospitality to Oak Crest residents for decades.
Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation Habitat for Humanity of DeKalb County representatives receive a $60,000 DeKalb County Community Foundation grant.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
‘In My Shoes’ art showcase set for May 14 in Sycamore SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County Mental Health Board and the Living Room at Ben Gordon Center will host the second annual “In My Shoes: Art for Hope and Healing from Mental Illness” art showcase in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month.
The free event will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. May 14 at Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St., Sycamore.
Participants can share their mental illness journey. The event will feature artwork, poetry, songs and spoken word. Resources for people seeking support also will be provided.
Art submissions are being accepted through May 1. To submit a piece, email BGCEvents@nm.org.
DeKalb library to host VHS conversion workshop May 3
DeKALB – Teens and adults can learn how to convert VHS tapes to DVDs at a DeKalb Public Library workshop. The workshop will be held at 1:30 p.m. May 3 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. No registration is required.
For information, email patrickc@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2115.
Parkinson’s support group to meet May 7 in DeKalb
DeKALB – A meeting of the DeKalb County Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will feature a presentation by Dr. Padmaja Vittal, M.D.
The meeting will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. May 7 at First Lutheran Church, 324 N. Third St., DeKalb.
Vittal will discuss the latest Parkinson’s disease information and developments and answer questions. She works as a neurologist and movement disorder specialist at Central DuPage Hospital. For information, email snak974@ comcast.net.
DeKalb library to offer sewing machine maintenance workshop
DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host a workshop on sewing machine maintenance.
The program will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. May 4 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. Participants can learn how to clean and
service their tabletop sewing machine, and some basic functions. Attendees must bring the sewing machine, manual, parts and cords. Those missing their manuals can fill out contact cards to find a PDF. Due to limited space, attendees can service their machine and leave when finished.
For information, email emilyk@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2150.
DeKalb Park District cleanup events planned
DeKALB – The DeKalb Park District will host two events for volunteers to help clean and beautify DeKalb parks.
The Great Garlic Mustard Hunt is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. May 3 at the Nature Trail, 2061 Sycamore Road in DeKalb.
The Sock the Rocket cleanup will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. June 7 at the trail. Attendees will help remove garlic mustard and dame’s rocket. Participants must bring gloves. Park district staff will provide cleanup tools and guidance. Volunteers can meet at the intersection of Greenwood Acres Drive and Greenwood North.
No registration is required.
For information, visit dekalbparkdistrict. com or call 815-758-6663.
Singer-songwriter David Rudolf to perform May 3 in DeKalb
DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host a British Invasion concert featuring award-winning singer and songwriter David Rudolf.
The concert will be held at 2 p.m. May 3 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
For information, email samanthah@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1701.
Learn about kitbashing at the DeKalb Library
DeKALB – Learn about the art of kitbashing during a program May 4 at the DeKalb Public Library.
The program will be held from 2 to 4:30 p.m. in the library’s 309 Creative room, 309 Oak St.
Kitbashing is the art of creating a 3D model from pre-existing model pieces.
No registration is required.
For information, email techdesk@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2851.
– Shaw Local News Network
OBITUARIES
ROBERT “BOB” NELSON
Born: December 9, 1935
Died: April 18, 2025
Robert “Bob” Nelson, last of the Nelson brothers, age 89, of DeKalb, formerly of Maple Park and Lily Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, entering Heaven, Friday, April 18, 2025
He was born in Geneva, IL, on December 9, 1935, the second son of Carl and Ethel (Swanson) Nelson.
He regretfully leaves his loving wife of 68 years, Carol; 3 children: Pam (Jim) Schramer, Randy (Angela) Nelson, and Ken (Kate) Nelson; 8 grandchildren: Wes (Abbey) Schramer, Brent (Meghan) Schramer, Mindy (Austin) McCrea, Grant Nelson, Carl Nelson, Miranda Nelson, Brandon Nelson and Rosemary Nelson; 8 great-grandchildren: Eli McCrea, Elise McCrea,
Aleda Schramer, Henry Schramer, Arthur Schramer, Capri Schramer, Fiona Schramer and Calvin Schramer; two sisters-in-laws: Louise Nelson (Doug) and Cheryl Nelson (Dan); two cousins, many nieces, nephews and a countryside full of friends in Illinois and Wisconsin. He is reunited with his parents, Carl and Ethel Nelson; 3 brothers: Ronald, Dan, and Doug Nelson who preceded him in death.
Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Friday, April 25, 2025, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Additional visitation will be from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, April 26, 2025, followed by a funeral service to celebrate his life at Grace Lutheran Church, 5N600 Hanson Rd. St. Charles, IL (actually in the town of Lily Lake). Interment will follow at Lily Lake Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Bob’s name. Checks may be made to the “Robert C. Nelson Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home Facebook Page, or at www.conleycare.com
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WM celebrates $60M renewable natural gas facility
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – Waste Management marked Earth Day last week with a ribbon-cutting on its new $60 million renewable natural gas facility, 18370 Somonauk Road, DeKalb.
Facility tours, public remarks, networking and a ribbon-cutting were among some of the highlights of the event.
Brian Snyder, director of operations at WM renewable energy, said it’s an exciting time for the waste hauling company.
“The exciting thing about this whole situation is that the collection truck goes out and collects the trash from each person’s home,” Snyder said. “It comes to the landfill and it turns into a gas through natural breakdown. And to make sure that we stay compliant and do the best thing for the community, we
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capture that gas and turn it into an energy of some sort.”
The DeKalb renewal natural gas facility has been in the works for several years, project leaders said.
Snyder said he will be excited for the facility to open its doors in the coming weeks.
The new renewable natural gas plant, once complete, will make for the eighth of 20 facilities across North America operated by WM, project leaders said.
“It takes about three years to design, get everything lined up, engineered, so that you can start to build it,” Snyder said. “It takes about eight to 10 months to construct.”
The plant is expected to generate about 1 million MMBtu – a unit of measure to record the amount of energy required to heat water – per year of renewable natural gas. The gas can then be used by communities as a lower-emission energy source, according to WM. The facility also makes for part of WM’s broader planned investments in renewable energy, expected to grow to approximately $1.6 billion by 2026.
Tara Hemmer, chief sustainability
officer for WM, said the waste hauler has listened to its customers and strives to be responsive to their interests.
“This is really because it’s what our customers want, and it is about evolving our sustainability and environmental footprint,” Hemmer said.
At 4,000 standard cubic feet per minute, the DeKalb facility is a standard design for WM, which Snyder said is viewed as a positive.
The company runs similar facilities as large as 8,000 SCFM, he said.
“By having a standard design makes it very cost effective, very efficient for our employees and very safe,” Snyder said.
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Director James Jennings pointed to the impact the new plant will have on DeKalb residents.
“This project will affect people throughout the community, up to 11,500 homes’ electricity based on this project,” Jennings said. “It will have the effect of reducing as many as 53,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Both of those outcomes directly align to the state’s ambitious energy climate agenda hence why we view [WM] as an excellent partner in this arena.”
Since 2019, the IEPA has invested more than $350 million in renewable energy initiatives while partnering with state agencies, private entities and other
This project will affect people throughout the community, up to 11,500 homes’ electricity based on this project. It will have the effect of reducing as many 53,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Both of those outcomes directly align to the state’s ambitious energy climate agenda hence why we view [WM] as an excellent partner in this arena.”
James Jennings, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency director
organizations to ensure that resources are effectively employed.
Jennings said the IEPA stands in support of the waste hauler’s new initiative.
“Collectively projects like this and other similar items the agency has supported will improve Illinois residents’ quality of life while minimizing utility costs,” Jennings said.
DeKalb County Board Chairman
John Frieders gave kudos to project leaders for their commitment to investing in the area.
“As a 50-year resident of DeKalb County and a lifelong farmer, I think that agriculture was at the forefront of sustainability before sustainability was a buzzword,” Frieders said. “I find it heartwarming that [WM] has embraced this project. It does my soul good to see something like this come on line. I think it is great for DeKalb County. I think it is a testament to WM’s vision.”
Snyder touted WM’s ability to keep the project’s labor local.
“We’ve used about nine local contractors and almost 100 local tradespeople to build this facility,” Snyder said. “It’s very exciting to be able to show off what we’ve built over time and then, of course, to operate this facility, which is about ready to get going here in the next couple weeks. We’ll be in full production. We have about four full-time employees in this building. They are local employees that we’ve hired just for this facility.”
Hemmer shared that sentiment.
“When we invest in facilities like this, we are creating brand-new green-collar jobs,” Hemmer said. “These are jobs that deliver on sustainability, deliver on innovation and deliver on the promise of a new future.”
The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the grand reopening of Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois. Chamber staff, board and community members, and ambassadors marked the occasion with a ribbon-cutting on March 27. Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois, 1037 S. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb, is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for people to enhance their lives. For information, visit goodwillni.org or call 815-756-4200.
Photo provided by the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce
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