Office hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday
SUBSCRIBER SERVICES
866-979-1053
subscriptions@shawsuburban.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
Editor Emily Ayers
815-526-4411 eayers@shawmedia.com
The Midweek and ShawLocal.com are a division of Shaw Media.
All rights reserved. Copyright 2025
ON THE COVER
Lillian Welch, 4, from Davis Junction, has some fun in the water June 24 at the splash pad at Welsh Park in DeKalb.
SYCAMORE – The Sycamore Chamber of Commerce has relaunched its women’s group, meant to foster community and build supportive networks.
Newly renamed “The Inner Circle,” the group will kick off with an event on July 31 at Blumen Gardens, 403 Edwards St. in Sycamore.
Ashlee Weaver, the Chamber’s member services administrator, said she believes it’s been more than half a decade since the group’s former iteration, Kishwaukee Women’s Network, met.
Weaver said she thinks there’s local demand for the revamped women’s group.
“We kept hearing from women in the community that they were really craving that sort of connection, and something more meaningful beyond just your typical exchanging of businesses cards,” Weaver said.
As someone who runs multiple monthly business groups for the Sycamore Chamber, Weaver said she thinks women in the Sycamore and greater DeKalb County area have missed having a space that felt welcoming and supportive.
The Inner Circle’s first event will run from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Blumen Gardens.
ANSWERS puzzlesonpage19
Reservations are required; the fee is $25 for the public and $10 for Chamber members. Guests are asked to RSVP by July 25, according to a Sycamore Chamber of Commerce social media post.
Weaver said Chamber officials wanted the name for the new women’s group to be personal and inviting, while still being bold.
She said the name of the group, The Inner Circle, is meant to speak to commu-
nity, trust and a feeling of being a part of something larger than oneself.
The Inner Circle, Weaver said, is open to all women, no matter their career phase, background or industry. She hopes the new group will be something previous women’s groups haven’t been.
“I think relaunching the group gave us a chance to kind of reimagine what a women’s group can be in modern society today,” Weaver said.
Accuracy is important to The MidWeek. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411 or email at readit@midweeknews.com.
Photo by Mark Busch
Mark Busch file photo
The Sycamore Chamber of Commerce’s relaunched women’s group, The Inner Circle, will host a kickoff event on July 31 at Blumen Gardens, 403 Edwards St. in Sycamore.
Blooms and beauty on display at Garden Walk July 12
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – The University of Illinois Extension DeKalb County Master Gardeners will host its 16th annual garden walk to showcase various gardening styles.
The garden walk will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 12 in DeKalb, Genoa and Sycamore.
The walk features self-guided tours of seven private gardens and one museum garden. Participants also can tour the first floor of two historic homes. Attendees are encouraged to leave pets at home. A Boutique of Garden Treasures also will be held at the Ellwood House Museum. Participants can donate to receive gently used garden items.
The featured gardens include:
• Ellwood House Museum gardens: The Ellwood House Museum gardens are used for weddings. The house terrace is framed by two garden beds named “Wedding Garden.” The beds feature shrubs, peonies, marigolds, petunia, and black-eyed susans. A “Butterfly Garden” that includes native plants to
maintain pollinators is located by the water tower. The Nehring House’s “Arts and Crafts Berg Garden” features flower beds casting a sunbeam path between
the walkways and lawn.
• Zang garden: The Zang garden is designed for visitors to relax and take in the area. The garden includes trees,
shrubs, shade and sun perennials, a bench repurposed from old doors, and garden art. The property also acts as a haven for birds, rabbits, squirrels and pollinators.
• Stran garden: The Stran garden is located on a former greenhouse and nursery. It features a collection of beech, ginko, evergreen and ornamental trees. The landscape was designed to include year-round color using various cottage-style perennials with annual accents.
• Cleven garden: The Cleven garden is inspired by the house. It includes a mix of flowers flowing from one side of the house to the other. The garden also demonstrates how small city lots can provide gardeners a palette.
• Whittenhall garden: The Whittenhall garden repurposes whimsical items as pots, trellises and walkways. Shade and sun-loving plants also border the house and property perimeter.
• Larson garden: The Larson garden includes a front yard brass armillary sphere and a backyard waterfall and pond. The property also features native
See GARDEN WALK, page 5
$50 ticket price includes:
• Commemorative cup (limited supply)
• Complimentary first beverage and a cash bar with specialty cocktail, wine, beer, soft drinks.
• Tasty appetizers.
• Yard games
• Live music by “Craig Mathey and Friends”
• Silent auction/raffle items
• Tour the exhibit, “FOOD: Gathering Around the Table”
On-site parking is free. Purchase your tickets online at the DeKalb County History Center. For more information, scan the QR code or visit, dekalbcountyhistory.org
DeKalb County History Center 1730 N Main St. • Sycamore, IL
Photo provided by the University of Illinois Extension
The Ellwood House Museum gardens in DeKalb will be featured at the 2025 DeKalb County Master Gardeners’ Garden Walk on July 12.
DeKalb bans certain drug sales despite opposition
“It’s not enough,” Malek said. “It’s not enough to protect the health of my children.”
THC is the main psychoactive ingredient found in cannabis plants. Kratom is an herbal substance that produces both stimulant and opioid effects.
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – DeKalb city leaders banned vape vending machines and the sale of unregulated THC and the stimulant kratom, although some business owners recently argued prohibition would harm sales and was unfair because of the growing legal cannabis industry.
But elected officials in turn said that legal cannabis use is better regulated on the market for safety and to prevent selling the mind-altering drug to minors.
Shabbona resident Nicole Malek said she’s concerned as a parent of a 15-yearold son and a 17-year-old son whom she alleged were able to buy tobacco products underage at a convenience store and a gas station in town. She said she doesn’t believe municipal fines are enough to deter illegal sales.
And despite city action this month, no vape vending machines exist in DeKalb. It’s not clear how many local stores, if any, sell kratom.
“I don’t have a count on the number of stores that were selling Kratom but the product is advertised on store windows, and the gentlemen who protested the shutdown of kratom at the June 23 meeting acknowledged its local sales,” City Manager Bill Nicklas said.
Nicklas spoke of the June 23 DeKalb City Council meeting, where some attended holding signs to protest the drug ban.
As of August 2024, the FDA recommends against kratom use for any medical treatment or as a dietary supplement, citing risk of illness or injury. Kraton cannot be marketed as a dietary supplement and cannot be added to conventional foods, according to the FDA. Some who attended the meeting opposed the ban, saying they fear for the life of small businesses. A handful of attendees held signs that read “Same plant, different treatment” and “We are legal until you decide we are not.”
Hatem Moshim, owner of Rocky’s Mini Market, 817 W. Lincoln Highway, said he was concerned about the ban restricting potential sales at his business. Moshim declined a request for further comment from Shaw Local News Network.
“I have kids, too,” Moshim said during the meeting. “I have family. ... I’m good with the law. Some cities, they pass the law. Some cities, they do not. I’m with the law.”
Among the reasons some business owners argued against the ban on THC or hemp byproducts is because they said similar restrictions don’t exist for other businesses, such as cannabis dispensaries.
But at least one DeKalb dispensary owner said business isn’t doing that well anyway.
Excelleaf Dispensary owner Maria Davis said their start-up operation has yet to turn a profit after about one year in business.
“Instead of taking a profit, we want to reinvest and build our spaces like this and also build out a network of
Mark Busch
Hatem Moshim, owner of Rocky’s Mini Market, 817 W. Lincoln Highway, speaks June 23 about how amending the city code to prohibit the sale of illicit THC products and kratom within DeKalb could hurt small businesses during the City Council meeting at the DeKalb Public Library.
• GARDEN WALK
Continued from page 3
Illinois trees and plants attracting various pollinators and wildlife.
• Doherty garden: The Doherty garden features plants that attract various bird, bee and butterfly species. The front garden, known as “the Emerald Isle,” includes hostas and a three-tiered fountain for bird baths. The property also features a green space with wrought iron lounge chairs and various paths lined with hydrangea and tiger lilies.
• Bradac garden: The Bradac garden is designed as a woodland setting co-existing with a prairie area. The property features a front yard pond and oak forest. The garden includes a fire pit, repurposed farm implements, a vegetable garden, chandelier, a sand box repurposed as bee hives and ceramic yard art pieces. The property also is visited by wildlife including deer.
Wristbands for the event are required and cost $10. They are available online at go.illinois.edu/2025GardenWalk or at
• VAPE VENDING
Continued from page 4
communities so that when that point comes, we will be able to take part of it,” Davis said.
That’s one of the reasons Davis said Excelleaf Dispensary, 305 E. Locust St., has sought to expand its offerings to consumers. Earlier this year, Davis and her co-owners asked for city approval to offer edible cannabis tastings. They pitched it as a chance for customers to sample products, excluding smokeable ones, safely before purchase.
A tasting room hasn’t yet opened at the dispensary, though owners said they plan to after a final city vote at the July 7 meeting of the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission.
NuEra Cannabis CEO Bob Fitzsimmons applauded the City for taking steps to rein in the sale of hemp.
Much like Excelleaf Dispensary, NuEra Cannabis, 818 W. Lincoln Highway, had representatives attend the recent Council meeting. He spoke about the ban in a follow-up statement to Shaw Local.
“These operators undermine everything Illinois has fought for in establishing a safe, legal cannabis system,” Fitzsimmons said in a statement. “They are subject to no safety standards, often sell products contaminated with pesticides, mold, and other dangerous toxins, contribute nothing to state or local budgets,
Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St. in Sycamore; The Garden Market, 2270 Oakland Drive in Sycamore; Glidden Florist, 917 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb; or at the DeKalb County University of Illinois Extension office, 1350 W. Prairie Drive in Sycamore.
and – most concerningly – are frequently accessible to children, as we heard from concerned parents at the hearing.”
Some on the City Council, which voted unanimously in favor of the bans, said dispensaries often offer a safe chance for consumers to learn more about products before purchase.
Seventh Ward Alderman John Walker said it was easy for him to back the city’s ban on hemp-based THC and kratom sales.
“We got a dispensary who does it the right way,” Walker said. “If you got a problem with something or you don’t know about something, guess what they do? You sit there. They talk to you. They tell you the pros and cons.”
Second Ward Alderwoman Barb Larson said she’s not sold on the promise of an unregulated market for the drugs.
“I don’t disregard that there aren’t benefits or there aren’t effects, but if there are, then it’s going to be regulated,” Larson said. “It can’t be sold out of a jar at a gas station. It just can’t.”
DeKalb joined a growing list of communities this week in banning both THC and kratom sales that includes Naperville, Rolling Meadows, Waukegan, Highland Park, Orland Park and more.
Fourth Ward Alderman Justin Carlson said he supports the ban.
“It has to be this way,” Carlson said. “That way, kids will be better. That way, we can do this the right way rather than the wrong way. Learn from the past is all I’m saying.”
‘I love to Read’ Magic Show
Saturday, Jul y 19th @ 10:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.
Yusunas Meeting Room, for kids
Photo provided by the University of Illinois Extension The Cleven family garden will be featured in the 2025 DeKalb County Master Gardeners Garden Walk on July 12.
Summer fun in DeKalb County
DeKalb County area residents found ways last week to beat the heat. As summer sizzles, there are many ways to enjoy free splash pads and other recreation in the community.
– Mark Busch
Photos by Mark Busch
TOP LEFT: The thermometer reads 92 degrees on June 24 as traffic drives by the FNBO on Lincoln Highway in DeKalb. TOP RIGHT: Visitors enjoy the water fountains June 24 at the splash pad at Welsh Park in DeKalb. ABOVE: Luka Martinez (left), 4, of DeKalb is splashed by his brother Adrian, 2, on June 24 at the Splash Fountain Splashpad at the Sycamore Park District Community Center. LEFT: Adrian Martinez, 2, of DeKalb, gets ready to be hit with some water June 24.
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – The curtain rises on a bit of Shakespearean mischief with a silver screen twist when Stage Coach Players open their summer production of “Shakespeare in Hollywood” on July 17.
The fast-paced comedy will run for two weeks at the Stage Coach Theatre, 126 S. Fifth St., DeKalb.
Written by Ken Ludwig (“Lend Me a Tenor”), “Shakespeare in Hollywood” reimagines what happens when Oberon and Puck – the mischievous fairies from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” – accidentally find themselves on the set of a 1934 Hollywood film adaptation of the same play. With movie stars, studio executives, and classic film personalities in the mix, chaos and comedy ensue.
Directed by Josh Smith, the production features Ryan Washabaugh as Oberon and Charlotte Zakosek as Puck,
with a colorful supporting cast including Leigh Foulk (Olivia Darnell), Steve Wright (Max Reinhardt), Steve Sturm (Jack Warner), Lori Lay (Lydia Lansing), Korey Miller (Daryl), Chris Porterfield (Will Hays), Tracey Valencia (Louella Parsons), Andrew Belshan (Dick Powell), Rowan Ellis (Jimmy Cagney) and Ryan Read (Joe E. Brown).
“I hope audiences leave reminded that we are all, indeed, just flickering shadows with curious minds and full hearts,” Washabaugh said in a news release.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. July 17-19 and July 25-26, with matinee performances at 2 p.m. July 20 and 27.
Tickets cost $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and children ages 12 and younger. Reserve online at stagecoachplayers.com or call the box office at 815758-1940.
For more information, visit stagecoachplayers.com.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Citizen archivist workshop set for July 13 in DeKalb
DeKALB – Residents can learn how to become a citizen archivist during a workshop at the DeKalb Public Library. The workshop will begin at 1:30 p.m. July 13 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
Participants can transcribe documents including Revolutionary War pension files and patents issued to Thomas Edison. Laptops will be provided. The workshop is first come, first served. For information, email brittak@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2100. – Shaw Local News Network
Kish nursing student awarded Lifelong Learning Award
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
MALTA – Kishwaukee College nursing student Tasha Kimble recently was awarded a Lifelong Learning Award by the Illinois Community College Trustees Association.
The award was presented during the association’s annual convention June 6 in Normal, according to a news release.
“Once the kids were older and moving out of the house, I saw it was my time,” Kimble said. “I did not want to do menial jobs anymore. I had made up my mind: I was going back to nursing school.”
The award celebrates Illinois community college students’ accomplishments.
Kimble completed the college’s registered nursing program and earned an Associate in Applied Science degree in May. She received a high school equivalency and certified nursing assistant and occupational therapy assistant certifications. Kimble transferred to a four-year university to study nursing. She switched to a community health degree. Kimble worked in various health care roles for 20 years.
She learned about the Kishwaukee College registered nursing program through family and local nurses’ recommendations. Kimble was accepted into
the registered nursing program in fall 2023.
“It was the most blessed letter I have ever received. I gave up everything just to go back to nursing school,” Kimble said. “At Kish, the resources are everywhere you go to help you with what you want to accomplish.”
Kimble’s instructors noted her positivity and dedication as she balanced school, work and home life.
“I am amazed every day at the level of perseverance Tasha shows,” Kishwaukee College nursing retention and recruitment coordinator Tara Tobias said in the release. “I returned to nursing school later in life and understand the complexity it brings while simultaneously trying to be a caregiver and a mother. Tasha always presents a positive attitude regardless of the obstacles before her and will spend hours supporting her peers in learning course content.”
Kimble plans to major in nursing and work as an obstetrics nurse. She also plans to earn a graduate degree and teach college-level nursing.
Kimble is the third Kishwaukee College recipient of the award. The award also went to JoEllen Kile in 2020 and Minerva Sandoval in 2023.
For information, visit kish.edu/adultlearners.
YOUNG PICASSO’S
KID’S SUMMER ART PROGRAM JUNE
School is out! Are you wondering what to do this summer?
Stop in at the KVAL Gallery on State in downtown Sycamore and do some artwork for a chance to win a prize.
Create an original piece of art and leave it at the gallery on display. At the end of summer, 2 winners in each of 3 age groups will be selected and monetary awards will be presented at a special reception.
Or if you want we have some great art subjects for you to color. These, however, will not be judged for awards.
A table with art supplies will be set up in the gallery during the hours of 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, Tuesday through Saturday.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
There will be an artist there to get you started.
A big THANK YOU to our sponsor KUNES Auto for supporting your Kids Summer Art Program, FREE of change to you! Let’s get creative this summer!
Photo provided by Kishwaukee College Illinois Community College Trustees Association president-elect Patricia Murphy (left) presents a Lifelong Learning Award to Kishwaukee College nursing student Tasha Kimble..
LOOKING BACK
1925 – 100 YEARS AGO
Certain people in this city who have been in the practice of spending the weekend in Aurora, participating of the intoxicating liquor that seems to flow easily in the Kane County city, will regret to hear that the places of ill-fame will be raided. The raids will be conducted under the supervision of the newly organized “Aurora Civic Betterment Committee,” as investigators for this committee have found 53 places in Aurora where laws relating to prohibition, gambling or prostitution have been violated in the last six weeks.
The burglar alarm that runs directly from the First National bank to the police station was accidentally set off yesterday, a few minutes before three o’clock, by a telephone man at work in the basement. The big gong at the station rang a few minutes before three o’clock and Mayor J. B. Lindstrom, Judge John M. Blair and Desk Sergeant Riddell picked up firearms and started for the banking institution. Reaching a point opposite the bookkeeping department, the police failed to see anyone with his hands in the air and an investigation began. It was then learned the telephone man in the basement has accidentally caused the big gong to ring.
For use in unloading many cars of gravel that will be shipped to Malta for use on the roads in that vicinity by the county, a large clamshell unloading machine is in the railroad yards at the neighboring town, ready for work. The machine was borrowed from a firm at Aurora and will be given a thorough tryout by County Superintendent of Highways, A. R. Russell. The material to be used on the roads in that vicinity is being shipped in, as it will prove much cheaper in many ways. Gravel from the county’s pit means a long hall as well as other added expenses and thus the decision of the county to buy gravel. When Mr. Russell completes his work in that vicinity, there will be about six miles of greatly improved road.
Workmen for the DeKalb County telephone company are busy this week removing lines and poles along the Sycamore-DeKalb Road that the grading may be started for the pavement work. There
Health to “work with the DeKalb County Medical Society to make sure that all children in the county are immunized” against disease.
The sagging overhead power lines and railroad tracks between rows of red brick no longer are visible on the streets, but the tell-tale section of brick on North 13th street between Pleasant and Lewis streets stand as a reminder of the trolley cars that used to operate in DeKalb.
are several Bell company poles and wires that are to be changed, the wires being transferred to the county poles and the Bell poles removed.
1950 – 75 YEARS AGO
Announcement was made by Secretary of State Edward J. Barrett at Springfield that a charter was issued for the Culligan Soft Water Service, Inc. There will be 500 shares of common stock having a par value of $100. Harold J. Gressens, Ina L. Gressens and Herbert L. Gresesns were incorporators. The corporation deals in and with water conditioning units of all kinds.
Carl Swanson, Jr., of Sycamore was host to the Flying Farmers at a Fly-in breakfast held at the Sycamore Airport Sunday morning, June 25. Breakfast was served to more than a hundred flying farmers and their families. Due to the heavy fog, many came by automobile. Prizes in the spot landing contest were won by Frank Snyder of Kirkland, Bob Bresson of West Brooklyn, and Wayne Lucas of Kingston.
Work on the South Malta Road bridge across the Kishwaukee River is moving at a fast pace. Excavation on the west bank of the river has been completed, the piles driven and workmen today were busy setting up the forms for the concrete piers on that side. Attempts are being made to complete all the heavy work possible on the west side while the big crane is still
over there. It will be necessary for the river to go down considerably before it will reach normal summer levels, but it is not high enough to interfere with any of the operations. The crew has been increased to seven or eight men now and that work is progressing very well.
That sidetrack leading to the Cyclone Fence Company certainly has one of the worst crossings in DeKalb on Pleasant Street. Don’t know whether it is owned by the North Western or the Great Western, but the north side of that crossing is a mess, almost wrenches the wheel from your hands. Mr. North or Mr. Great should get busy and fix it before somebody gets hurt and files a damage suit.
Among the names which go down in history for accomplishments in the westward migration from New England is that of Joseph F. Glidden, who is described as an inventor who “made barbed wire from a coffee grinder.” The Glidden story is history for DeKalb, since the inventor of barbed wire completed his work here, and laid the foundation for a huge business which is still being carried on in the manufacture of barbed wire.
1975 – 50 YEARS AGO
Mass immunizations for pre-school age children, conducted at the schools, may not be dead in DeKalb County after all. DeKalb County Board committee last night unanimously approved a carefully worked resolution urging the Board of
Artists from four states came to the shaded lawn of Ellwood House Sunday to display their works at the third annual arts and crafts fair. The “Art at Ellwood” show attracted more than 4,000 people before a steady downpour forced a premature folding up of shops. The blacksmith shop and the newly opened basement were a huge success.
2000 – 25 YEARS AGO
It was 11:30 p.m. Friday, well past the bed time for your typical 8- to 12-year-old. But on Friday night, scores of such children, and many even younger were up and about in DeKalb. Not only were these kids staying up late, they were doing so with the blessing of parents and grandparents. Nearly 300 people lined up Saturday for the 12:01 a.m. opening of the Junction Book Store, 822 W. Lincoln Highway. The reason: Saturday was the first day of sales for the fourth in the series of Harry Potter books, titled “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.”
A tour of the new County Farm Woods Preserve site Thursday night brought out a group of neighbors and conservationists who are concerned about the loss of trees and open space, but also appreciative of the county’s conservations efforts. Forest Preserve District Director Terry Hannan conducted the public outing at the request of the local affiliate of Sierra Club, the Kishwaukee Solducs. Hannan identified for the group the area that had been slated for development that will now become part of the new preserve, thanks to the developer’s willingness to alter its original building “footprint” at the request of the county board’s Forest Preserve Committee.
– Compiled by Sue Breese
Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives
The Daily Chronicle building and Whitney’s Standard Station in DeKalb are pictured before the station’s 1940 remodel.
Fundraising group DeKalb Barb Boosters dissolves
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – The DeKalb Barb Boosters no longer will serve as the fundraising arm of DeKalb School District 428 athletics, an announcement by its members said last week.
The Boosters group was dissolved effective June 30, its members said in a social media post.
“While we’re sad to close this chapter, we’re incredibly proud of the years spent supporting DeKalb athletics,” the announcement read.
Laura Powell, a DeKalb resident who most recently served as the board’s president, said the primary reason was due to vacancies on the board, and no one stepping up to fill them.
The board had three members – president, vice president and secretary –
The board solicited replacements to fill vacancies in several ways, including emails, social media communications and word of mouth at in-person events.
But Powell said community interest in the board has been waning.
“We had a steady drop-off in attendance and volunteers, even just people showing up to meetings,” she said. “We did what we could to try and make it easy for people to show up. We added a virtual option where people could join via Google Meet and we did have a few people join that way. But ultimately this year, we have one to two attendees per meeting outside of our board.”
Powell said the district is aware of what’s been going on with DeKalb Barb Boosters.
who stayed through the end of the school year. The treasurer resigned in December 2024.
“We announced the vacancies earlier
in the school year and let our members know that without somebody stepping up to take over those roles, we wouldn’t be able to continue,” Powell said.
“I’ve had several conversations with Athletic Director Peter Goff and he worked with me to try and find a solution ahead of yesterday’s end of fiscal year,” Powell said. “He’s still working behind the scenes to see if there’s some way to reignite the Barb Boosters. I don’t know if that’s going to happen or
Mark Busch file photo
The DeKalb Barb Boosters no longer will serve as the fundraising arm of DeKalb School District 428 athletics, an announcement by its members said last week. The group traditionally helped raised funds at the annual FNBO Challenge (seen here in January).
30 at 126 S. Fourth St. in DeKalb.
Sal’s Jiu Jitsu and Grappling moves to expanded gym space in DeKalb
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – After two-and-a-half years in Sycamore, Sal’s Jiu Jitsu and Grappling has packed up and moved its gym to an expanded space in downtown DeKalb.
On June 29, Sal’s Jiu Jitsu and Grappling hosted its first open mat at the new location, 126 S. Fourth St., Unit C, DeKalb.
Coach Ryan Salisbury, who runs and operates the gym, said the gym’s membership greatly benefits from the new space.
“We outgrew our last place,” Salisbury said. “We definitely had to move. I think we have exactly 50 members right now. I really think that we were stuck ... for a little while because the space we were in was so small, but now we’ve doubled our mat space.”
At 2,400 square feet, the new location provides more room for athletes and enthusiasts to train. The previous space only had 900 square feet.
New to the gym is a strength and conditioning area.
Athletes and enthusiasts also will find new fitness tools at their disposal in the gym, including a squat rack, cardio and conditioning equipment, and more.
Salisbury said he is looking to set the right tone in the new space.
Along one of the walls in the new space, there is a mural with the gym’s slogan, which reads, “Train Hard, Be Kind.”
“Anything you need to get swole and good fighting shape, we offer it now,” Salisbury said. “It’s pretty surreal because this is something I’ve wanted to do ever since I started doing jiu jitsu. I wanted to open a borderline world-class gym and that’s what we’re kind of on the verge of. It all depends on who wants to
come in and work hard.”
Salisbury said jiu jitsu will always be central to what the gym offers – even as it has added Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing and MMA – but he’s looking to expand further.
Salisbury said Brazilian jiu jitsu has long held a special place in his world.
“I weighed 450 pounds when I started Brazilian jiu jitsu and I’ve lost well over 100 pounds, 150 pounds,” Salisbury said. “It’s really a good thing. It’s good for people to stay in shape. It’s a great way for people to meet, to develop a sense of community, camaraderie.”
Salisbury said he’s long wondered why there’s no place to train in jiu jitsu in the area.
About 2½ years ago, Salisbury decided to set up shop in Sycamore along DeKalb Avenue.
Salisburg, a Woodstock resident who used to reside in DeKalb, said choosing to do business in DeKalb makes sense.
“I feel connected to DeKalb, even though I moved out,” he said. “And I just wanted to bring something I love back to the place that made me love it.”
Salisburg said people tend to have positive things to say about Sal’s Jiu Jitsu and Grappling.
“Jiu jitsu is not for everybody, combat sports aren’t for everybody, but it seems that people that make their way into the door, stay for the most part,” he said. “I think that has more to do with the warmth of everyone, the gym itself and not necessarily me.”
Salisbury described the gym’s first open mat held at its new space as a success. He said everyone appeared to have fun and worked out.
“There were about 30 people on the mat and that’s about 2½ times what we normally have,” Salisbury said. “We had visitors from other gyms.”
Megann Horstead
Sal’s Jiu Jitsu & Grappling is seen June
IVT schedules auditions for Sandwich Fair melodramas
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
SANDWICH – Indian Valley Theatre will hold auditions for ages 13 and older for its upcoming “Tillie the Teller” and “Ghosts and Gold” melodramas and oilos performances at the Sandwich Fair.
The auditions will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. July 11 and 2 to 5 p.m. July 13 in the community room of the Sandwich Opera House, 140 E. Railroad St.
The auditions consist of cold readings from the script. Attendees are encouraged to inform the directors of rehearsal conflicts.
“Tillie the Teller” will be directed by Kyle Carr and “Ghosts and Gold” will be directed by Karen Leifheit.
No acting experience is required. Auditioners can be casted in both shows. The performances will be held Sept. 3-7.
“Tillie the Teller” tells the story of Tillie, a teller, who loves Peter Strongvault, a Fidelity National Bank guard. Oliver Wheedle, the bank’s president, has been stealing bank funds and threatens to blame Tillie if she doesn’t do his bidding. Strongvault
comes to the rescue, capturing two bank robbers and helping expose Wheedle.
“Ghosts and Gold” tells the story of Kate, a sharpshooter and singer working in her own Wild West show after years of circus performances. Montana Ana, Kate’s apprentice, and Professor Mack, a “rehabilitated” villain, run The Mack Brother’s Traveling Wild West Show in Paris, France. The melodrama includes twists, turns, misdirection, mystery, frivolity and a last-minute plot-twist gunfight.
IVT also is accepting oilo acts to coincide with the melodramas. Olios are short performative pieces performed before, during or after a melodrama or theatrical performance. The performances include song and dance routines, juggling, magic acts, or onescene acts. The oilios must last three to six minutes.
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, email info@indianvalleytheatre.com, or send a message on the IVT Facebook page.
Let’s Dance event begins July 11
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – Just Make It Happen will hold its 19th annual “Let’s Dance Big Band Weekend” July 11-13.
The dancing event will take place at the Duke Ellington Ballroom in the Northern Illinois University Holmes Student Center, 340 Carroll Ave., DeKalb.
The event features a First Steps program and three bands – the Ken Killian Swingtet, Brian Patti Orchestra and John Smith and the Shananigans Big Band. John Smith and the Shananigans Big Band will headline the Grand Ball and veterans tribute.
The First Steps program begins at 4:30 p.m. July 11 at First United Methodist Church, 2501 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb. It will include three coaching sessions, dance sideline tips and a cabaret dance with the Shananigans Dance Combo.
The program will be led by instructor Annie Kinney and dance couple Ken and Dorothy Stroud and is intended for novice dancers and couples.
The doors to the church open at 4 p.m. Registration is required. Intermediate and advanced dancer workshops are set for July 12. Attendees can learn swing, foxtrot, waltz and Latin dances. The workshops will be led by instructors Dave and Sue Goggin and Frank and Cathy de Raimo.
Participants must wear smooth leather-soled shoes. Dress attire will be “casual up.” Shoe guidance will be provided by Showtime Dance Shoes of Atlanta.
To register, visit justmakeithappen-dekalb.com.
Just Make It Happen Inc. is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit that helps the community through professional entertainment.
NIU’s WNIJ Radio Familia Fest returns July 12 to DeKalb
WNIJ to host annual event at Kiwanis Park
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – Northern Illinois University’s WNIJ 89.5 FM will host its second annual Familia Fest this month to celebrate community, family and soccer.
The free festival starts at 9 a.m. July 12 at DeKalb Kiwanis Park, 391 Fairview Drive.
Familia Fest features soccer tournaments for multiple ages, a youth soccer skills challenge, entertainment, food and family-friendly activities.
Registration is required to participate in the soccer tournament and skills challenge. Volunteers and sponsors for the festival also can sign up. To register or sign up, visit northernpublicradio.org/familiafest.
The tournament will be a six vs. six format. The teams must have a maximum of 10 players with substitutes. The tournament is intended for ages 14 and older. Team registration costs $50 per team.
The soccer clinic is intended for children ages 5 to 12. Attendees can practice dribbling, teamwork and passing. T-shirts also will be provided for free.
WNIJ 89.5 FM is one of two noncommercial public broadcasting stations by Northern Public Radio, the broadcast arm of NIU, and provides local, national, international and independent news.
WNIJ Hola is a digital community part of Northern Public Radio, the broadcast arm of Northern Illinois University, that shares news, resources, opinions and events with northern Illinois Spanish speakers.
For information, visit northernpublicradio.org/familiafest.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
‘Divergent’ trivia contest set for July 10 in DeKalb DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library will host a “Divergent” trivia contest for teens in sixth through 12th grade as part of a summer trivia contest series.
The contest will be held at 2 p.m. July 10 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. Attendees can demonstrate trivia skills
• BARB BOOSTERS
Continued from page 10
not, but he is trying.”
Powell said the community’s support of DeKalb Barb Boosters over the years has been appreciated.
“Without them, Barb Boosters could not have existed for as long as it did,” she said. “We wish that we could have continued. We would love to see somebody take it over and make it exciting again. I think we had people in positions for too long. I myself have been a part of Boosters for nine years,
and learn about the books in a mobile trivia game.
Popcorn and prizes will be provided. Because the contest is limited to 10 participants, the event is first come, first served.
No registration is required to attend. For information, email stevenm@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3400.
– Shaw Local News Network
and I’ve been in a leadership role for five years.”
Remaining funds are expected to be distributed among DeKalb High School athletic teams and lifetime membership passes will be honored at athletic events, according to the Boosters.
Boosters funds also are raised yearly through the FNBO Challenge, the biannual event that traditionally pits DeKalb High School versus Sycamore High School. Powell said it’s not known what will happen for DeKalb fundraising at future Challenges.
“That’s up to FNBO and whatever the challenge guidelines say,” she said.
Photo provided by Northern Illinois University Northern Illinois University’s WNIJ 89.5 FM will host its second annual Familia Fest this month to celebrate community, family and soccer. A child is seen in 2024 enjoying last year’s event.
Hidden Treasures and More to close
Final inventory clearance underway with impending announcement of closing date
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – Hidden Treasures and More in downtown DeKalb soon will close for good, its owners announced.
In a social media post, the gift shop’s owners and sisters Josie and Oralia Gonzalez addressed friends and customers, saying the decision to shutter their storefront at 143 E. Lincoln Highway did not come easy.
“It’s been a joy, albeit a brief one, to provide a space filled with treasures and unique finds,” the statement reads. “We will miss you all dearly. Life sometimes brings unexpected changes, and for us, it’s time to prioritize what matters most
– our family. Though we’ll be stepping back, we’re not going far. We’ll still be here in DeKalb, just a little less visible.”
The gift shop first opened for business in spring 2024.
The Gonzalez sisters intend to clear out the remaining inventory over the course of the next couple of days, according to the statement.
A final closure date is expected to be announced.
In the meantime, the business is offering final bargains and deals.
The Gonzalez sisters expressed appreciation to those who have supported their gift shop.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported us – whether you’ve shopped in our store, shared kind words, or simply stopped by,” the statement reads. “We’ve cherished the friendships we’ve made and have felt truly welcomed by the downtown community.”
More than 200 security cameras to be replaced at Sycamore schools
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
SYCAMORE – Sycamore middle and high schools are getting new security cameras in time for the fall, district Superintendent Steve Wilder said.
Wilder said the district is replacing all of the security cameras at the high school and middle school, but won’t be replacing the cameras at the elementary schools at this time. Wilder said the new cameras will operate on a new software system, separate from the old cameras that will remain at elemen -
tary schools.
“Part of the issue we’ve had with cameras is they’re all on one system, and that bogs down the software,” Wilder said during a June 24 Sycamore School District 427 board meeting.
“The hope is that the cameras in the elementary school start to function a little bit better, a little bit quicker, a little bit more accessible.”
More than 200 new security cameras will be installed at Sycamore middle school and high school this summer, officials said.
Answering a question from board member Alex Grados, Wilder said the
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Waterman Lions Club’s annual Summerfest set for July 19
WATERMAN – The Waterman Lions Club will hold its 25th annual Summerfest and Antique Tractor and Truck Show this month.
The event begins at 7 a.m. July 19 at Waterman Lions Park, 435 S. Birch St. The event features a tractor pull by the Weak End Antique Pullers and a truck show by the American Historical Truck Society’s northwest Illinois chapter.
Activities also include a beer garden, toy tractor pedal pull contest, craft and flea markets, garden tractor competitions, antique farm exhibits and a drive-a-tractor experience. Live music will be performed by Jazz in Progress, The Beaux and The Hold On Band.
“This show has built a reputation for quality and charm,” Waterman Lions Club publicity chair Pam Gaston said in a news release. “The 25th is destined to be the best one yet.”
security cameras will be installed on the interior and exterior of the buildings.
Board member Beth Marie Evans said “that’s good,” when Wilder confirmed the replacement security cameras would be managed on a new software system.
In an annual student discipline policy and safety review submitted to the board on June 24, Wilder explained the reason for replacing security cameras.
“Access to the cameras, and aging software has been a challenge for the last few years,” Wilder wrote in the review. “But, we believe the updates
this summer will give us more consistent access with clearer images and reliability.”
Wilder met with Sycamore Police Chief Erik Mahan, Sycamore Fire Chief Bart Gilmore, deputy fire chief Jim Ward, and the city’s public works director Mark Anderson to discuss crisis plans, according to the review
“We discussed how the city would handle a crisis, but also discussed the school district’s crisis plan. So, a good conversation with them,” Wilder said. “It’s something that we do every year, but we don’t publish that plan on purpose.”
Breakfast will be offered by Shabbona Community Church. A Parade of Power will be led by Max Armstrong, a farm broadcaster. Food will be served by Fay’s Finest Foods and the Lions food stand.
For information, visit WatermanTractorShow.com.
DeKalb library to host short story writing workshop July 10 and 24
DeKALB – Adults and teens can attend a workshop at the DeKalb Public Library to
practice short story writing.
The free event will be held at 6 p.m. July 10 and 24 in the library’s lower-level Bilder Family Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
Participants can view short story writing examples and explore ideas using writing prompts, structural analysis and vocabulary words.
No registration is required.
For information, email thomask@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2150.
– Shaw Local News Network
Megann Horstead
Hidden Treasures & More, 143 E. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb, will soon close for good.
DeKalb High School grad earns orchestra scholarship
Jenna Zimmerman awarded 2025 KSO scholarship
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK
contact@shawmedia.com
DeKALB – DeKalb High School graduate Jenna Zimmerman recently was awarded the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s 2025 KSO High School Senior Musician Scholarship.
The $1,000 scholarship is given annually to a senior who demonstrates instrumental music commitment and plans to perform at the collegiate level.
“Music has helped me grow my leadership skills, improve my communication, and build friendships that have supported me through personal and musical challenges,” Zimmerman wrote in her scholarship application essay.
“From a young age, I’ve loved dancing to music and playing from the heart. Expanding my skills allows me to keep
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
DeKalb church to host hymn sing
DeKALB – City Light Church, 2325 N. First St., DeKalb, will host a free hymn sing at 1:30 p.m. July 16.
For information, call 815-758-4919.
Sycamore church to host Summer Stop event July 19
SYCAMORE – Mayfield Congregational Church will host a Summer Stop event for community members to learn about its Underground Railroad history.
The free event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 19 at the church, 28405 Church Road, Sycamore.
Attendees can tour the church sanctuary, visit the Mayfield Monarch Waystation, and view the documentary “Wade in the Water” directed by James Macon. Ice cream sundaes will be served.
A popup native plant sale also will be held by Country Road Greenhouses. Participants can buy plants for butterflies and pollinators.
Mayfield Congregational Church was founded by abolitionists in 1860. The church was a stop on the Underground Railroad during the 19th century. The church sanctuary’s cross was created from
doing what I love while sharing this love with others.”
Zimmerman performed in the DeKalb High School orchestra, steel band, pep band, percussion ensemble, marching band and wind ensemble, according to a news release. She was a drum major, section leader, drumline captain and
principal percussionist.
Zimmerman also served on the DeKalb School District 428 board as a student member. She was National Honor Society president; student council president; and team captain for cross country, forensics and track.
She was a Harambee Percussion
Ensemble member, performing and teaching in a community-centered music environment. Zimmerman participated in or led more than 20 organizations. She plans to study percussion at the Northern Illinois University School of Music. For information, visit kishorchestra. org/scholarships.
wood from the building’s original timber-frame structure.
For information, visit mayfieldchurchucc. org, email info@mayfieldchurchucc.org, call 815-895-5548, or visit the church’s Facebook page.
DeKalb Township accepting funding applications
DeKALB – The DeKalb Township is accepting applications for its 2025 human service funding cycle.
The application deadline is 4 p.m. July 31.
The township annually awards funds to various community-based nonprofit agencies that provide services or programs that benefit DeKalb Township residents. The township awarded more than $187,000 to area agencies in 2024.
The township will prioritize applications addressing the needs of the elderly, young, disabled individuals or economically disadvantaged. The application requirements were altered for more organizations to be considered for funding.
Applications are available at dekalbtownship.com under the “For the Community” tab. The application packet will include submission instructions.
For information, email supervisor@ dekalbtownship.org or call 815-758-8282.
Cocktails at the Crib fundraiser set for July 19 in Sycamore
SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County History Center will host its fourth annual Cocktails at the Crib fundraiser to support the center’s programming.
The event will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. July 19 at the history center, 1730 N. Main St., Sycamore.
The fundraiser will showcase ongoing corn crib access and construction. The event will include a silent auction, games, cash bar and a tour of the history center’s “Food: Gathering Around the Table” exhibit.
“This fundraiser truly highlights our beautiful campus,” DeKalb County History Center executive director Michelle Donahoe said in a news release. “We are very excited to offer so many unique experiences during this event, and we are looking forward to celebrating local history with the community who so generously supports our work.”
Music will be performed by Craig Mathey and Friends. Souvenir cocktail glasses are
available while supplies lasts. Appetizers, desserts, water, soft drinks, beer and wine will be served.
Tickets cost $50. Attendees are encouraged to buy tickets in advance. Visit the history center or DeKalbCountyHistory.org for tickets.
For information, visit DeKalbCountyHistory.org or call 815-895-5762.
DeKalb library to host health department information booth
DeKALB – The DeKalb Public Library is teaming up with the DeKalb County Health Department to share information about local public health services.
A public health information booth will be set up from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 15 in the library’s main lobby, located at 309 Oak St.
Visitors can learn about healthcare enrollment during special enrollment periods, WIC services, and immunizations. The booth also will highlight current public health observances and offer updated resources.
For more details, email samanthah@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1701.
– Shaw Local News Network
Photo provided by the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra
Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra principal violinist and board member Lynn Slater presents the KSO High School Senior Musician Scholarship to Jenna Zimmerman.
Say “drive-in” restaurant today, and people might immediately think Sonic, which has locations throughout Illinois.
While Sonic began in 1953, the concept of drive-in restaurants goes back to 1921 with the Pig Stand chain in Texas.
A drive-in restaurant differs from a drive-thru restaurant, which likely began in the 1940s and became popular in the 1970s.
With traditional drive-in restaurants, customers pull into designated parking spaces and a server, known as a carhop, comes out to take their order. The carhop then delivers the food right to the vehicle, often on a tray that hooks onto the vehicle’s window.
Although drive-in restaurants today may veer from the strict definition, most retain the nostalgic ambiance.
This summer, enjoy traditional drive-in food at these vintage locations in Illinois.
Ace Drive-In, Joliet
Harold and Irene Voitek opened Joliet’s Ace Drive-In in 1949 and ran the business until 1963, when it was sold to Bill and Ardie Youngren – and then sold to brothers Rich and Tom Pierson – in 1983, according to the Ace website.
Mitch Pierson assumed day-to-day operations in 2022, according to its website.
Ace Drive-In is known for its homemade root beer, sandwiches and carhop service.
The pork tenderloin sandwich is an Ace Drive-In customer favorite, with the double steak burger and the double cheeseburger tying for second place, according to a recent Ace Drive-In poll.
Cruise Nights are held Thursdays from June through August.
A menu is posted on the Ace Drive-In building and on its website.
Patrons also can enjoy their meal at picnic tables on-site.
Ace Drive-In is located at 1207 Plainfield Road in Joliet.
For more information, call 815-7267741 or visit acedrivein.com.
Buddys Drive-In, Beecher
Buddys Drive-In in Beecher is a restaurant with a walk-up window and
drive-thru options.
The Buddys Drive-In online menu features a wide variety of sandwiches, wraps, combo meals, soups, salads, a children’s menu and ice cream.
Buddys Drive-In is located at 613 Dixie Highway in Beecher.
For information, call 708-946-3001 or visit Buddys Drive-In on Facebook.
Dog n Suds, Richmond
Don Hamacher and Jim Griggs, two music teachers from the University of Illinois, founded Dog n Suds in 1953, when they opened a hot dog and root beer stand, according to the Dog n Suds Drive-In website.
Richmond Dog n Suds opened in 1960 and still serves a “heaping helping of nostalgia alongside the chili dogs and root beer floats,” according to its website.
A Dog n Suds commercial from 2020 still shows carhops serving patrons at the Richmond Dog N Suds.
The Richmond Dog n Suds menu is posted online and features Coney hot dogs in regular and footlong sizes.
Dog N Suds is located at 11015 Route 12 in Richmond.
For information, call 815-678-7011 or visit richmonddognsuds.com.
Henry’s Drive-In, Cicero
Although Henry’s Drive-In in Cicero has been “famous for our hot dogs since 1950,” according to its web-
dog bun with just chili sauce).
Its specialty fries include atomic fries (topped with chili cheese, onions and jalapeños), hangry fries (atomic toppings with chopped meatballs) and variations on barbecue and garlic fries, including barbecue cheese fries, garlic barbecue cheese fries and garlic atomic fries.
Jaenicke’s Root Beer Stand is located at 390 E. River St. in Kankakee. For information, visit Jaenicke’s Root Beer Stand on Facebook.
Polk-A-Dot Drive-In, Braidwood
The Polk-A-Dot Drive-In in Braidwood is a family-owned, 1950s-style diner, according to the venue’s Facebook page.
It often features specials, such as Milkshake Monday, Half-Price Hot Dog Tuesday and weekend specials, according to its Facebook page.
The Polk-A-Dot Drive also has memorabilia and nostalgic decor.
site, it’s likely the signature items are popular, too.
These include a tamale on a bun with fries, a pepper and egg sandwich (scrambled eggs with sweet peppers on French bread) and gravy bread.
Henry’s Drive-In is located at 6031 Ogden Ave. in Cicero.
For information, call 708-656-9344 or visit henrys66.com.
Jaenicke’s
Drive-In, Bourbonnais
Jaenicke’s Drive-In in Bourbonnais serves “classic American comfort food served with a side of nostalgia,” according to goto-restaurants.com.
“Their friendly service and oldschool drive-in vibe make it a unique spot for a casual meal with family or friends,” according to goto-restaurants.com. “It’s not just about the food – it’s the experience. You can kick back, relax and enjoy a meal without having to leave your car.“
Jaenicke’s Drive-In is located at 605 Armour Road, Bourbonnais.
For information, call 815-932-2884.
Jaenicke’s Root Beer Stand, Kankakee
Along with its homemade root beer, Jaenicke’s Root Beer Stand in Kankakee offers a number of signature items on its menu.
These include red hots, Kim dogs (hot dog topped with barbecue sauce and nacho cheese) and sauce buns (hot
Polk-A-Dot Drive-In is located at 222 N. Front St. in Braidwood.
For information, call 815-458-3377 or visit the Polk-A-Dot Drive-In on Facebook.
Superdawg, Chicago
In May 1948, Superdawg was established by newlyweds Maurie and Flaurie Berman at the corner of Milwaukee, Devon and Nagle in Chicago, according to the Superdawg website.
The location was the end of the streetcar line, with a forest preserve and swimming pool across the street, according to the website.
To attract passersby, Maurie designed “an architecturally distinct” building topped with two 12-foot hot dogs that were refurbished in 1999, according to the website.
The building also was updated in 1999 with “neon-studded canopies across the parking lot” along with a new speaker system and an indoor dining room. A second location was built in Wheeling in 2009, according to its website.
Its signature Superdawg is a pure beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun and topped with “golden mustard, tangy piccalilli, kosher dill pickle, chopped Spanish onions and a memorable hot pepper,” according to the website.
Superdawg is located at 6363 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago.
For information, call 773-763-0660 or visit superdawg.com.
Candace H. Johnson for Shaw Local News Network
Customers gather for Cruise Night at Miller’s Dog n Suds in Ingleside.
