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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2026 • S h awLo c a l .co m

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Missing Korean War soldier returns home to DeKalb after 74 years / 6

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Tom & Jerry’s donates to veterans fund

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

2 ShawLocal.com 1985 DeKalb Ave. Sycamore, IL 60178 833-584-NEWS Office hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday SUBSCRIBER SERVICES 866-979-1053 customer-support@shawmedia.com 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, closed Sunday SUBSCRIPTIONS The MidWeek is delivered free of charge to households throughout DeKalb County every Wednesday. Those who do not wish to receive delivery may contact customer service at 866-979-1053, or subscriptions@shawsuburban.com, to request a delivery stop. SUBMIT NEWS readit@midweeknews.com CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Leadership from Tom & Jerry’s Restaurant, a staple in the DeKalb-Sycamore area, recently donated $500 to support the DeKalb County Veterans Recognition Fund. It is all made possible after a July 22 fundraiser in which the restaurant gave a salute to veterans by allocating 10% of all sales to the DeKalb County Veterans Recognition Fund. In remarks during a check presentation, owner Diann Beaulieu expressed appreciation for those who serve. “We have at Tom & Jerry’s always supported our veterans,” Beaulieu said. “We will continue to support our veterans. We can never, ever thank them enough for

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The Sycamore Park District recently announced it will begin construction of the final segment of its Great Western Trail Extension Project. The Great Western Trail follows 19 miles of the former Chicago Great Western Railway corridor. The trail also connects the Sycamore Forest Preserve to the LeRoy Oaks Forest Preserve. The trail extensions’ first phase added 0.8 trail miles in 2021. The Great Western Trail extends west to the intersection of Page and Pleasant streets. The projects final phase will extend the trail north across the Kishwaukee River to

OBITUARIES midweekobits@shawlocal.com Market manager Laura Shaw lshaw@shawmedia.com Executive editor M. Eileen Brown ebrown@shawmedia.com Editor Emily Ayers 815-526-4411 eayers@shawmedia.com The Midweek and ShawLocal.com are a division of Shaw Media. All rights reserved. Copyright 2026

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the DeKalb County Community Foundation and is built through tax-deductible contributions from friends, neighbors, businesses and community members. “This Fund is the first endowment of its kind in DeKalb County. This Fund is making history today, here for the future, and honoring the past and those who served our Country,” DeKalb County Community Foundation Executive Director Dan Templin said in a statement. “We are honored to be stewards of this important Fund for generations to come.” Donations can be made online at dekalbccf.org/donate or by U.S. mail to the DeKalb County Community Foundation, by noting Veterans Fund on the memo line, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore. For questions, contact Dan Templin at 815-748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.

Sycamore Park District’s trail extension project begins Aug. 17

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everything they’ve done for us. As they have been there for us throughout the years, we will always be there for them.” The aim of the DeKalb County Veterans Recognition Fund is to preserve and maintain DeKalb County veteran memorials and historical sites not only to honor the past, but also to preserve the future. Jerry Smith, co-chair of the DeKalb County Veterans Recognition Fund, noted the fundraising progress being made. Smith is a U.S. Army veteran and former DeKalb mayor. “We are close to $25,000 in our fund to support future Veteran projects,” Jerry Smith said in a statement. “We are 1⁄4 our way to the goal of $100,000.00 to make this fund sustainable for the future in support of Veterans.” Organizers said the fund is hosted by

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Old Mill Park. The trail users may have connections to downtown Sycamore, Sycamore Middle School, Leon Larson Park, Sycamore Lake Rotary Park, Brickville Road and park amenities and trails. Residents, trail users and businesses may experience, increased construction traffic and equipment, temporary trail closures or detours and periodic noise and dust. The Great Western Trail Extension Project is funded through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program. Federal and state funds provided $3,090,71, covering 75% of the project’s cost. The project’s planning also was guided by the DeKalb-Sycamore Area Transportation Study and informed

by community feedback. “We appreciate the patience of trail users, residents, and our community partners as we’ve worked through the challenges that inevitably extended the project timeline,” Sycamore Park District executive director Jonelle Baily said in a news release. “We’re excited to see this final segment become a reality and complete an important connection that will enhance recreation, transportation, and access throughout our community for years to come.” The Sycamore Park District will provide updates with people adjacent to the projects or online at sycparks.org. For information, call 815-895-3365.

ON THE COVER Members of the DeKalb American Legion Post 66 Honor Guard greet the casket of U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Jack Benton Baker Aug. 5 as it arrived at Finch Funeral Home. See story, page 6. Photo provided by Michael Embrey

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Whatever you’re facing, we can help. The team at Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center offers compassionate care close to home. For more than 50 years, we’ve supported people across DeKalb County. Our goal is to make it easier for you to get the help you need. That’s why many of our services are no- or low-cost for people who live in DeKalb County. Help with emergency needs • Walk-in peer support 24/7 at The Living Room • Mobile Crisis Response team for callers to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the Ben Gordon Center Response Line: 866.242.0111

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

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Barb City Manor’s Anne Cheladyn and Sarah Davis are seen on air with the Chief Illumination Officer for the Light Up The Manor campaign.

Barb City Manor introduces new way to support annual Light Up the Manor campaign Beginning Aug. 1, listeners and community members are encouraged to flock to the 94.9 Facebook page to Barb City Manor, a nonprofit retire- check out the introductory rooster ment home in DeKalb, is teaming up video and to submit their best name for with 94.9 WDKB as the official media the manor’s feathered friend. partner to host Light Up The Manor, The submission period comes to an the community’s annual holiday fund- end on Aug. 31, after which organizers raising campaign benefiting local said they anticipate having Barb City seniors. Manor residents vote to select the winIn making it happen this year, Barb ning name for the rooster and announcCity Manor is introducing a new ing the pick the first week in Septemambassador who will serve as the cam- ber. paign’s official Chief Illumination OffiSee BARB CITY, page 7 cer, according to a news release.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

Family reacts as missing Korean War soldier from DeKalb returns home after 74 years By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com After going missing during combat and presumed dead for more than 74 years, DeKalb native and Korean War soldier Sgt. Jack Benton Baker returned home Wednesday. There aren’t many people still alive who have memories of Baker. He went missing in action in the middle of combat just shy of his 20th birthday in 1950. But Benton’s niece Dale Wheeler, 83, of Poplar Grove, and nephew John Barry DeWane, of Boise, Idaho, 81, shared what they could. They were younger than 10 when Baker went off to war. “I’m glad that he’s in our possession, but I wish he was still alive,” Wheeler said. “He was my favorite, one of my favorite uncles. I had a good time with him every time I was with him. ... I’m just going to miss him, but the Lord said he had to come home.” Up until July 2025, Baker’s whereabouts remained unknown. He was interred ceremoniously in unmarked graves for those who went missing and were never found during wartime. John Barry DeWane said while he “just barely” remembers Uncle Jack, he remembers the impact his absence, and the unknowns of what happened to him, had on the family, especially Baker’s parents, Alma and Jeffrey Baker. “It was a great loss that their son went to war and never came home, and they could never ever really say a final goodbye,” John Barry DeWane said. “It hung around their necks their whole life, and they were just in dire pain and wanted to know what happened to their son.” Most of Baker’s remains were intact and – unbeknownst to the family – buried on American soil for decades. “It’s nice to have his remains come home and be buried next to his mother and dad and finally have this part of history closed,” John Barry DeWane said. “We never have to wonder whatever happened to him again. So it’s just a miracle that this has happened after all these years.”

Photo provided by Michael Embrey

U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Jack Benton Baker, 19, was listed as missing in action after combat during the Korean War on Sept. 5, 1950, and presumed dead. After more than 70 years, his remains were identified and returned to his family in DeKalb on Aug. 5. Members of the DeKalb American Legion Post No. 66 Honor Guard greet his casket as it arrived at Finch Funeral Home Aug. 5.

interrupted on a battlefield half a world away, his final resting place is where it began – among family, in the community that first raised him, and in the nation he gave his life to defend,” according to his obituary. He served his country through active combat in Korea. At just 19, the Sgt. First Class voluntarily led five soldiers in an assault against a North Korean machine gun position that had pinned down friendly forces near Yeongdong, South Korea, on July 25, 1950, according to his obituary. “SFC Baker’s life exemplified courage, selfless service, and devotion to his fellow Soldiers,” according Photo provided by Finch Funeral Home to his obituary. U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Jack Benton Baker. Then on Sept. 5, 1950, he vanished. Near the Nakton River perimeter, for Aug. 8 at Finch Funeral Home in Baker and the 8th Cavalry Regiment DeKalb and open to the public. Baker was born Dec. 5, 1930, in defended Daegu, South Korea, against DeKalb. Not long after the start of the attack from North Korean forces, Korean War, he enlisted in the U.S. according to his obituary. Combat in Korea The last time Baker was seen was Multiple generations of Baker’s Army, Company E, Second Battalion, family gathered together on Thurs- 8th Cavalry Regiment, First Cavalry during “intense hut-to-hut fighting” near Tabu-dong, according to his day night for dinner after traveling to Division, according to his obituary. “Though his earthly journey was obituary. The fighting was part of the town to attend his funeral, planned

Battle of Pusan Perimeter waged Sept. 1 through Sept. 15. “Their company had been completely encircled by the North Korean forces,” said Baker’s great-nephew J.P. DeWane (John Barry’s son), of Hawaii. “They had fought into the local village there during the day. What had ended up happening was they had run out of ammo. As the evening was coming, they started to retrograde out of the village. That’s when he was last seen.” His family wouldn’t hear of him for more than seven decades. “His decisive leadership and extraordinary heroism enabled his fellow Soldiers to escape and earned him the Silver Star, one of our nation’s highest awards for valor,” according to his obituary. The U.S. Army classified Baker as missing in action on Sept. 5, 1950. By Dec. 31, 1953, after years of unsuccessful searching, the Army declared him presumed dead.

See HOME, page 10

• BARB CITY

“We’re thrilled to partner with WDKB to bring a new level of community engagement to Light Up The Manor,” Sarah Davis, executive director of Barb City Manor, said in a release. “This campaign has always been about bringing people together to support our residents, and we think this year’s naming contest is a fun way for the entire community to become part of the tradition.” In the coming months, listeners can anticipate updates on Light Up The Manor on WDKB as the campaign builds toward its November kickoff. Other opportunities for businesses and individuals to get involved through sponsorships also will be shared in the weeks ahead. “At WDKB, we’re always looking for opportunities to connect our listeners with organizations making a positive impact in our community,” Bill Koch, station marketing manager at 94.9 WDKB, said in a release. “We’re excited to partner with Barb City Manor and can’t wait to see what creative names the community comes up with.” Now in its third year, Barb City Man-

Photo provided by Barb City Manor

WDKB’s Peyton Adams is all smiles with the Chief Illumination Officer for Barb City Manor’s 2026 Light Up The Manor campaign. or’s Light Up The Manor is a campaign aimed at providing a welcoming, supportive community for older adults while benefiting the Resident Assistance Fund and Building Project Fund that enhance life for those who call Barb City Manor home, according to a release. For information about joining the campaign’s founding flock, contact Barb City Manor at 815-756-8444.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Continued from page 4

8 The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

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LOOKING BACK

9 of the present Feed Our Older DeKalb (FOOD) program in DeKalb.

There seems to be a plan underway at this time to bring about the construction of three new cement highways, running east and west in this county, and two gravel roads, also running east and west, the roads to be built by the end of next year. A store across the street from the Rukavina store is today without a porch, the result of an accident in which the Rukavina truck is said to have played a major role. S. Rukavina, as the story goes, was cranking his truck yesterday, the engine started and so did the truck. Before he could get around to the steering wheel and direct his chariot safely down the street, it had crashed into the porch of the store across the street, tearing down the steps and doing other damage to the porch. It is understood that the truck tore down all but the roof of the porch. Rochelle has something nice to say about this city, as the following clipping from the Rochelle Independent indicates: Announcement was made last Saturday by several DeKalb businessmen who are interested in the project that DeKalb would have a new modern two-story hotel of latest design and structure to be erected before winter sets in. A coffee shop, restaurant, lounging room, lawn, shrubbery and everything are being planned. DeKalb is stepping right out. Nothing slow about our neighbor. Damage amounting to several hundred dollars was done to the cement bridge near the Guy Housewert farm on the East Lincoln Highway on Monday night when one of the large Inter-State trucks crashed into the bridge. The accident occurred about 12:30 o’clock Monday night, and damage estimated at $3,000 was done to the truck, although the driver was not injured. Workmen this week are expected to complete the work of placing the brick coping on the new Kennedy Building, one of the most modern buildings to be erected in DeKalb within the past several months. Work on the coping was started the latter part of last week. Workmen today were placing the name of the build-

Members of the Kishwaukee Community Hospital (KCH) staff and the DeKalb Fire Department have offered to teach employees of local restaurants the Heimlich Maneuver, a simple anti-choking method developed by a Cincinnati, Ohio, surgeon. As alarm clocks signal the coming of a new summer day and coffee pots begin to “perk” up their owners, some DeKalb County youths already have had their breakfast and have been out working in the fields for an hour or so. The early morning glow provides enough illumination for them to begin their job, detasseling corn for DeKalb AgResearch.

2001 – 25 YEARS AGO Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives

Lincoln Highway looking west from Fourth Street in DeKalb, circa 1910.

ing, made of specially constructed blocks, in the coping, and much favorable comment was heard relative to the beautiful appearance the name is making on the front of the building.

1951 – 75 YEARS AGO

Painting operations and a general refurbishing of the DeKalb post office are underway and the entire interior of the building will be painted. Offices of the postmaster and the assistant postmaster have had the floor repaired, sanded and refinished in addition to the painting of the walls and woodwork. The flag pole atop the post office had been removed and the foundation for a new 48-foot steel flag pole to be located south of the building on the grass plot has been completed. A broad band of yellow marks the center of Sycamore Road today. Workers from the state Highway Department painted the yellow stripes about an inch apart, on the road yesterday. The yellow strip is more visible than the customary black ones, especially at night and in heavy rains. The strip is double to warn motorists whey should stay on their own side of the line. With actual foundation construction work started for the new Stage Coach Players theatre, is the appearance of “Harvey” in DeKalb on Sunday night is

People traveling down Plank Road this weekend may notice a thick black cloud of smoke hovering over one of the farms. The Northern Illinois Steam Power Club is holding its 45th annual Steam Show and Threshing Bee at the Taylor Marshall farm.

expected to have a most tangible result in the building operation. The DeKalb dramatic group has purchased a steel structure, which is to be erected on a plot of A donation of land to DeKalb Park District ground just off the DeKalb-Sycamore Road, fueled a debate between neighborhood resion the gravel highway east of the county dents and board members Thursday night. home. Last month the board accepted land adjacent to Vienna Boulevard from John Clare Boystown, which to most people means a place out in Nebraska, is going to Ltd. of Naperville which plans to build a residential subdivision on Hoger Farms on the have a different meaning in DeKalb. southeast corner of Sycamore Road and Announcement is made today of the Greenwood Acres Drive. establishment of a new store in DeKalb which will stock boys clothing for the Gov. George Ryan’s decision not to seek young man from four years of age and on a second term marks the sounding of the up. The newly remodeled quarters which starter’s pistol in a race among Republicans are in the basement of the Frank-Phillips and Democrats who want his seat. Ryan told store, this establishment is not open for a hometown crowd of supporters Wednesbusiness. days that he could not run in 2001, saying he wanted to govern free of the stress of a 1976 – 50 YEARS AGO campaign, and never mentioning the driver’s Thieves took the load off a J. C. Penney’s customer Wednesday night by heist- license scandal that caused his voter approval rating to plummet. ing a new, still in its cardboard box, sofa. The $200 sofa was placed behind the Responding to pressure from officials in store in the alley where its new owners DeKalb and Sycamore, Cortland is considerwas to pick it up. Thieves apparently moved faster than the customer, however, ing a plan to collect school impact fees on new residential development. Cortland, because the sofa was gone when he got which grew by 114 percent during the 1990s there. to 2,066 people, the biggest population Plans are underway for development of increase of any community in DeKalb County. a senior citizens’ lunch program in Syca– Compiled by Sue Breese more. The program would be an extension

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026

1926 – 100 YEARS AGO

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

10 LOCAL NEWS BRIEF Sloopers 200th anniversary event set for Aug. 16 in Lee

The Shabbona-Lee-Rollo Historical Museum will host an event for community members to celebrate the Sloopers’ 200th anniversary tours to Norway and New York. The Sloopers Society of America marks the historic event when the first organized group of people from Norway immigrated

to the U.S. The free event will begin at 1 p.m. Aug. 16 at Calvary Lutheran Church, 19 Perry Road, Lee. The event features speaker Barb Benson Johnson. Raffles, including a quilt raffle, will be offered. Refreshments will be served. Donations are welcome. – Shaw Local News Network

ron, and his living niece, Dale to make the match. Continued from page 6 Baker was repatriated surrounded by members of his family. “It turns out they’d actually had his The search continues It wasn’t until recently that the fam- remains; they just didn’t know it,” J.P. ily learned Baker’s remains had been on DeWane said, adding that most of BakAmerican soil for a long time – likely er’s remains are intact. since about 1953 or 1954, J.P. DeWane Homecoming said. Fast forward to the morning of Mid-century technology limited how Aug. 5. J.P. and Mele flew from Hawaii far the search could go to identify probable remains of soldiers who likely died to Chicago, and were joined by Lucas in battle. But as time advanced, forensic Wheeler – Dale’s grandson and Sgt. Baker’s great-great-nephew. science did, too. Lucas Wheeler, who’s on active duty Through the U.S. Defense Prisoner of stationed in Alaska, was the primary War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency’s tireless efforts, the search for escort. “It’s a huge honor to be a part of the Baker never stopped. transition of bringing him back to the “Part of the promise for American military is that nobody gets left behind,” family and pay those respects,” Lucas J.P. DeWane said. “So they’re [DPAA] Wheeler said. “This is definitely an actively searching for people from opportunity that I would never want to World War I, Korea, Vietnam, all around pass up.” About 5 a.m. Aug. 5, the remains of the world.” Unknown to his loved ones, Baker’s the Silver Star-earning combat veteran remains were found near Namyeo- arrived at O’Hare International Airport ng-dong, a district in Seoul, South in Chicago. Some of Baker’s family Korea, following the war. His remains members greeted the casket, draped in made it back to American soil and were an American flag. Baker was escorted back to DeKalb, buried, unidentified, at a war memorial greeted by area first responders. At in Hawaii. In his memory, Baker’s name was Finch Funeral Home, members of the listed on the Courts of the Missing at the DeKalb American Legion Post 66 Honor National Memorial Cemetery of the Guard waited, offering salutes as he was Pacific in Honolulu, and on the Korean carried inside. The family plans to lay Baker to rest War Veterans Memorial Wall of Remembrance in Washington, D.C., according at 10 a.m. Aug. 8 with a public service at the funeral home, 310 Oak St., DeKalb. to his obituary. For the past six years, Baker’s Immediately following the service will nephew J.P. has been stationed in the be a burial with full military honors at Army National Guard in Hawaii with Fairview Park Cemetery, 1600 S. First his wife, Mele. He was the point of con- St. Generations of his family never gave tact for the family when DPAA officials learned they likely found a positive up the search, according to his obituary. “Though his life was cut tragically match for Baker’s DNA. In 2022, as part of the DPAA’s mission short at the age of 19, his story did not to find and identify missing American end on a Korean battlefield,” according soldiers, Baker’s skeletal remains were to his obituary. “It continued through exhumed for forensic analysis. On the perseverance of his family, the dediJuly 28, 2025, they were positively iden- cation of those committed to accounting tified. J.P. said forensic scientists used for America’s missing, and a grateful DNA from Baker’s youngest sister, Sha- nation that refused to forget.”

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Help support local kids and families fighting pediatric cancer.

Mark Busch file photo

The Egyptian Theatre and Tails Humane Society have partnered to support pet adoption through a “Puppy Pals Live” ticket giveaway, according to a news release from the theater.

Egyptian Theatre, Tails Humane Society partner for Puppy Pals Live ticket giveaway Two organizations team up throughout August to promote pet adoption SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com The Egyptian Theatre and Tails Humane Society have partnered to support pet adoption through a Puppy Pals Live ticket giveaway, according to a news release from the theater. Throughout the month of August, the first 100 pet adoptions at Tails Humane Society will each receive a voucher for two free children’s tickets to “Puppy Pals Live,” coming to the Egyptian Theatre at 2 p.m. Sept. 20, according to the release. The partnership brings together two nonprofit organizations dedicated to enriching the lives of families throughout DeKalb County. By encouraging pet adoption and providing a memorable family outing, the promotion celebrates the special bond between people and their pets.

“Puppy Pals Live” is a family-friendly comedy and stunt dog spectacular featuring talented rescue and adopted dogs performing incredible tricks, acrobatics and interactive routines. The nationally touring production showcases the intelligence, athleticism and lovable personalities of dogs while highlighting the amazing potential of rescued animals. Families interested in adopting are encouraged to visit Tails Humane Society during the month of August to meet the available pets and learn more about the promotion, including eligibility, voucher redemption and adoption guidelines. Tickets for the show can be purchased at the Egyptian Theatre box office during box office hours (open 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday), online at www.egyptiantheatre.org or by calling the box office at 815-758-1225.

• This article was reformatted from a press release using artificial intelligence. A Shaw Local editor verified the information, edited the article and approved it before publication.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026

2nd Annual Sycamore Lion’s Club Cookie Crawl

DeKalb County Community Foundation accepting fall grant applications ity to Community Impact Funds, Field of Interest Funds, and Donor-Advised Funds at the CommuThe DeKalb County Community nity Foundation. Foundation is accepting applications Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund for the Fall 2026 Community Needs Grants support music education for and Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation nonprofit and public sector organizaFund grant programs. tions throughout the greater ChiNonprofits and public sector orga- cagoland area, with preference given nizations located in or providing ser- to organizations serving DeKalb vices in DeKalb County are invited to County residents in recognition of apply. Wurlitzer’s local heritage. Last year, Learn more or apply online at the program provided $241,400 to supdekalbccf.org/grant-programs. port music education across 46 orgaCommunity Needs Grants support the nizations. capital and project-based needs of Applications are due by Sept.1 at local nonprofit and public-sector 11:59 p.m. Funding is made possible organizations. Last year, this grant through the Farny R. Wurlitzer Founprogram provided $228,520 to address dation Fund at the Community Founthe needs of 40 organizations through- dation. out DeKalb County. For questions on grant programs The application deadline is Sept. 1 or additional assistance, please conat 11:59 p.m. Funding is made possi- tact grants@dekalbccf.org or 815-748ble through ongoing donor generos- 5383.

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The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

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LOCAL NEWS BRIEF Sycamore pie business to host peach-themed event Aug. 15

The Treehouse Pie Company will host a Peach Jubilee for community members to celebrate everything peach-related. The free jubilee will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 15 at the company, 265 W. Peace Road, Sycamore. The jubilee features a Winfield Ronald

McDonald House toy drive and Uno, Chutes and Ladders and Dungeons and Dragons tournaments. Attendees also will be able to buy peach-themed food. Registration is required for the Dungeons and Dragons tournament. For information or to register, visit thetreehousepieco.com. – Shaw Local News Network

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By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com Officials with the city of Sycamore and Sycamore Community School District 427 have agreed to an updated contract regarding school resource officers, according to city and school records. On Aug. 3, the Sycamore City Council gave the final approval for the agreement, which will solidify how the city and Sycamore school district share the costs of the school resource officer program. During the meeting, City Manager Michael Hall told the City Council that “a lot of the changes are related around just kind of governance.” He said one of the “major changes” to the agreement – which was last updated in 2020 – is a clarification of how the costs of the school resource program are split between the two taxing bodies. “In the past, it’s been kind of

subjective, but now it’s clear it’s that 75-25 split, which I think is the bigger understanding that needed to be clarified,” Hall said. The Sycamore school district will reimburse the city of Sycamore 75% of the salary, applicable insurance, retirement contributions and other employee benefits for school resource officers, documents show. In a letter to the Sycamore City Council, Hall wrote that the new language “removes ambiguity, and provides a clearer long-term funding methodology.” It also incorporates current Illinois law, and prohibits using municipal citations or monetary fines as school-based consequences. The update did not increase the number of resource officers – two – assigned to Sycamore schools. “Everything else is based around how the police department operates and state law,” Hall said.

Camden Lazenby file photo

Officials with the city of Sycamore and Sycamore Community School District 427 have agreed to an updated contract regarding school resource officers, according to city and school records.

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MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Contract OK’d for Sycamore school police officers

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

Search underway for DeKalb County Has Talent: ‘We’re looking for everybody’ Organizers searching “We’re envisioning bringing shows crowd of 75 to 100 attendees with judges with media exposure, mentorship and to veterans’ homes and senior homes,” and audience voting. industry connections and more. for singers, musicians, Habeel said. Habeel said RTW Veteran Center When asked if he believes there’s DeKalb County Has Talent is open already has commitments from NIU’s space in the entertainment industry dancers, comedians, more to all ages and talents. Music Department and Aurora Music for another talent competition, Habeel By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com Remake The World (RTW) Veteran Center, a veteran impact and veteran service organization in DeKalb, is in need of singers, musicians, dancers, comedians, spoken word artists and more. Organizers are working to put on the inaugural DeKalb County Has Talent in the center’s Liberty 250 Theater. Founder and President Daniel “Doc” Habeel said he sees the showcase as a win-win for all involved.

There will be a weekly audition process. Not everyone is expected to make the cut. Habeel said he knows what DeKalb County Has Talent is looking for in theory. “People who feel that they have some kind of talent and have an aspiration just to get on stage,” Habeel said. A semifinal showcase is anticipated to take place in September and October, featuring 20 to 30 finalists with coaching and mentoring provided. A grand finale showcase, which will be a ticketed event in November, is expected to be staged in front of a

Company to help with the event. But the RTW Veteran Center still is working on building a complete roster of judges. Habeel said the center has been making progress on getting talent to sign up. “They’re trickling in,” he said. Habeel said they anticipate the showcase being a seasonal venture for the center going forward. This fall is hoped to mark the inaugural event. RTW Veteran Center is seeking sponsors to help make the event possible. Opportunities are available to help

said yes. “That’s the beauty, we’re local,” Habeel said. “We’re in the places that they don’t get into. We’re a stepping stone.” Habeel emphasized that everyone has a shot in DeKalb County Has Talent. “One of the big missions of the center is to help people grow,” Habeel said. As part of the contest, top participants are eligible for cash prizes and other incentives. For information or to sign up, call 815-517-1094.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS explore the site and capture what Glidden Homestead to host community art day event Aug. 23 speaks to them.”

from “Messiah” by George Frideric The free blood drive will run from 1 to Handel and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The 6 p.m. Aug. 18 in the library’s lower-level The Joseph F. Glidden Homestead and Phantom of the Opera.” The J.F. Glidden Homestead and Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Historical Center will host a “Capturing Historical Center is a nonprofit organizaDonations of all blood types will be DeKalb library to host health History: Community Art Day at Glidden” tion working to preserve the home and accepted. Appointments are encourdepartment booth Aug. 18 barn while providing educational event for community members to aged. To schedule an appointment, call The DeKalb Public Library will host a opportunities to the public. explore the homestead through art. 800-733-2767 or visit the American Red DeKalb County Health Department for For information, email jessi@gliddenThe free event will be held from 1 to residents to learn about health services Cross website. 4 p.m. Aug. 23 at the homestead, 921 W. homestead.org. For information, email chelsear@dkpl. available in the area. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb. Sycamore church to org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1700. The free booth will be held from 9:30 Attendees can create an artistic hold organ recital Aug. 16 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 18 in the library’s interpretation of the homestead. The DeKalb library to offer patrioic The Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. main lobby, 309 Oak St. first 20 participants will receive an John will hold an organ recital for The booth includes information about koozies sewing program Aug. 14 eight-by-10 canvas. Attendees are The DeKalb Public Library will offer a residents to celebrate the church’s immunizations, healthcare enrollment encouraged to bring their own art 150th anniversary. for special enrollment periods and WIC. program for adults to learn how to sew supplies. A limited paintbrush and The free recital will begin at 3 p.m. The booth also will feature new program patriotic can koozies. acrylic craft paint supply also will be Aug. 16 at the church, 26555 Brickville The free program will be held from 2 to services and focus on nationally provided. Registration is required. To Road, Sycamore. recognized observances. No registration 4 p.m. Aug. 13 in the library’s 309 register, visit GliddenHomestead.org or The recital features church music is required. Creative makerspace, 309 Oak St. docs.google.com/forms. director Nicholas Hansen and recent For information, email leahh@dkpl.org Sewing machines and materials will be “We’re excited to see how our commu- Augusta College graduate Jonathan or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2112. provided. Participants also can bring nity interprets the Homestead through Hansen. Nicholas Hansen will perform their sewing machines and fabric. Due art,” J.F. Glidden Homestead and DeKalb library to an original hymn tune, “Prelude and to limited space, the program is firstHistorical Center executive director Fugue on St. Anne” by Johann Sebastian host blood drive Aug. 18 Jessi Haish LaRue said in a news release. Bach, Samuel Barber’ “Adagio for The DeKalb Public Library will partner come, first-served, For information, email Ambers@dkpl. ”History can inspire creativity in so Strings” and musical works arranged by with the American Red Cross to hold a org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2851. many ways, and this event provides an blood drive to strengthen its blood Louis Vierne and Nicolaus Bruhns. opportunity for people to slow down, Jonathan Hansen also will sing arias supply. – Shaw Local News Network

Number of chronically absent SHS students up 15% since 2018-19 By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com Chronic absenteeism has increased more at Sycamore High School since before the COVID-19 pandemic than at any other school in DeKalb County, according to Illinois State Board of Education data. During the 2024-25 school year (the most recent year of data published by ISBE), 26.6% of Sycamore High School students missed more than 10% of a school year. When a student misses that much school, the ISBE tallies them as chronically absent. Data shows that the number of chronically absent Sycamore High School students has risen 15% since the 2018-19 school year, which was the last full school year before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted classrooms across the globe. In a provided response to questions about the increase in chronic absenteeism at Sycamore High School, Superintendent Kristen Campbell wrote that district administrators’ “focus is not simply on the data; it’s on the students behind the numbers.” “We continually ask ourselves how we can ensure every student feels welcome, safe, and valued within our school community while working alongside families to understand and remove barriers that may impact attendance,” Campbell wrote. Campbell said that the 15% increase in chronic absenteeism at Sycamore High School is “notable,” but isn’t a challenge unique to the school district. School district officials from across the nation have sought to stop an increase in chronic absenteeism since the pandemic disrupted the flow of academia. During the 2018-19 school year, Illinois had a statewide chronic absenteeism rate of 18%, according to the American Enterprise Institute. The statewide rate peaked during the 2021-22 school year at 30%. During the 2023-24 school year, the rate declined to 26%, according to the data. When asked what she thinks may be causing the chronic absenteeism in Sycamore, Campbell wrote that there

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Sycamore graduate and senior class speaker Julia Weaver addresses the crowd May 24 during the Class of 2026 Commencement at Sycamore High School. isn’t one specific reason students miss class. “Every family’s circumstances and lived experiences are unique,” Campbell wrote. “We work alongside families to understand their situations and identify meaningful supports that help students attend school consistently.” Michael DeVito, Sycamore school board president, wrote that the district’s parent-teacher advisory and behavioral intervention committees have discussed potential causes for the increase. He also wrote that Regional Office of Education truancy administrative staffing has affected intervention capacity within the district. Between the 2024-25 school year and the last year before the pandemic, Sycamore Middle School’s rate of chronic absenteeism increased by 8.8%, according to ISBE data. During the 2024-2025 school year, Sycamore Middle School had a chronic absenteeism rate of 17% – the fourth highest of any school in DeKalb County. Of public schools in DeKalb County, Sycamore High School had the second highest enrollment and the second

highest percentage of students who were chronically absent during the 2024-25 school year. DeKalb High School was No. 1 in both categories. Data shows that DeKalb High School’s rate of chronic absenteeism (35.4%) during the 2024-25 school year dropped a mere 0.5% since the 2018-19 school year. Campbell said she has sought “to strengthen the systems that support student success” by changing the district’s leadership. “The addition of our chief academic officer allows us to build stronger, more consistent multi-tiered systems of support to proactively communicate and address family challenges before students are considered chronically absent,” Campbell wrote. She described attendance as a shared responsibility. “Our goal is to create learning environments where students want to be each day,” Campbell wrote. “The Illinois State Board of Education has also proposed shifting our focus to identifying and tracking strategies that cause students to want to come to school by highlighting consistent attendance as a

state indicator.” When asked for his response to the increase in chronic absenteeism at Sycamore High School, DeVito wrote that board members have been discussing how to reverse the trend for the past two years. “One of the board’s stated goals is for every district school to work toward ISBE’s exemplary designation, and consistent attendance is a critical indicator in achieving that goal,” DeVito wrote. The Sycamore school board approved a list of goals for the 2026-27 school year during a meeting May 26, according to district documents. However, the list doesn’t detail plans or a timeline for how to meet those goals. “The board will regularly monitor the district’s goal progress during the coming year and the community should watch for those updates as well,” DeVito wrote Wednesday. “Administration is tasked with strategic planning and implementing action towards goal achievement, with student attendance serving as one of the key measures of that work.”

MIDWEEK The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026

School District 427 faces rise in absenteeism

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK

New townhomes coming to DeKalb’s south side By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com The city of DeKalb’s housing stock could see a new addition this fall. Greenlee Homes, a family-owned-and-operated custom homes developer of almost 20 years, is in the process of building four residential townhome units on two lots near 255 Bent Grass Circle on DeKalb’s south side. Alfred Turner, vice president of operations for Greenlee Homes, said he’s enthusiastic about the project. “We’re quite excited about bringing affordable housing to the community,” Turner said. Through Greenlee Homes, Turner and his business partner and wife, Candace Turner, have completed an array of custom home builds, some of which are located in suburban Aurora. Turner said people generally gravitate toward their company’s new home builds and what they have to offer. “They have sold pretty quickly,” Turner said. “It’s been bidding wars mostly on all of my projects. ... I feel like the demand is pretty high for new construction and affordable housing.” Turner said it means a great deal to the company to have the opportunity to build in DeKalb. “This is where my wife actually went to college,” Turner said. “She wants to give back to this community. We have [given] back to Aurora’s community.” Once built, each of the townhome units will be sold on the market for just south of $400,000. The townhomes feature two different concepts, with the two outer units being larger in size and the two middle

Photos by Megann Horstead

Project leaders from Greenlee Homes celebrated the start of construction on new townhomes on DeKalb’s south side Aug. 4 with an official launch and a community reception. units being smaller. The two outer units, which occupy 1,584 square feet, are intended to have three bedrooms with 2.5 bathrooms and two-car garages. As for the two middle units, they will feature two bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a one-car garage, sprawled over 1,207 square feet.

Construction is in the early stages, but from the site, the walls of the concrete foundation were visible to passersby. Underground plumbing also was being installed. Turner said he envisions that the townhomes could appeal to many. “We have more of a modern design,”

he said. “I think that they would like curb appeal.” Project leaders came together Aug. 4 to mark the project’s official launch with a community reception. A ribbon-cutting was included. The project has an anticipated completion date in November.

LEFT: Greenlee Homes is building townhomes on two lots located near 255 Bent Grass Circle on DeKalb’s south side. FAR LEFT: Construction is underway on new townhomes on DeKalb’s south side near 255 Bent Grass Circle as seen Aug. 4.

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Advertising Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise "any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination." Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD 1-800-669-9777 Hearing impaired number is 1-800-927-9275

2001 JD 9550 combine, ONE OWNER,, 2WD, Chopper/spreader, rock trap, 4331 Sep. hrs., 6224 Eng. hrs. bin extensions, GPS yield monitor, frts. 30.5L -32, rears 14.9 -24, 2013 JD 606C,, 6 row 30” row poly snouts, with Crop sweeper corn reel, approx. 1,800 acres on rebuild, new stalk rolls chains, & sprockets, 30” rows, 2001 JD 925F, bean head with 2001 HT 25 head mover, 2010 JD 8320R, MFWD, power shift, Pre Def, 4 remotes, 3,338 hrs., big shaft 1000 pto., 40hp bump, 16F 3R, Steinbauer weights, 4G MTG JD auto guidance ready, Quick hitch, buddy seat, Ag leader steer command, front hubs & duals, frts. 420/ 85R-34 rears 480/80R-50, 2000 JD 8110, 2-WD, 3 remotes, 7439 hrs. Power Shift, Q/H, Weights, 1000 pto, with NIB extra cab mirrors, rear duals, Rears 480/80R-46, frts. 11.0024SL, 1989 185F White power frt. assist, 5324 hrs., with duals, Cummins Eng, Weights, Q/H, 3 remotes, 540/1000 PT0, cab, rears 18.4R42, fronts, 16.9R28, 1984 2-135 Series 3 White, 2WD, 8062 hrs., 3 remotes, Q/H, Weights, duals,540/1000 pto rears newer 480/80R38, fronts 11.00-16, Newer A/C pump,1983 2-135 series 3 White, 540/1000 pto, 5615 hrs., Q/H, weights, 3 remotes Engine running needs cylinder repair, MM M5, wide front, fenders, Gas odometer shows 4,496 hrs., Allis D17, NF P/S, Fenders, Gas, odometer not accurate, MM G1355 Cab LP, Odometer shows 2,898 hrs. MM G 1000 Newer rubber, LP open station, AC WD 45 P/S, NF Fenders converted to 12v system, JD 325 Riding lawn tractor 54” deck 820 hrs.,1990 Honda four Trax 300 four-wheeler 2WD, AS IS,1970’s CAT 955L Track Loader 88” Bucket, 1999 RO Gator 854 Chem Sprayer, 80’ booms, 5233 hrs., 750-Gal stainless tank, Cummins B-5.9 A engine, Ag leader GPS 7500 Globe, steady steer, Ag Leader In Command sprayer controls, pressure washer,75-gal fresh water rinse system, 2023 New hoses used one season, new pump & plumbing front fill tires 380/90R46, 2021 Nurse tank,, on B&B trailer, 1600-gal stainless tank, 390 GX Honda engine, 3” plumbing, 2 rinse balls, air tank, sump drain 1/4 turn value, with other updates & improvements.

AUCTIONEERS: Chris Wegener 815-451-2820 • Mike Espe 630-669-2667 • Joel Prestegaard 815-761-7426 Loader available day of sale www.Go2WegenerAuctions.com more updates and photos coming

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2002 Brent 674 grain cart augers reflighted, 1000 pto., Tarp, elect scale, 2 cameras, tire 24.5-32, (2) Brent 544 Grain wagons, tarps, both w spare tires, 1987 Freight Liner FLC 112 Conv., Grain truck, 20’ alu box, w tarp, 9 sp., L10 275 hp Cummins Eng. 1979 IH Transtar F-4270 4200 Grain truck 13 speed transmission, 18’ dump box, tarp, 1989 Chev 2500 4WD, Pickup truck miles over, runs, ac not working, 2016 Seed Weigh EF 225 Par-kan seed tender, remote control, KSI Conveyors, 2 bins, electric start Honda GX 390 Eng. Scale tarp, 2013 MF White 8180 corn planter, 12R-30” front fold, Martin Spike closing wheels, row cleaners, planter rebuilt 2022, approx. 2000 ac’s on rebuild complete w/ new disc openers, bushings & bolts, Ag Leader Row clutches,2014 Great Plains 1510 NO Till drill, dual gauge wheels, CPH -15, GP markers, Rebuilt harrow, Keeton Seed, Firmers counter not accurate planted roughly 3800 AC. M3 Agri-Tronic monitor, 1996 Great Plains 1510 NO TILL drill, Dual Guage wheels, CPH_15, GP markers, M3 Agri-Tronic monitor rebuilt tine harrow population monitor Keeton Seed Firmers. Feterl 8” 55’ Auger 2017 Feterl 10” 62’ auger w/ Swing away hopper, 2006 Feterl 10”-62’ auger, w swing away hopper & new gear box not yet installed, 2005 Feterl 10”-62’ auger Mayrath 72’ -10” Hydro lift swing away hopper, Superb Full Heat Grain dryer Model SD375VQ 3- phase on cart w top draw clear wires, stainless steel outer skin. Superb Full Heat/Heat & Cool Grain Dryer Model SA500V 3-phase on cart stainless steel outer skin, 3 ring 1500 bu hopper bin.

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SUDOKU AND SUPER CROSSWORD ANSWERS ON PAGE 2

AMUSEMENTS

The MidWeek / shawlocal.com/midweek-news • Wednesday, August 12, 2026 MIDWEEK