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Police clarify how some graduating student games might cause confusion

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

A game that’s often synonymous with a rite of passage for graduating high school students has DeKalb schools and police on alert.

In response, both officials for DeKalb School District 428 and authorities for the DeKalb Police Department are urging students and their families to use caution as the end of the school year approaches.

DeKalb Police Chief David Byrd said he is not privy to the game being played in DeKalb schools.

“They haven’t seen a spike in those type of games being played yet,” Byrd said. “Sure, they will come.”

What’s known as the “senior assassin” game is a combination of tag and a water gun fight among graduating students.

Some law enforcement agencies from across the nation have taken to social media in recent weeks to get out the word about a “senior assassin game” and the dangers it may pose to public safety. Law enforcement officials said that’s because the public could mistake a water gun for a weapon, and panic could follow.

Byrd said the game may present its share of challenges to public safety.

“Because a lot of these water guns ... those are replicas and they look pretty close to being what you consider a real, authentic firearm,” Byrd said.

Other agencies have taken to social media to clarify how the teenagers can still have fun while informing the public

PUZZLE ANSWERS

puzzlesonpage17

Officials in DeKalb High School report there have been no reported incidents in DeKalb schools of students apparently participating in any “assassin” games. DeKalb High School Principal Donna Larson said it would not be taken lightly, however.

about the game. ABC News posted a TikTok video with a police officer explaining the rules.

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office posted about a “senior water wars” game that students were likely to partake in on April 7. The Sycamore Police Department shared the message.

“We’re not trying to stop the fun,” the sheriff’s office posted. “We want everyone to be safe. Things can go wrong very quickly, so think before you act. And be respectful of others around you.”

But there have been no reported incidents in DeKalb schools of students apparently participating. DeKalb High School Principal Donna Larson said it

would not be taken lightly, however.

“At DeKalb High School, we take very serious precautions when we find out different TikTok or Instagram trends,” Larson said.

Larson said offenders would face consequences in accordance with the district’s code of conduct.

She said it all “depends on, obviously, any situation” and how they’re playing it.

The district does not endorse the game, Larson said.

“That’s why we’re like, ‘Don’t engage in it,’” Larson said. “This can ruin the rest of your high school career. Don’t do it.”

The last day of school for students in DeKalb schools is May 22.

ON THE COVER

On April 19, exactly 10 years after Ricky De La Cruz underwent a heart transplant, he stood alongside his parents, Dori and Lalo De La Cruz, as well as his siblings, Sam, Bella and Nina, to celebrate 10 years of life.

See story, page 6.

CORRECTIONS

Accuracy is important to The MidWeek. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411 or email at readit@midweeknews.com.

Kishwaukee Valley Art League events set for May

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The Kishwaukee Valley Art League will host several events and programs in May at the Gallery on State, 322 W. State St., Sycamore.

KVAL’s next general meeting is set for 7 p.m. May 7 at the gallery. Attendees will be able to participate in the “Create with KVAL” challenge. The theme for the challenge is “Outside My Comfort Zone.”

The league also will participate in the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership’s Give DeKalb County fundraiser May 7. KVAL will raise funds to support its “Art of Giving” program. Donations can made from midnight to noon May 7 online at givedekalbcounty.org/organizations/kval-nfp-kishwaukee-valleyart-league or be sent via the mail from April 23 through May 7. Donation forms are available at the gallery.

KVAL’s May featured artist of the month is nature and travel photographer Joseph Scudder. He began to work as a photographer at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival in 1992. Scudder photographs birds, landscapes and wildlife.

His photographs currently are displayed at the Gallery on State.

The Second Saturday Art Workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 9 at the gallery. Attendees can learn about watercolor painting from IWS signature members Larry Bond and Tamara Shriver Participants must bring their own supplies and artwork samples.

The league recently installed its latest art rotation. The rotation features various art pieces including photography, sculptures, paintings and mixed-media installations. The artwork will be available to buy.

KVAL’s 55th annual Northern Illinois Art Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 6 and 7 on the front lawn of the DeKalb County Courthouse, 133 W. State St., Sycamore. The show features up to 70 artisans exhibiting various fine arts and crafts. For information, visit kval-nfp.org or the Gallery on State.

The league is accepting submissions for its “In Living Color” juried art show. Artists will be able to submit art pieces embracing color such as paintings, jewelry, sculpture, photography and 2D and 3D artwork. For information, visit the gallery.

Middle School cast members rehearsing a scene for their upcoming production of “The Wizard of Oz”

Sycamore Middle School performances of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ begin May 1

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Sycamore Middle School is set to open its spring production, the musical “The Wizard of Oz,” May 1.

The performances will be held at 7 p.m. May 1 and at 2 and 7 p.m. May 2 in the Sycamore High School auditorium,

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Sip n’ sew program set for May 3 in DeKalb

Adults and teenagers can learn how to sew a pin cushion or paper weight at a program at the DeKalb Public Library.

The free program will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. May 3 in the library’s 309 Creative makerspace, 309 Oak St. Sewing machines and materials will be provided. Participants also can bring their sewing machines. Due to limited space, the program is first-come, first-served. For information, email Ambers@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2851.

DeKalb history trivia contest set for May 1 in DeKalb

Teenagers in sixth through 12th grades can participate in a DeKalb history trivia contest at the DeKalb Public Library. The free contest will begin at 1:30 p.m. May 1 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St. Prizes will be awarded. Snacks also will be served. The contest is part of the

427 Spartan Trail.

“The Wizard of Oz” tells the story of Dorothy and her friends and their trip down the Yellow Brick Road. The group plans to find the Wizard of Oz to send Dorothy home and make their dreams come true.

Tickets cost $8. To buy tickets, visit sycamoretickets.org.

library’s America 250 initiative. The trivia contest will be first-come, first-served. No registration is required.

For information, email stevenm@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3400.

DeKalb library to offer salsa tasting May 5

The DeKalb Public Library will offer a salsa tasting for teenagers in sixth through 12th grades to celebrate Cinco De Mayo and Taco Tuesday.

The free tasting will begin at 3:30 p.m. May 5 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St.

The tasting features mild, medium and spicy versions of salsa. Attendees also will be able to learn about the salsas. Participants can vote for their favorite salsa. Due to limited supplies, the tasting is firstcome, first-served. No registration is required.

For information, email stevenm@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 3400.

City solicits Paint-A-Plug program applications

Painters invited to decorate area hydrants as part of city beautification efforts

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The city of DeKalb and Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission are accepting applications for the 2026 Paint-A-Plug public arts program.

The Paint-A-Plug program encourages artists to create fire hydrant artwork to help beautify the city.

Artists are encouraged to paint the fire hydrants with the theme “America250 DeKalb.”

The city’s public art projects are part of America250 DeKalb, a community-wide commemoration of the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary. The initiative also includes downtown lighting and Lincoln Highway mural instal-

lation and the city’s utility box mural program.

To continue this momentum, CCEC Chair Brad Hoey said artists once again can celebrate America through Paint-A-Plug.

“Paint-A-Plug remains one of DeKalb’s most popular public art projects” Hoey said in a news release. “2026 is the second year that we are encouraging participants to integrate a patriotic or historical theme into their Paint-A-Plug project, and I am looking forward to seeing more of this creative and colorful art on display throughout the community.”

The anniversary themes include independence, historic figures, patriotism and the nation’s cultural heritage celebrations and achievements. Helen’s Hair Designs and Spa will offer the first five approved artists a $50 Gordon Hardware gift card to buy painting supplies.

Applications are available online at cityofdekalb.com/paintaplug. Artists must have their hydrants painted by Nov. 1.

The program is partially supported by an Illinois Arts Council grant.

DeKalb man, now 27, celebrates 10 years since his heart transplant as a teenager

‘Because of their support, Ricky flourished,’ says mom of Ricky De La Cruz

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

In 2016, the DeKalb community gathered to support a local teenager who had undergone a heart transplant – 10 years later, he’s living a life his parents said is a testament to that outpouring.

On Sunday, Ricky De La Cruz, 27, of DeKalb gathered with his family to celebrate a decade of life after a successful heart transplant surgery on April 19, 2016. His mom, Dori De La Cruz, 51, said

she still cherishes the support the community gave her son.

“We didn’t feel alone,” Dori De La Cruz said. “Because of their support, Ricky flourished.”

Today, Ricky De La Cruz has finished school, works part time and plays basketball and soccer for Special Olympics at Opportunity House.

When asked what the 10th anniversary of his heart transplant means to him, Ricky said, “I’m happy for everybody.”

“I feel like Ricky can live whatever a normal life is,” Dori De La Cruz said. “His health has been good, but I feel like he can live life.”

That wasn’t always an expectation. She said Ricky had undergone heart surgeries before, but knew a heart

transplant could impact his life for the better.

For more than two months in 2016, Ricky, then 17, stayed at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago and later at a Ronald McDonald House location before he could return home. When he did, on July 7, 2016, he was escorted by DeKalb first responders.

Hundreds of people lined the streets of DeKalb to greet him, many wearing red “Run for Ricky” shirts, which were a part of a community running campaign he inspired.

Now 10 years removed, Ricky said he’s grateful for the support he received from the community and his family.

On April 19, the De La Cruz family and friends gathered in DeKalb to celebrate his anniversary.

In late January 2018, almost two years after the heart transplant, Lalo De La Cruz, Ricky’s father, donated one of his kidneys to his son.

Lalo, 64, said he remembers what it was like to be scared for his son’s health and is thankful for the life Rickey’s gotten to live.

“Nowadays, I tell my wife, ‘I can’t believe it’s only been 10 years.’” Lalo De La Cruz said. “That’s amazing because I remember what happened and everything. It made me so happy he’s still here with us. ... I’m so happy for him and everybody in my family.”

He said taking Ricky to sports games has been among his favorite moments over the past decade. Those memories

• TRANSPLANT

Continued from page 6

include going to White Sox and Bears games, and more.

“We went to a Huskie game in the cold weather. I was freezing that day, but still I take him because he wanted to go there, and it was amazing,” Lalo De La Cruz said. “We didn’t think he was going to be with us the whole almost 10 years now.”

Ricky is alive today because of an organ donor, whom he said he’s grateful for.

Every year, about 3,700 heart transplant surgeries are performed in the

U.S., according to Yale Medicine. The procedure was first completed successfully in 1967, years after Lalo was born. While 90% of heart transplant recipients survive a year after the surgery, that number falls to 75% after five years.

Ricky is among the 55% of people who have lived 10 years after receiving a heart transplant, according to Yale Medicine. His mom said the person who donated their heart gave her son a new chance at life.

“Ricky really wouldn’t be here today without, obviously, the community support, but the big thing is that donation,” Dori De La Cruz said. “It really saves people’s lives. It’s a very sad time, but it’s like a celebration, as well.”

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

Nellie Bly presentation set for April 29 in DeKalb

The DeKalb Public Library will hold a presentation for community members to learn about investigative journalist Elizabeth Jane Cochran, aka “Nellie Bly.”

The free presentation will be held at 6 p.m. April 29 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Attendees can meet Bly at the U.S. Embassy in February of 1919 in Paris. She will recount her adventures as a reporter in the U.S. and Mexico and as a war correspondent. The presentation

also will include photo opportunities and a question and answer session.

Bly is best know for her New York City Lunatic Asylum exposé. She began a solo trip around the world to emulate the Jules Verne novel “Around the World in Eighty Days” Nov. 14, 1889. The trip was completed Jan. 25, 1890. The presentation is part of the library’s America 250 initiative. No registration is required.

For information, email susang@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2114.

– Shaw Local News Network

9am - 5pm

LOOKING BACK

1926 – 100 YEARS AGO

Gund Graham & Company, having the contract for the paving work in DeKalb this year are making splendid progress, and it is expected that within the next week or ten days, the construction of gutters and curbs will be started. Grading operations on North Eleventh street and South Seventh street have been finished, and it is expected that the water services for those two streets will be installed at once that there will be no delay when other crews start working. The big clamshell dirt remover, which is used to remove the surface of the streets to get them to the desired level is making rapid progress on the southwest side of the city.

Men from the state highway department were in Sycamore yesterday placing signs at the intersections of State and Main streets indicating that Route 23 is changed from East Elm and DeKalb Avenue to traverse through the city by way of State Street and Cross street and DeKalb Avenue. Not all of the signs have been placed as of yet, but it is expected the rest of the work would be completed sometime today.

Boys of the Sawyer garage were expected here late today with several more new cars from the Chevrolet factory. The employees left yesterday for the factory, expecting to drive the new machine through today.

Hiland Brothers have been at work on a large sign for several days, which will soon be erected on the hotel site on North First Street in DeKalb, just north of the Standard Oil filing station. The sign, which is a large size carried the names of over 100 people and firms in the city of DeKalb who are listed as those who have made possible the erection of a hotel on the site. It is understood that the list of names will be completed within a few days and the sign put up, as the standards were erected some time ago.

1951 – 75 YEARS AGO

A burglar gang, believed to be professionals, robbed four schools in DeKalb and Lee Counties Thursday night and got away with $354 in cash and checks. Sheriff Francis J. Sullivan said that his investiga-

tion of three of the burglaries convinced him that the jobs were done by “pros.” He made his decision on the workmanlike manner in which the burglars knocked the combinations off the safes in Waterman, Shabbona and Lee. The fourth robbery was at Paw Paw in Lee County.

The annual smelt dinner of the DeKalb Aerie of Eagles was excellent, but the highlight feature of the mixer held last night, was presenting a diamond embellished Eagle emblem ring to Bill Harding.

Daylight savings time will be “clocked in” at 2 a,m, Sunday morning, April 29, 1951. The Genoa city council voted to adopt the time schedule from April 29 to September 30 at the meeting on Tuesday evening. The decision was brought about by the results of a survey recently conducted when citizens were given the opportunity of expressing an opinion. There were 944 contacted, 798 saying they favored the change and 136 for regular time.

Louisville, KY. – A wife was granted a divorce here because her husband would allow nothing to interfere with his morning coffee. She told the judge she was carrying his coffee to him one morning when she fainted. “He just left me laying there and went out and made himself another cup and sat there and drank it while I was still

Soup’s on! Well, actually, soup’s off the menu for about 530 residents of a Northern Illinois University dormitory. Tonight will mark both the end and the beginning of “Soup Days” at the NIU Grant South dormitory. Students will be able to switch from their once-a-month afternoon meal of “Light broth” to the regular dorm menu. More than 500 student volunteers from the NIU dorm have been abstaining from one day of dorm meals a month since January in order to help underdeveloped areas of the world.

In California, it’s okay for a driver to turn right at a red stop light, but 3,000 miles to the east, in New York, it’s not. In between, the same maneuver may be legal or illegal depending on the state you’re in. Half permit it, half don’t.

2001 – 25 YEARS AGO

unconscious.” She said.

There is a new type of inflated radar dome just developed by the B. F. Goodrich Co. for the U. S. Air Force. The 37-foot-high dome, made of special rubber and fiber glass, will house aircraft warning equipment being installed on the Aretaic rim of North America. The rubber house is capable of withstanding winds of 120 miles an hour.

Pack 105 of the Ellwood School Cub Scouts learned many interesting things about railroading at the regular meeting Tuesday night. Waite Embree talked about steam engines and had a model on display which interested the boys very much.

The pupils of the fourth grade in Hinckley are enjoying having Joanne Eastabrook’s “Sammy” the hamster in their room for a few weeks.

“Our Own Kitchen Band” of the Women of the Moose of Sycamore has been invited to play for the Rochelle Chapter of the women of the Moose at its meeting in Rochelle.

1976 – 50 YEARS AGO

DeKalb and Warner Cable Co. negotiators appear headed toward a rate hike settlement which would grant about an 11 per cent profit to Warner.

Six-year-old Kayla Craig of Genoa stood at the front of a procession of walkers in Hopkins Park on Saturday. She was about to lead hundreds of people on a six-mile trek through DeKalb to raise funds for the March of Dimes and its effort to stamp out birth defects.

Over the last 10 years, WNIJ-FM at 89.5 has been slowly doing more and more to fill the need for public radio in Northern Illinois. This week the station has celebrated its 10th anniversary with a schedule of events that include live radio interviews and open houses.

The April exhibit at the DeKalb Area Women’s Center, “Interwoven Works,” will be appreciated by anyone interested in fibers, weaving, batik, other decorated fabrics, cultural comparisons, international studies and women’s works.

A decision by a DeKalb County Board committee to approve the construction of a radio tower in rural Franklin Township could pave the way for a new local FM radio station. The Planning and Regulations Committee gave its unanimous OK on Wednesday to build a tower no higher than 100 feet, as well as a small equipment building, on less than one-half acres of farmland just off Ault Road southeast of Kirkland.

– Compiled by Sue Breese

Illinois Extension seeks budget increase at inaugural Extension Day

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

The University of Illinois Extension staff recently gathered to showcase how extension and Illinois 4-H strengthens communities and call for an increased state investment as part of its inaugural Extension Day.

The event was held March 25 at the Illinois State Capitol, 401 S. Second St., Springfield.

The staff also attended the 56th annual Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day March 24. The events allowed staff connection opportunities with lawmakers to discuss extension’s impact. The extension staff also requested an increase in its state-appropriated budget to $20 million. The University of Illinois Extension fulfills the university’s land-grant mission by translating research, delivering educational programs and offering services which positively impact adult and youth lives statewide.

The state of Illinois ranks lowest in extension support among peer states. The ranking is measured by population, farm acres or farm revenue. Extension generates a return of almost $10 for every $1 invested, with volunteer contributions adding an estimated $15 million annually to the Illinois economy, according to a 2019 economic impact study.

“Extension Day at the Capitol was an opportunity to show our lawmakers firsthand the depth and breadth of what Extension does for Illinois communities every day. We are committed to expanding that impact, and we hope this event helps build the legislative partnerships that will allow us to do so,” University of Illinois Extension associate dean and director Matthew Vann said in a

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

DeKalb Masonic Lodge to hold community safety day May 3

The DeKalb Masonic Lodge 144 will offer a community safety and health day for community members to learn about fire safety, health and police safety. The free event will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 3 at the Masonic Temple Building, 402 Fairview Drive, DeKalb.

The Masonic Lodge, DeKalb police and fire departments, DeKalb County Sheriff’s

news release.

The University of Illinois Extension’s public program reached more than 830,000 residents in Illinois in 2025. The proposed budget increase would support increased agricultural, nutrition and community education through increased public programming funding across extension’s 27 units. The budget increase also will fund 4-H program fees.

“This inaugural event for Extension was a successful way for visitors to our showcase tables to learn about our many programs while staff strengthened relationships with legislators during office visits,” University of Illinois Extension government relations assistant director Carl Baker also said in the news release.

The showcase drew 250 visitors including legislators, legislative staff, agency personnel and constitutional officers. The event was attended by University of Illinois Extension Illinois 4-H and agriculture, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment and energy program team staff. Extension field office leaders visited legislator offices to share stories about the extension programs benefits.

“Our Day at the Capitol was a great opportunity to educate our lawmakers about the value of Extension in all 102 counties across the state. Our informational tables, which were staffed by our expert educators, gave a hands-on opportunity to experience the difference we make,” University of Illinois Extension regional associate director Janice McCoy said in a news release.

For information, visit extension.illinois.edu/global/our-impact or extension.illinois.edu/strategic-planning.

Office and DeKalb County Health Department will discuss safety and health tips. A police car, fire truck, ambulance and K9 Officer also will be displayed. Family Identification Kits are being provided. Hot dogs also will be served. The event will be held regardless of the weather.

For information, call 815-901-3834 or 815-970-5318 or email smbyers1379@ gmail.com or ffb66@juno.com.

– Shaw Local News Network

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Dr. Ito was born and raised in Naperville, Illinois. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine in Downers Grove, IL. Master of Science and certificate in orthodontics from Marquette University School of Dentistry

Dr. Ito has presented and received numerous awards for his research projects regarding orthodontics, which minimize the length required for active orthodontic treatment. He is also highly trained in Invisalign treatment. Please call our office at 815-758-3666 to schedule a complimentary no charge orthodontic consultation.

New scholarship fund honors Sycamore residents

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The DeKalb County Community Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Robert and Laura Carlson Scholarship Fund, created in 2026 by Mary Grimes in honor of her parents, Robert and Laura Carlson.

The Scholarship Fund supports graduating seniors from Sycamore High School in Sycamore, Illinois.

It is designed to recognize students who demonstrate hard work, dependability and a can-do attitude, qualities that Robert and Laura Carlson valued deeply throughout their lives.

Robert and Laura Carlson grew up during the Great Depression. When Robert left to serve in World War II, Laura remained at home as a single parent. Robert was later held as a prisoner of war before returning home. Together, they went on to raise seven children, instilling in them the belief that hard work, dependability and responsible behavior were essential to becoming productive members of society.

Grimes, a former educator at Sycamore High School, said, “When I consid-

ered what to name this scholarship and why, my parents’ values came to mind. I hope it recognizes students who show hard work, dependability, and a never-quit attitude.”

“It is always special when retired educators from school districts in DeKalb County generously support students after investing in them through their professional careers,” DeKalb County Community Foundation executive director Dan Templin said in a news release. “We are honored to not only help Mary support generations of students to come, but also recognize the legacy of love, work ethic, and strong foundation her parents instilled in her and her siblings.”

Donations to any Fund at the Community Foundation, including the Robert and Laura Carlson Scholarship Fund, can be made online at dekalbccf. org/donate or by mail to the DeKalb County Community Foundation, 475 DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore, IL 60178.

For more information or to learn how to establish a charitable Fund in memory of a loved one, visit dekalbccf. org or contact Dan Templin at 815-7485383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.

Homeowners Should Hire KM Heating and Cooling for a Spring HVAC Clean & Check

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Prepare Your System for Summer Before Problems Start

After months of winter use, HVAC systems often carry hidden wear and tear. Components may be dirty, worn, or slightly out of balance. Spring is the perfect time to address these issues before your A/C is pushed to its limits in the summer heat. Catching small issues early helps prevent inconvenient breakdowns during peak usage.

Lower Energy Bills with Improved Efficiency

A professional spring cleaning from KM Heating and Cooling restores efficiency by clearing debris, replacing filters, and optimizing airflow. Well-maintained systems run smoother and cost less to operate over time.

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Skipping maintenance may save money in the short term—but it often leads to expensive

repairs later. HVAC systems are most likely to fail during extreme temperatures when they’re under heavy demand.

Extend the Life of Your HVAC Equipment

With consistent seasonal tune-ups, homeowners can extend the lifespan of their HVAC system and delay costly replacements by years.

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A professional cleaning includes filter replacement, coil cleaning, and airflow checks, helping reduce airborne contaminants and improve overall indoor air quality.

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Spring is the best time to schedule HVAC service before the summer rush begins. As temperatures climb, HVAC companies book up quickly and wait times increase.

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Call KM Heating and Cooling at (815) 6911991 and ask for Dave Kissel to schedule your Spring HVAC Clean & Check today!

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DeKalb Township to hold Senior Car Clinic May 1

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

The DeKalb Township will partner with Kishwaukee College and DeKalb County TRIAD to hold its annual Senior Car Clinic for DeKalb County residents ages 55 and older to get their cars serviced.

The free clinic will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. May 1 at Kishwaukee College, 21193 Malta Road, Malta.

The college’s automotive technology department students will per -

form 25-point inspections and fluid top-offs. Donuts and coffee also will be served.

Attendees can receive May Day baskets, gifts and connect with senior service providers.

Due to limited appointments, reservations are required. To schedule an appointment, call 815-758-8282.

DeKalb County TRIAD serves DeKalb County senior citizens by providing inclusive and empowering programs to improve safety and quality of life.

DeKalb church to host fourth annual Aruna Run and Walk May 2

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

The Aruna Project will hold its fourth annual Aruna Run and Walk to support its mission and victims of human sex trafficking.

The run begins at 9 p.m. May 2 at Christ Community Church, 2350 Pride Ave., DeKalb.

Attendees can run or walk the main race. 5K and one mile courses will be available. The courses are stroller-friendly and accessible all abilities and ages. The race also features kindfriendly activities, survivor-crafted merchandise and complimentary post-race massages. A Toddler Trot will begin at 10:15 a.m.

The top male and female finishers will receive an Aruna Dopp Kit Bag, gift card and a medal. Medals also will be awarded to first, second and third place finishers. Certificates will be presented to first place finishers in age-group categories. The 5K race’s last regulation time finisher may earn

the Turtle Award and a turtle sundae gift certificate to Ollie’s Frozen Custard.

Participants will receive a finisher luggage tag, Aruna t–shirt, Aruna sticker and handmade beach bag. Registration is required. Fees are $45.52 for the main race and $27.50 for children ages 12 and under. A late fee will apply to attendees registering after April 26. To register, visit raceroster.com/events/2026/115942/2026dekalb-aruna-run. Race-day registration runs from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m.

Advance packet pickup will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. April 30 and May 1 at the church. Race-day packet pickup begins at 7 a.m. Virtual participants can collect packets during church hours from April 30 through May 20.

Parking will be available at DeKalb High School, 501 W. Dresser Road, and Katz Park, 393 W. Dresser Road, DeKalb.

For information, visit raceroster. com/events/2026/115942/2026-dekalbaruna-run

Opportunity House

Features

Art Show and “Give DeKalb County” in May

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Spring is a time for creativity and community, and Opportunity House is celebrating both with two meaningful events in early May. From a vibrant art exhibition to a countywide day of giving, these opportunities highlight the organization’s impact and invite the community to get involved.

On May 6, 2026, Opportunity House will host its annual Spring Art Exhibition, “Art In Bloom,” at Blumen Gardens, located at 403 Edward Street in Sycamore. The event will run from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. This special evening will feature approximately 100 pieces of artwork created by Opportunity House program participants and staff.

Guests can explore a diverse gallery that includes paintings, photography, sculptures, fiber arts, and multimedia works. The exhibition not only showcases artistic talent, but also celebrates creativity as a form of expression and connection. Attendees will also enjoy live music, raffles, hors d’oeuvres, and a live floral arrangement presented by community sponsor Willrett Flowers.

A cash bar will be available, adding to the

welcoming and festive atmosphere. This terrific event is also sponsored by WNIJClassical WNIU.

The following day, May 7, marks “Give DeKalb County,” one of the largest fundraising events supporting local nonprofits. Beginning at 12 a.m. and continuing through 11:59 p.m., community members are encouraged to support Opportunity House through donations during this 24-hour giving event.

Contributions made on May 7 directly impact approximately 180 individuals served by Opportunity House. Donations help fund essential programs such as community inclusion activities, Special Olympics participation, recreational events, and residential support. They also provide resources for vocational training, helping individuals with developmental disabilities build skills, find meaningful work, and live more independently. Together, these two events offer a chance to celebrate creativity while supporting a mission that strengthens lives and builds a more inclusive community.

For more information, visit www.ohinc.org or call (815) 895-5108.

Opportunity House 357 N. California St. Sycamore, IL 60178

Ph: (815) 895-5108

Email: info@ohinc.org ohinc.org

Here’s how you can donate to Give DeKalb County’s 2026 fundraiser

24-hour fundraiser is May 7

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Give DeKalb County returns on May 7 with a community-wide invitation to support nonprofit organizations in DeKalb County.

The event has raised more than $12.8 million to date.

There are a range of convenient donation options and every gift is boosted by the Bonus Pool.

Ways to donate

• Online: May 7 from midnight to midnight at GiveDeKalbCounty.org using credit/debit card, electronic bank trans-

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The Conservation Foundation to hold spring farm event May 3 in Montgomery

fer, or mobile pay.

• By Mail: April 23 to May 7 download a donation form at GiveDeKalbCounty. org and mail your completed form with a check payable to “DCCF” for the total donation amount to: DeKalb County Community Foundation, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore.

• In Person: May 7 Donation Drop-Off Event at the Community Foundation, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Following the event, donors may drop off donations until 5:00 p.m. or use the exterior mailbox after hours.

Give DeKalb County is coordinated by the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership (DCNP), a program of the DeKalb County Community Foundation. In 2025, Give DeKalb County attracted 9,385 donations from donors in 43 states and three different countries.

“Give DeKalb County helps connect

The Conservation Foundation will hold a Spring at the Dickson-Murst Farm event for community members to celebrate the area’s rural heritage and explore native plant life.

The free event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 3 at the Dickson-Murst Farm, 2550 Dickson Road, Montgomery. The event features children’s crafts, barrel train rides, activities and play spaces, face painting, hayrides, farm

donors with the nonprofit organizations working every day to strengthen this community,” DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership director Ben Bingle said in a news release. “With several ways to give, participation is easy, plus the impact of every gift is amplified by the Bonus Pool.”

During the Donation Drop-Off Event, donors can bring their donation form and check to the Community Foundation, enjoy light refreshments, and watch the Give DeKalb County total grow. Those who prefer to use a donor-advised fund or make a Qualified Charitable Distribution from an Individual Retirement Account should use the mail-in donation form and mailing process.

Additional details are online at GiveDeKalbCounty.org/Info/Ways-to-Give.

“We are grateful for everyone who

chooses to participate,” Bingle said in the release. “Every dollar matters and when the community comes together to give, it makes a real difference for local nonprofits.”

Donations made during Give DeKalb County leverage a percentage of the Bonus Pool, funded by community partnerships. A complete list of Community Partners and Media Sponsors is available at GiveDeKalbCounty.org.

The minimum online donation amount is $5, with no minimum for mailed donations.

For a list of participating organizations or more information about Give DeKalb County, visit GiveDeKalbCounty.org, or contact Ben Bingle at ben@dekalbccf.org. Follow the giving day on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

demonstrations and live farm animals to pet and observe. Children will be able to drive a tractor. Attendees also can explore the farm buildings. Antique trucks and tractors will be on display. Food is being served by the Country Kitchen. The Newark Chapter of Future Farmers of

America students will shave animals available and sell flowering annuals and hanging baskets. Kendall County 4-H clubs also will offer make-and-take projects and activities. The event will be held regardless of the weather.

– Shaw Local News Network

Community tree planting marks nation’s 250th anniversary

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

With cloudy skies and a high in the 70s, Emma Winters was excited about going into work on the morning of April 21 for more reasons than one.

Winters is an intern at Elder Care Services, where a majority of her duties involve desk work. When she heard they were hosting a community tree planting and help was needed, Winters said she was all in for it.

“I was in the office and wanted to help out because I like being outside,” Winters said, noting how nice a day it was shaping up to be.

Winters was among a group of volunteers on April 21 in DeKalb, lending a hand to plant trees.

It was the first in a budding series of DeKalb Township community tree plantings, which saw dozens turn out to show their support for the newly established garden outside Elder Care Services. The planting was held a day before Earth Day, which was April 22.

The trees, which came at no cost to recipients, were made possible due to the “250 Trees for Tomorrow” initiative, a special arrangement between DeKalb Township and the Morton Arboretum and its Chicago Region Trees Initiative.

DeKalb Township Supervisor Mary Hess said the township’s goal is to plant 250 trees in line with its mission.

“Preserving our environment is important to all of us,” Hess said. “And this is one way that we can do it on a larger level.”

Winters said she was enjoying her time planting trees.

“It’s just fun getting to be outside and interact with some of the people that I intern with,” Winters said.

DeKalb Township put out calls for help from volunteers in the community in the weeks leading up to the event. The community’s response was meaningful, Hess said.

“We’re doing this in celebration of our nation’s 250th,” Hess said. “It’s rewarding to see the sense of community that comes together when we’re doing things to try to improve our community. The response to our tree initiative has been overwhelming. We’re happy that we can give back something to the community for such a momentous occasion.”

During the township event, 10 to 15 trees were expected to find a home in a newly established garden outside Elder Care Services.

Volunteers plant trees April 21, during the event at Elder Care Services in DeKalb. Several

Township’s 250 Trees for Tomorrow initiative.

As a resident of nearby Sycamore, Winters said she strives to be involved in the community.

“I try to be in any way that I can,” Winters said. “If opportunity presents itself, I definitely will.”

Winters said there was a lot to take away from the experts at Morton Arboretum about how to plant trees.

“I never planted a tree before,” she said.

Dazlee Watson said she was glad to have a change of pace and get outside for the day.

Watson is a recent graduate of Northern Illinois University who works for Elder Care Services.

“It’s a learning experience, and it gets me away from typing,” Watson said.

Another community tree planting is expected to occur sometime in the fall.

If Tuesday’s event turnout had anything to say about the state of the nation, Winters said it’s all about peo -

ple coming together with a shared purpose.

“I feel like it definitely shows that anybody can come together and do something that’s important,” Winters said.

Hess shared that sentiment.

“I think that it’s always a good sign

Several volunteers plant trees April 21 during the event at Elder Care Services in DeKalb. Several trees were planted at the location to kick off the DeKalb Township’s 250 Trees for Tomorrow initiative.

when we work together,” Hess said. “There’s a lot of division in our country. So, it’s heartwarming to see that we can all come together for a common purpose that lends to improved quality of life in our community through environmental sustainability. This is the character of DeKalb.”

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