Downtown Delavan will roar back to life on April 18 as the first Cruise‑In of the season brings car enthusiasts, families, and curious visitors from across the region to Locust Street. The long‑running tradition has become one of Delavan’s most beloved warm‑weather rituals, and the community is once again ready to welcome guests with open arms, full hearts and plenty to explore throughout the day. For early arrivals, the morning begins the way any good Delavan Saturday should—with a great cup of coffee. Visitors are encouraged to start their day with what many locals proudly call the best joe in town, paired with a fresh‑baked treat to set the tone for a full day downtown.

From there, Delavan’s shopping district offers a choose‑your‑own‑adventure of style and discovery. Those looking for chic, modern flair will find it at Beauty of a Site, where curated fashion and accessories fill the shelves. Just a short stroll away, the Delavan An‑Teek Mall invites guests into a treasure‑hunter’s paradise, brimming with eclectic and retro finds. Both shops reward lingering, browsing and wandering—so visitors are encouraged to plan a little extra time to take it all in.

While exploring, guests may want to pick up a fancy hat, because Delavan’s signature spring celebration—the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party—is back the same afternoon. Hosted by the Delavan Optimist Club, the event runs from noon to 2 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of the United Methodist Church. Despite its whimsical name, this is no children’s tea. The menu rivals the sophistication of a visit to the Tea Room in the Mackinaw Depot, elevated with festive décor and, of course, hats of every shape and flourish
Another highlight of the day is the Grand Opening of AO’s Ice Cream Parlor, Delavan’s newest destination for dairy delights. With excitement already building, visitors are encouraged to stop by early—crowds are expected, and the first scoops are sure to be memorable.

History lovers will also find plenty to enjoy. The Delavan Historical Society will open its doors for a special Cruise‑In‑day visit, offering guests a chance to step into a “way‑back machine” and explore the stories, artifacts, and memories that shaped the community. The museum’s immersive displays make it feel as though visitors are walking directly into Delavan’s past.

As the day winds down, Delavan’s dining scene provides the perfect finale. Bashar’s Italian American Cuisine offers an elevated, chef‑driven experience, while The Farmhouse remains a favorite for those craving a great burger and what many insist are the best fries anywhere.

With classic cars, local flavor, and small‑town charm in full force, Delavan’s first Cruise‑In of the season promises a day worth savoring and sharing.

Delavan sixth grader Elliot Knapik delivered an impressive performance at the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee in Peoria, finishing among the top 22 spellers in a field of 60 competitors. Representing Delavan Schools, Knapik advanced through several rounds before being eliminated on the word “reminiscent.” School officials praised his dedication and poise throughout the competition, noting how proud the district is of his hard work and strong showing on the regional stage.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a nationwide public health alert after routine testing found potentially unsafe levels of lead in certain frozen, dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets sold under a Walmart store brand.

Although the product is no longer available for purchase, federal officials warn that many households may still have the affected nuggets stored in their freezers.

The alert applies to 29-ounce bags of Great Value Fully Cooked Dino Shaped Chicken Breast Nuggets produced on February 10 and labeled with a “best if used by” date of February 10, 2027. The product carries lot code 0416DPO1215 and establishment number P44164. According to FSIS, the nuggets were distributed to Walmart stores across the country.

The contamination was discovered during routine surveillance sampling conducted by a state partner. The product was manufactured by Dorada Foods, which supplies poultry items for several major retailers.

Federal officials say testing found lead levels up to five times higher than the interim reference level set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for children. Health experts emphasize that no amount of lead exposure is considered safe, particularly for pregnant women, infants, and young children. Even small amounts can affect developing brains and nervous systems, potentially leading to long-term learning and behavioral challenges.

FSIS is urging consumers to check their freezers and not eat the product. Bags should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
Consumers with questions may contact Dorada Foods or reach the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at (888) 674 6854.

Delavan’s first “Main” Street Cruise-In rumbled to life in September 1989, the kind of small-town experiment that quickly proved it had staying power. The idea came from Jerry Engel, who saw an opportunity after the “Show and Shine Car Show” drew an enthusiastic crowd at that year’s Fall Festival. With momentum on their side, Greg Dirks and Denzil and Carol Cain—who had chaired the Show and Shine—set to work planning a dedicated Cruise-In event downtown.

That first September gathering was such a hit that the trio didn’t hesitate to keep it going. They chose the third Saturday of each month, secured permission from the city to block off the 300 block of “Main” (Locust) Street, and launched the first full season Cruise-In the following April. Between 30 and 40 vehicles filled the block that spring evening, with Greg  Dirks and Denzil Cain guiding drivers into place while Carol Cain spun a soundtrack of ’50s and ’60s classics that instantly set the mood.

Winnie’s Restaurant—owned by Jerry and Lin Engel—stepped in as the original sponsor, donating door prizes and helping build the Cruise-In’s reputation as a relaxed, family-friendly night out. Spectators wandered among the antique and classic cars, swapping stories and admiring chrome. Boy Scout Troop 61 sold hot popcorn. The formula was simple, but it worked: good music, good company and a shared love of cars.

As the years rolled on, the Cruise-Ins became a signature part of Delavan’s summer rhythm. After Winnie’s closed, the Delavan Optimist Club took over sponsorship, with area businesses continuing the tradition of donating door prizes. The events grew livelier, adding 50/50 raffles, games for cruisers and spectators, Loud Muffler competitions and even flame-throwing exhibitions. Some nights drew more than 100 vehicles, lining Locust Street with everything from lovingly restored classics to eye-catching custom builds.

Twice, the Cruise-In community paused to honor individuals whose dedication had shaped the event. One tribute recognized Pete Connell, who restored three 1964 Ford Galaxies and never missed a Cruise-In from the very first gathering until his passing on July 22, 1991. Another honored Ron Holmes, a member of Delavan’s E.S.D.A., who faithfully handled traffic control at every Cruise-In until his death on August 29, 1992. Their contributions—and the memories they left behind—remain woven into the event’s legacy.

More than three decades later, the Cruise-In is still going strong. The Optimist Club continues its sponsorship, and leadership has passed to a new pair of steady hands: longtime organizer Greg Dirks and Steve Skinner, who now help guide each season’s events. The music, the cars, the conversations, and the sense of community remain much the same as they were in 1989.

What began as a simple idea—close the street, invite the cars, play some oldies, and see who shows up—has become one of Delavan’s most enduring traditions. The “Main” Street Cruise-In isn’t just a summer event; it’s a piece of hometown history that keeps rolling forward, one third Saturday at a time.
This first Cruise-In of 2026 is Saturday, April 18, from 4-8 p.m.

Nora Krohn, of Delavan left this earth on January 22, 2026 and went into her Lord’s arms.  She was a loving friend, daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother.  Nora was fiercely devoted to all those she loved.  She had a kind heart, bright smile and hearty laugh.  

She was born in South Pekin to Martha and Cecil Grigsby July 5, 1937, “almost a firecracker,” as her Mom used to tell her.  She was raised by her Mom and step-dad, Hank Supronowski.  

Nora was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Krohn; her son, Gene Grider; siblings, Violet Coats, Aggie (Les) Johnson, Merle Grigsby, Kenny (Jackie)Grigsby; and four stepbrothers, Leo, Carl, Rex and Gene Supronowski. 

She is survived by her daughters, Mardell Grider, Tina Junk (Dave Harrison) and Dawn Krohn; grandchildren Alex Krohn, Jonathan Grider (Leah Ryan), Sarah (Robby) Skinner, Clara Grider; and great granddaughter, Luci Grider.

Nora thoroughly enjoyed time with family and friends, playing dominoes, doing arts and crafts, water aerobics with girlfriends, watching and feeding her backyard birds and reading mysteries.   

Her love and kindness were felt by many, and that will be missed. 

The family wants to extend their sincere appreciation to Hopedale Nursing Home for all the years of exceptional care they provided.  She was not a patient, she was family.
Her memorial service will be held May 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Davis Oswald Funeral Home in Delavan.   Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.  Burial will be at Prairie Rest Cemetery in Delavan.  There will be a luncheon at the Delavan United Methodist Church immediately following.