Delavan’s Lake Park lakes will be temporarily closed to the public from May 14 through May 23 as crews prepare the grounds for one of the community’s most cherished traditions—the Annual Kids’ Fishing Derby. The closure allows volunteers and organizers to ready the shoreline, stock the lakes and set up safety and activity areas ahead of the Memorial Day weekend event.

Hosted by the Delavan-Green Valley American Legion Post 382, the derby draws young anglers from across the area for a morning of friendly competition and outdoor fun. The Legion emphasizes that the brief closure ensures the lakes are in top condition for participants. Fishing will resume immediately following the derby, marking the unofficial start of summer recreation at Lake Park
 

What began in 2012 as a small circle of sewing and quilting enthusiasts has grown into a vibrant regional community. The Quilt Guild—now 24 members strong—draws quilters not only from Delavan but from towns all across the area, united by a shared love of a craft that is part geometry and all artistry.

The guild meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of the United Methodist Church. Each gathering opens with a short period of guild business before shifting into the lively and much‑loved “Show and Tell.” Members share new techniques they’ve discovered, offer tips and display their latest creations—whether freshly finished quilts or works still in progress. With an average of 15 members attending each month, the atmosphere is warm, collaborative and always inspiring.

Guild members also take pride in displaying their work at quilt shows, where their precision, creativity and craftsmanship are showcased to the wider public. During the May meeting, the group planned a special collaborative project: a display‑sized quilt composed of individually crafted sections. Each member will contribute one portion, complete with a signature block featuring their name—either signed or embroidered—creating a unified piece that reflects both their collective spirit and their individual artistry.

For this regional guild, quilting is more than a hobby. It’s a shared language of color, pattern and imagination—stitched together one meeting at a time.

The Optimist Club of Delavan celebrated the induction of its newest member, Jennifer Burrell, during the club’s monthly meeting held May 14. Surrounded by fellow members and community supporters, Burrell took the official oath of membership, marking her commitment to the club’s long‑standing mission of bringing out the best in youth and fostering a spirit of optimism throughout the community.

Club Membership Director Steve Skinner led the induction ceremony, noting that Burrell’s enthusiasm for service and her deep ties to the Delavan area make her a strong addition to the organization. Members welcomed her with warm applause and shared words of encouragement as she joined the club’s growing roster of volunteers.

Founded on the belief that a positive outlook can transform both individuals and communities, the Optimist Club’s mission is rooted in supporting programs that uplift young people. Through scholarships, youth events, service projects and partnerships with local schools and organizations, the club works year‑round to inspire confidence, promote leadership and encourage good citizenship among Delavan’s youth. The Optimist Creed—centered on promises such as “to look at the sunny side of everything” and “to think only of the best”—continues to guide the club’s work more than a century after the international organization was founded.

During the May meeting, members also discussed ongoing spring and summer initiatives, including preparations for the Avenue of Flags program and upcoming youth‑focused activities. With Burrell now part of the team, club leaders expressed excitement about the fresh ideas and energy she brings to their efforts.

The Optimist Club of Delavan continues to welcome individuals who share a passion for community service and youth development. Residents interested in learning more about membership or upcoming projects are encouraged to reach out to any club member.

Delavan residents strolling through the city’s parks or along Locust Street may spot something new tucked between the flowers, benches and pathways—brightly painted rocks placed by AO’s Ice Cream Parlor as part of a summer‑long community treat hunt.

Beginning the week of May 17, AO’s is rolling out a whimsical promotion designed to get families exploring town while adding a little extra sweetness to their day. Dozens of hand‑painted rocks will be hidden throughout Delavan’s parks and along the Locust Street corridor. Each rock features a surprise on the bottom: a specific treat that can be redeemed at AO’s Ice Cream Parlor.

“Find a rock, bring it in and enjoy whatever treat is written underneath,” the AO’s team shared. “It’s our way of spreading joy, encouraging people to get outside and giving back to the community that has supported us from the beginning.”

Among the colorful stones is one especially coveted prize: a single gold rock. The lucky person who finds it will earn the chance to pick anything from AO’s full menu—no limits, no exclusions.

The promotion will continue until further notice, with new rocks added periodically to keep the hunt lively and ongoing. Families, kids, walkers and park‑goers are encouraged to keep their eyes open as they enjoy Delavan’s outdoor spaces.

AO’s, located at 316 S. Locust Street, has become known not only for its ice cream but for its community‑minded spirit. This latest activity adds another playful chapter to the parlor’s growing list of local traditions.

Those who find a rock can redeem it during regular business hours. AO’s encourages participants to snap a photo and share their discovery on social media to help spread the fun.

With warm weather arriving and parks filling with activity, the hunt is officially on—and Delavan’s sweetest treasure might be hiding right underfoot.
 

The Delavan United Methodist Church and Crosswalk Fellowship are teaming up once again to bring a beloved summer tradition to local families: Vacation Bible School, set for Monday–Thursday, June 1–4, from 9–11:30 a.m. each day.

This year’s theme, “Rainforest Falls,” invites children to step beneath a canopy alive with birds, monkeys, and vibrant color as they explore the nature of God. Through stories, music, crafts, games and hands-on activities, kids will learn what it means to be rooted in a relationship with their Creator — a God who remains a safe place in life’s storms.

VBS is open to children age 4 through those finishing 4th grade, while students 5th grade and older are encouraged to join the fun as helpers. All the classic elements families look forward to each summer will be back: energetic music, creative crafts, engaging Bible lessons, Scripture memory, outdoor games and of course, snacks.

Families may register online using the church’s digital form available via the QR Code for quick access.
Organizers are also seeking volunteers. Anyone interested in helping — especially those willing to guide groups of children from station to station — is encouraged to contact Sally Lessen. No prior experience is needed; a willing heart is all that’s required.
The church asks the community to keep the students, leaders, and volunteers in prayer as preparations continue for this meaningful ministry opportunity.

Marcia L. Harris, 74, of Delavan, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2026 at her home.

She was born January 23, 1952  in Bloomington to Vernon and Betty Greer Mitchell.  She married John Harris on February 5, 1971 in San Jose, and he survives.

Also surviving are her daughter, Dawn Harris (Johnny Kight), and his children, Ethan, Maya, and Eli, of Jackson, MO; two brothers, Mike Mitchell of Branson, MO and Mark Mitchell of Peoria.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Marcia graduated from Delavan High School in 1970 and retired from Walmart in Pekin after 25 years.

Marcia will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, caring sister and cherished friend whose kindness and generosity touched all who knew her.

After marrying her high school sweetheart, John, the couple began their life together in Okinawa while John served in the United States Air Force. During their time overseas, Marcia embraced the Okinawan culture and learned many traditions that enriched their married life together. Upon returning home, Marcia and John purchased their lifelong home at 4th and Harris Street in Delavan, Illinois, where they lovingly raised their daughter, Dawn.

Marcia’s passion for gardening and plants was evident to everyone who visited her home, both inside and out. She and John warmly welcomed family and friends for countless gatherings over the years, where her talents in cooking and baking created many treasured memories around the table. Her love for cats also brought great joy and companionship to her family throughout her life.

Together, Marcia and John shared many happy adventures attending NHRA drag races, antique car shows, and hockey games with their daughter Dawn and Marcia’s brother, Mike. Their travels also took them to Alaska, where they visited Mike and explored the state’s breathtaking natural beauty and historic sites. Other favorite vacations included trips to Branson, Missouri, enjoying scenic vineyard stops along the way, as well as the entertainment, shopping and attractions Branson had to offer. Visiting Mike there made those trips especially meaningful.

Marcia also treasured the many visits to Missouri to spend time with Dawn and her family during birthdays, holidays, and special celebrations. She especially loved baking and making Rice Krispie treats with the children, creating moments they will forever hold dear.

Marcia’s life was defined by her compassion, generosity and love for others. Her warm spirit, caring heart and unwavering devotion to family and friends will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her funeral was held at 11 am on Monday, May 11 at Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Delavan. Visitation was from 4 to 6 pm Sunday, May 10, also at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Prairie Rest Cemetery in Delavan.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Midwest Affiliate or Springfield Honor Flight.