The Delavan Park District is once again inviting residents, businesses, and community groups to help light up Veterans Park this holiday season by sponsoring a Christmas tree along the park’s sidewalks.

For $50, participants will receive a tree, lights, and a personalized sign. Sponsors are welcome to decorate their trees to reflect their own festive flair, but organizers ask that decorations exclude glass ornaments and garland, and that all items be securely fastened to withstand winter weather.

Tree availability is limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. This beloved tradition brings warmth and cheer to the heart of Delavan, and early sign-up is encouraged to ensure a spot in this year’s display.

For more information or to reserve a tree, contact the Delavan Park District office at parkdistrictdelavan@gmail.com, or call/text Delavan Park District President Becky Lowry at (309) 840-5168, or download a form here and return it with payment to the Bank of Pontiac (formerly First Farmers) at 301 Locust Street, in Delavan.

A fresh wave of community spirit is sweeping through Downtown Delavan with the arrival of The Panther Closet, a new resale boutique opening its doors at 313 S. Locust Street. Modeled after the familiar charm of Goodwill-style shops, this locally rooted venture promises more than just secondhand treasures—it’s a mission-driven space designed to uplift, recycle, and reconnect.

The Panther Closet is more than a thrift store—it’s a celebration of Delavan’s resourceful spirit. Stocked with gently used clothing, accessories, home goods, and seasonal décor, the shop offers affordable finds for every age and style. Whether you’re a college student on a budget, a parent hunting for back-to-school bargains, or a vintage lover on the prowl, The Panther Closet aims to be your go-to destination.

But what truly sets it apart is its community-first ethos. Proceeds from the shop will support local initiatives, including school programs, civic events, and youth mentorship opportunities. A portion of the proceeds will be donated directly back into the community—whether to organizations or to help fund beloved local events. The name itself—The Panther Closet—is a nod to Delavan’s school mascot, reinforcing its commitment to hometown pride and Panther spirit.

In addition to traditional resale offerings, the store will feature a dedicated consignment vendor area, giving local artisans, crafters, and small-scale sellers a platform to showcase their goods. From handmade jewelry and upcycled furniture to boutique clothing and seasonal crafts, this space will rotate regularly, highlighting the creativity of the Delavan community.

The Panther Closet is currently accepting donations of clean, gently used items. Community members can drop off donations at Trio’s Pizzeria during their normal operating hours, or reach out directly to Adam White for coordination. Every donated item helps stock the shelves and support the store’s mission of giving back.

Located in the heart of downtown, the storefront at 313 S. Locust has seen many lives. Now, with fresh paint, curated racks, and a welcoming layout, it’s been transformed into a bright, inviting space that encourages browsing, conversation, and connection. Volunteers are helping with setup, merchandising, and donation sorting—making it a true community effort from the ground up.

In an era of fast fashion and rising costs, The Panther Closet offers a sustainable alternative. By giving clothes and household items a second life, the shop helps reduce waste while making style accessible to all. Donation drops will be available during business hours, and the team encourages residents to contribute clean, gently used items.

The Panther Closet is expected to open the weekend of November 22nd, and 23rd.

Whether you’re cleaning out your closet or looking for a unique gift, every purchase and donation helps fuel local programs and build a stronger Delavan.

The Panther Closet is more than a store—it’s a statement. A statement that Delavan believes in second chances, shared stories, and the power of community. Stop by, say hello, and see what treasures await.

As Tazewell County prepares to celebrate its Bicentennial in April 2027, a series of monthly tributes is underway to honor the 22 individuals who have served as County Clerk since the office was first established on April 10, 1827. Led by current Clerk and Recorder of Deeds John C. Ackerman and his immediate predecessor, former Clerk Christie A. Webb, the initiative highlights the diverse lives and legacies of those who held this foundational role in county government.

From surgeons and cigar company owners to a race car driver and federal appointees, the office has been shaped by a remarkable array of public servants. Among them, five received presidential appointments, one served in the State Legislature, and another was named Assistant Secretary of State. The youngest to serve was just 22 years old; the oldest, 64.

Each month on the 10th, a floral wreath from The Greenhouse Flower Shoppe in Pekin is placed at the gravesite of one former Clerk. This month marks the fifth tribute in the series, spotlighting Richard W. Ireland, who served from 1849 to 1853.

Born March 31, 1827, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Ireland moved with his family to Tazewell County in 1836, settling near Tremont. A practicing attorney, he briefly served as Deputy Circuit Clerk and Deputy Sheriff before being elected County Clerk at the age of 22—the youngest ever to hold the position.

Ireland lived in Pekin during his tenure, and he partnered with Roberts & Ireland at the law firm on Court Street. He never married and resided at the Tazewell House Hotel. Notably, he was involved in 17 of Abraham Lincoln’s cases in Tazewell County, serving as Deputy Circuit Clerk in fifteen of them.

In his final years, Ireland returned to Tremont to live with his sister. He passed away on March 18, 1871, and is buried at Tennessee Point Cemetery alongside his parents.

Biographical research for this series is provided by Susan Rynerson of the Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society and Jared Olar of the Pekin Public Library. Their work ensures that each Clerk’s story is preserved and shared as the county builds momentum toward its historic Bicentennial.

On Wednesday, November 5th, the Ayer Public Library Committee commenced its monthly meeting at 6:00 pm sharp. Before the meeting, the board members talked about their recent Halloweens and what their favorite candy is. This meeting also unveiled the new carpeting that was voted on in the past meeting to end the dizzy spells caused by the old carpet’s pattern. Fear not, though, the old carpet squares will not go to waste; they’re to be used as floor seating for children at library events. 

At this meeting, there was a quite special topic discussed. Our little library has just received a gift of  $10,000 from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The Ayer Public Library has been a proud Carnegie Library since 1913, when Carrie A. Briggs, the library board secretary, reached out to the Carnegie Endowment Fund to request funding to build a Carnegie Library in Delavan. Andrew Carnegie, a lover of literature, education, and a believer in the importance of public libraries, wanted his amassed wealth to make education more accessible around the country. This was to pay tribute to his upbringing and the library that helped him become who he was. The foundation agreed that this town needed a library building and granted $10,000 to the cause, though it took about a year of correspondence. The final decision was approved in 1913, and within a year, the library was erected in 1914 from that $10,000 donation. All Carnegie Libraries that remain now were granted the same gift this year. While 10 thousand dollars isn’t enough to build another building of that beauty and stature, it is an amazing amount of money that is going into building restoration and upkeep. Though they’re not quite sure what they’re going to spend the money on yet, rest assured, they have plenty of wonderful ideas circling for it! They’ll be announcing once they have reached a decision. 

Mel Clauser has been busy as a bee working with the community to consult them on Medicare Part D. A cause that’s been going well, as townsfolk are keeping his sessions fully booked. If you qualify for Medicare Part D, or wish to find out if you do, consider signing up for one of these sessions. 

Ahead of the holiday season, the committee voted to set the library staff’s holiday bonus. These hard workers will be finding out what their gift is soon. They also made the decision to turn the water off in the old annex building during the winter months. The water will be turned back on once it begins to warm up. This decision will save the Library 60 dollars a month and protect the pipes from damage, as they won’t be needed during this time, and water would otherwise be left in them to freeze. The next meeting was announced to take place on Wednesday, December 3rd. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm. 

CORRECTION

An earlier version of the article, published on November 9, included several inaccuracies. The year the library became a Carnegie Library was 1913, not 1908. The article also incorrectly stated that founder Amos K. Ayer contacted the Carnegie Foundation for funding; in fact, the grant request was submitted in 1912 by library board secretary Carrie A. Briggs, four years after Ayer’s death. Additionally, a paragraph mistakenly described a board report as being prepared for the Illinois Library Association, when it was actually part of a grant application to the Illinois State Library. That paragraph has been removed. We regret the error.

Last week, Delavan’s FFA Chapter attended the National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, held in the Lucas Oil Stadium. The National Convention is one of the largest student leadership gatherings in the country, bringing in FFA members from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In addition to the formal delegate work and awards, the conference offered its members ag-industry tours, a career expo, and leadership workshops. This experience allowed Delavan’s FFA members to connect with other chapters, explore future agriculture careers, and strengthen their leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.

The atmosphere at the conference was unlike anything many of these students had experienced before. From the energetic and loud sessions to the constant buzz in the expo hall, the FFA National Convention was filled with exciting new opportunities. This year, Delavan FFA had the honor of hosting the Inter-State Tailgate Social, an event designed to bring different chapters together to network, share experiences, and have fun. Additionally, this year marked Delavan’s FFA advisor and teacher, Theo Allen’s tenth National Convention. His dedication and passion for agriculture continue to guide and inspire the chapter.

Representing Delavan at the National Convention were juniors Riley Fann, Jaxton Westbrook, McKinleigh Sipka, Isaac Meeker, Maddy Albers, and seniors Kaelenn Morris and Annalise Clendenny. These dedicated FFA members not only took part in leadership opportunities but also had lasting memories throughout the trip. On the way home, the chapter was able to visit Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, and the Louisville Sluggers warehouse. Reflecting on the experience, Maddy Albers stated, “The vibes at National Convention were amazing. Everyone was happy, excited, and full of energy. People made new friends, laughed a lot, and had the best time.”

Overall, the trip was an unforgettable experience for the Delavan FFA Chapter. The members returned home energized, inspired, and excited to continue growing through FFA. The chapter looks forward to applying their knowledge and experiences to the school and community. Delavan FFA is proud to represent its school at the national level and is already looking forward to next year’s convention.