The summer of 2006 will commemorate the 150th birthday of DeKalb – its sesquicentennial.

A reflection on the history and evolution of the city is planned a year early to make a successful celebration more likely. Mayor Frank Van Buer wants this celebration to surpass the previous milestone; DeKalb’s centennial in 1956.

Brainstorming began May 9 at the DeKalb City Council’s bi-weekly meeting. First on the agenda was forming a planning committee for the celebration. Its numbers changed from 14 to 20 members, then down to the current seven-member committee, with three additional members serving ex-officio.

According to the city of DeKalb, there are five official subcommittees: fundraising, historical information and time capsule, production and programming, public relations and outreach, and public works and public safety.

Glen Gildemeister, chair of production and programming, said some possible events include a parade around the Fourth of July, historic photograph exhibits, a Taste of DeKalb, and music and dance performances. They’re also hoping that annual events such as the Gurler House Folk Festival, the Ellwood House Art Fair, and History Day at the Glidden Heritage Association will incorporate the DeKalb Sesquicentennial Committee’s themes.

Up in the air is the degree to which NIU will be included. Van Buer, who attended and taught at NIU, has stressed “the celebration will concentrate on the expansion of Northern Illinois University” and that “NIU alums should be especially welcomed.”

Gildemeister said the kickoff event for DeKalb’s sesquicentennial will probably be the opening of the 1956 time capsule next spring.