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NIU President Lisa Freeman to retire by June 2028
Freeman was sworn in as NIU’s first woman president
By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com
Northern Illinois University President Lisa Freeman recently announced plans to retire by June 2028, almost a decade after she was sworn in as the institution’s first woman president.
Freeman announced her plans in a letter to the campus community and also at a Board of Trustees meeting in DeKalb.
“Since joining NIU in 2010, positioning the university for long-term success, while honoring its mission, vision and values, has been of paramount importance to me,” Freeman said in the letter. “[...] Sharing this decision well in advance supports careful succession planning, institutional continuity and the ability to move important work forward without disruption.”
Freeman’s expected to serve in the role until her retirement effective June 30, 2028.
Her departure will come almost 10 years after she was installed as NIU’s 13th president in April 2019, the first woman to serve in the role.
Freeman came to NIU in 2010 as vice president of research and graduate studies, and later served as executive vice president and provost.
She was appointed in an interim capacity to the executive spot in 2017 after her predecessor, Doug Baker, resigned in the wake of a state investigation that concluded he’d “mismanaged”
PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzlesonpage19
the university.
Freeman at the time said she didn’t intend to stay in the role permanently.
Nine years later, she called the experience “an incredible honor.”
The Board also voted to approve a one-year extension to her contract, The Northern Star reported.
In a Board agenda summary, trustees said Freeman has undergone eight evaluations as president, the last in December 2025.
“[A]nd her performance has consistently shown the Board that her vision and priorities remain clear, her results are measurable and impactful, the opportunities for improved outcomes
are well defined, and there’s a plan for moving NIU forward that is aligned with our university’s mission and values,” according to the summary.
Freeman’s base salary for each of the final fiscal years of her contract was approved at $515,000.
“Serving as president of Northern Illinois University is an incredible honor, and I’m grateful to the members of NIU’s Board of Trustees for asking me to extend my contract,” she wrote in the letter. “Their continued confidence in my leadership and our community is an important catalyst in our collective ability to advance the university’s goals and the success of each student.”
All rights reserved. Copyright 2026 ON THE COVER
Brighid Reid stands with a DeKalb County Regional Office of Education spelling bee mascot at Sycamore High School on Feb. 21.
See story, page 6.
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Photo provided by Pamela Reid
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Board of Trustees Chair Dennis Barsema (left) and former chair Wheeler Coleman applaud Northern Illinois University President Lisa C. Freeman during her installation ceremony on April 7, 2019, in the Boutell Memorial Concert Hall in the NIU Music Building.
Kishwaukee Valley Art League events set for April
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Kishwaukee Valley Art League will host several programs and events in April at the Gallery on State, 322 W. State St., Sycamore.
KVAL’s next general meeting is set for 7 p.m. April 2 at the gallery. The league will present awards honoring DeKalb and Sycamore high school students as part of its “Art of Giving” program. The students were selected by instructors in recognition for their artwork.
The league will install its next art rotation April 6. The rotation features various art pieces including sculptures, paintings, photography and mixed-media installations. The artwork will be displayed for upcoming exhibitions and sales. The rotation also will include the featured artists of the month for April Frankie Benson and Linda Thornton Peterson
KVAL will participate in Sycamore’s “Taste of Spring” event April 9. The event includes wine, appetizers and art created by local artists. Attendees who register also may win a gift basket. To register, visit Old National Bank, 230 W. State St., Sycamore. Tickets are avail -
able to buy. For information or to buy tickets, visit discoversycamore.com/ events/taste-of-spring.
The Second Saturday Art Workshop is set from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 11 at the Gallery on State.
The league will offer a wood burning class from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 18 at the gallery. Participants can learn about wood burning fundamentals. Supplies will be provided. The class costs $40. Registration is required. To register, visit kval-nfp.org, the league’s Facebook page or the Gallery on State.
KVAL is participating in the annual Give DeKalb County May 7. The league 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-valley-art-league or be sent via the mail from April 23 through May 7. Donation forms are available at the gallery.
The league’s 55th annual Northern Illinois Art show will be held 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.
Photo provided by the Kishwaukee Valley Art League
Art piece created by artist Frankie Benson
DeKalb American Legion Post accepting banner program applications
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The DeKalb American Legion Post 66 will hold its DeKalb Hometown Heroes banner program to support local efforts in honor of the U.S. 250th anniversary in DeKalb County.
The DeKalb Hometown Hero Banner program is a joint city of DeKalb and DeKalb American Legion Post 66 program.
“We are very excited to announce the 2026 version of the DeKalb Hometown Hero banner program,” DeKalb American Legion Post 66 commander Manual Olalde said in a news release. “All three of our divisions [Legion Veterans, Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of the Legion] are working hard to make this year’s version of DeKalb Hometown Hero even more special.”
The legion’s 2026 DeKalb Hometown Hero Banner program committee includes DeKalb American Legion Auxiliary president Sarah Newby, legion veteran Charlotte Hodder, legion veteran Joe Hodder, and legion veteran Fred Menke. The banners were created to honor and recognize local veterans and military members who currently or previously lived in the DeKalb area.
“We are extremely proud of our DeKalb Hometown Hero banners and the recognition we give to our veteran community,” former city of DeKalb Mayor Jerry Smith also said in the release. “We are truly a veteran community, from the banner program to the reserved parking spaces for veterans, a street named to honor veterans, our veteran corner [1st and Locust], the World War I clock, and the various Memorial sights, including our gateway welcome to DeKalb, The DeKalb Veteran Memorial Plaza located on Annie Glidden, adjacent to the DeKalb Elk Lodge. In 2024, the city of DeKalb was recognized as the state of Illinois Veteran City of the Year.”
Veterans, military members or a friend or family member must complete a banner application. Participants also can replace a former banner. The applications also must include a five-inch by seven-inch photo of the service member in uniform, military verification and $125 check made out to the legion post with “Hometown Heroes Banner” in the memo line. Due to limited banner locations, the applications will be accepted first-come, firstserved. Applications can be submitted from March 1 through April 15. To apply, call 815-756-4551 or email AmericanLegionDeKalb@gmail.com.
Photo provided by Michael Embrey
DeKalb American Legion Post 66 DeKalb Hometown Heroes banner program military banner sample
Sycamore church to hold ‘Journey to the Cross’ event March 28
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
St. John Lutheran Church will hold a “Journey to the Cross” sensory learning event and walk for community members to learn about Christ’s Passion.
The event begins at 10 a.m. March 28 at the church, 26555 Brickville Road, Sycamore.
Attendees will be able to learn about and witness Jesus during Holy Week. Registration is encouraged. Walk-ins also will be allowed. To register, call 815-895-4477
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Sycamore church partners with Hy-Vee on steak dinner fundraiser for local charities
First Lutheran Church’s Social Ministry Team will hold a steak dinner fundraiser to support local charities.
The fundraiser will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. April 9 at Hy-Vee, 2700 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore. Participants don’t need to register in advance and are welcome on the day. The dinner features a steak, mashed potatoes and vegetables. The meal costs $12.
The proceeds will be equally divided between the Salvation Army Food Pantry, Safe Passage, Love, Inc., and Hope Haven.
Community shoe giveaway set for March 27 in DeKalb
The Community Shoe Box, Center for Counseling and Family Service Agency will hold a booth at the DeKalb Public Library for needy residents to receive shoes.
The free booth will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. March 27 in the library’s main lobby, 309 Oak St. Attendees can select shoes for themselves or present family members. Participants also will be able to learn about the organizations available programs and resources. No registration is required.
For information, call 815-756-9568, ext. 2100, or email brittak@dkpl.org.
– Shaw Local News Network
Photo provided by St. John Lutheran Church
St. John Lutheran Church’s 2025 Journey to the Cross
Spelling bee champ heads to Scripps National Bee in D.C.
Somonauk 8th grader is back-to-back regional top speller
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
A member of the National Society of the Children of the American Revolution from Sandwich will participate in the National Spelling Bee inside Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., in two months.
After winning the DeKalb County Regional Office of Education Spelling Bee for the second year in a row on Feb. 21, Brighid Reid, 14, of Sandwich, will return to the Scripps National Spelling Bee on May 26.
Her father, Jim Reid, said he believes she is making history as a member of the National Society of Children of the American Revolution – a youth spinoff of the Daughters of the American Revolution organization. Reid’s also on the La Salle County Board.
“From what we can find, Brighid may be the only one that’s ever competed [in the Scripps National Spelling Bee,]” Jim Reid said. “For the first time ever it’s going to be at Constitution Hall and as a member of DAR she’ll be competing at ... basically in her own house.”
The Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall, 1776 D. St. NW, Washington, D.C., opened in 1929 as a convention center for the organization. It was designated a National Historic Building in 1985.
Brighid Reid thought about her grandmother when asked what getting to compete inside Constitution Hall meant to her.
“It makes me very happy because I know that if my grandmother was alive to see me going to Constitution Hall, she’d be the first one on the plane,” Reid said. “She’d be so happy.”
Pamela Reid, Brighid’s mother, said the family is hoping to have Brighid meet with Daughters of the American Revolution leadership while in Washington the week of Memorial Day.
“We’re very proud of her,” Pamela Reid said. “Her spelling career could not have ended better than her competing at Constitution Hall. I think
that’s such an honor.”
No matter how she performs, the 2026 National Spelling Bee will be the last competition of Brighid Reid’s spelling bee career. As a Somonauk Middle School eighth grader, she is aging out of spelling competitions, but has made a legacy for herself.
On March 17, weeks after securing the regional spelling bee title, Brighid helped Somonauk Middle School win a Junior 10 conference championship Spelling Bee for the third consecutive year. She was the overall winner of that event.
She is the first student from Somonauk Community School District 432 to win consecutive titles at the DeKalb County Regional Office of Education Spelling Bee.
“It just shows she definitely is good at studying,” Pamela Reid said. “She’s definitely good at spelling because
studying, so I’m really proud of her.”
The last time a student won the DeKalb County regional spelling bee in back-to-back years was in 2022, when Max Foley, a student at St. Mary School in DeKalb, won his second title.
“She works really hard at this,” Jim Reid said, of his daughter.
Brighid Reid said she credits much of her spelling ability to her mother’s push to have her read significant literature from the likes of John Steinbeck and Ernest Hemingway when she was 8.
She also credited her mom, who has learned the pronunciations of the 4,000 words they’ve studied together to prepare for the national bee.
she’s won twice now, so it wasn’t just a fluke. She definitely has shown the same amount of rigor around her
“I’d just like to say my mom is my biggest supporter and the only reason I’m doing so well in spelling bees is because of her,” Brighid Reid said.
Photos provided by Pamela Reid
Brighid Reid stands with her mother, Pamela Reid, and her father, La Salle County Board member Jim Reid, R-District 4, after winning her second consecutive DeKalb County Regional Office of Education Spelling Bee on Feb. 21.
Brighid Reid won her second straight DeKalb County Regional Office of Education Spelling Bee Feb. 21 at Sycamore High School.
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THE SACRED TRIDUUM
HOLY THURSDAY APRIL 2ND
7:00PM MASS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER
8:30PM - 12AM GETHSEMANE ADORATION
GOOD FRIDAY APRIL 3RD
NOON - OUTDOOR STATIONS OF THE CROSS
3:00PM - THE PASSION OF OUR LORD
4PM - 9PM PRIVATE PRAYER & VENERATION
EASTER VIGIL
APRIL 4TH
8:00PM RESURRECTION VIGIL MASS
EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 5TH
8:00AM - EASTER SUNDAY MASS
10:00AM - EASTER SUNDAY MASS
Rooted For Good Grow Mobile dates set for April
Rooted For Good Grow Mobile dates set for April
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Rooted For Good released a list of April locations for Grow Mobile, a mobile food pantry that offers free food and household items to all who visit, with no requirements necessary.
Rooted For Good works to ensure the well-being of residents, staff and volunteers. Organizers ask that people practice good hand hygiene and stay home if they are ill.
To receive Grow Mobile alerts, text FreeGroceries to 844-727-2012.
Grow Mobile dates in April are:
• 4 to 5 p.m. April 1 at Hinckley First United Methodist Church, 801 N. Sycamore St., Hinckley
• 3 to 5 p.m. April 2 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
• 3:30 to 5 p.m. April 7 at the Malta Historical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta
• 11 a.m. to noon April 9 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
• 3 to 5 p.m. April 14 at the Cortland Lions Club Shelter, 70 S. Llanos St., Cortland
• 3:30 to 5 p.m. April 16 at the Malta Historical and Genealogical Society, 127 N. Third St., Malta
• 3 to 5 p.m. April 21 at University Village Apartments, 722 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
• 11 a.m. to noon April 23 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb
• 4 to 6 p.m. April 28 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 340 W. Arnold Road, Sandwich
LOOKING BACK
1926 – 100 YEARS AGO
Relative to the fight that will be made to break the will of the late Jacob Haish, DeKalb pioneer and inventor barbed wire, is contained in a statement made by Attorney David J. Peffers, of Aurora, who is representing the relatives in the suit that is expected to be started soon. “Suit will be filed to set aside the will,” Mr. Peffers said, “on the grounds that Mr. Haish was not of sound mind at the time it was made. He was 94 years old when it was drawn. He had been in failing health and had been blind for several years before his death.” The aged manufacturer left nothing to his relatives, bequeathing practically his entire estate, worth from $500,000 to $800,000, according to different estimates, for the erection and maintenance of a Haish memorial public library and a Haish memorial hospital in DeKalb.
Although the spring weather of the past few days did much to remove the frost from the ground, there is still much to be removed, according to John Anderson, DeKalb drain and sewer contractor, who has had a force of men at work this week. In the city, where the ground has been protected by buildings, thus not allowing the sun to have much effect, there is almost a foot of frost at the present time. In the country fields, the frost is only a few inches deep and a few more days of warm weather should find the earth soft.
Contractors started work today at The Aggravation, which is operated by Jack Cook. The plans call for a basement under the place, and additional room so that an ice machine may be installed. A large refrigerator also is to be installed just off the kitchen which will make it far more convenient to get meals and other articles required by the one in the kitchen.
There were many babies at the clinic held at the welfare building of the American Steel & Wire company today, although it is reported that there is much sickness among the little folks of town.
If the wind that prevailed in this vicinity yesterday, especially with the warm sun, could continue for a period of two or
homes in the DeKalb County area. The 6-foot-tall stuffed bunnies in a wide range of contrasting color, will go to lucky shoppers registering at various participating stores.
Nothing very unusual happened in the house on North Cross Street in Sycamore. Sam and Esther Sparrow moved there 59 years ago. A son was born to them in 1918, a daughter in 1933. Sam changed jobs a few times, as did Esther. Both their children married, their daughter producing four grandchildren. Now retired in their 80s, Sam and Esther Sparrow last week celebrated their 80th anniversary in the same house they celebrated their fist.
2001 – 25 YEARS AGO
three days there would be noticeable difference in the condition of the roads leading into Sycamore.
1951 – 75 YEARS AGO
The boy’s homemaking class has recently begun its fourth year. This course put in its first appearance in 1947 as a result of a suggestion by Mrs. Colvin. It is a single semester course and is offered to senior boys only. The present class of 23 has just completed units of cooking, clothing selection, housing and interior decorating and a unit on child care.
Statistics for the DeKalb County high school skin testing program conducted by the DeKalb County Tuberculosis Association in 1950-1951 are now completed. The tuberculin test is given for the purpose of determining the incidence of infection throughout DeKalb County.
Kirkland’s Woman’s Society of Christian Services will send a case of eggs to Wesley Memorial Hospital, Chicago and another case to the Lake Bluff Orphanage for Easter.
DeKalb stores will close for three hours tomorrow during the time of the Good Friday union services at the First Lutheran Church. The stores will close at noon and reopen at 3 p.m. and will then remain open until the usual Friday closing hour. All will have an opportunity to attend
the services.
During the night the office of the McMurry Training School was entered and efforts made to open the safe. Nothing was reported stolen. Entrance to the office was gained by prying the lock off the door and the burglars had tried to pry open the door to the safe but were not successful. One of the burglars must have cut a finger as blood was spattered on the file cabinet door.
Judge Harry W. McEwen, DeKalb, today ruled for the second time that Waterman Consolidated School District 184 was legally constituted in a quo warranto hearing against the directors. The request to call the district invalid because the original publication of the notice of election was made only nine days prior to the election instead of the required ten days was made originally two months ago in quo warranto proceedings filed by the state’s attorney’s office.
1976 – 50 YEARS AGO
In an unprecedented decision, President Ford wants every man, woman and child in America vaccinated before next winter to avoid “a dangerous epidemic” of flu from a swine virus dormant for almost half a century.
Bunnies from Chronicleland await the approaching date when they will all find
Route 23 pavement removal will begin Monday, beginning at the intersection of Center Cross Street and Grant Avenue and working south toward DeKalb Avenue. Motorists wishing to get to the downtown should use the detour on Peace Road to Highway 64.
Construction has begun on the $1.5 million cardiac rehabilitation atrium at Kishwaukee Community Hospital. The steel framework, fabricated locally by Hiatt Bros.-EB Inc., has been erected awaiting arrival of the glass roof. The 6,000-square-foot atrium, which will include a multilane walking track for cardiac rehab patients, is being built between two wings of the hospital.
With sparkle and smoke and exploding dirt, ground was broken on the $20 million Barsema Hall, Northern Illinois University’s new College of Business building. NIU opted to take a nontraditional approach for the ground breaking by using a display of low-level fireworks to outline the footprint of the building.
Its journey has taken it through three states and lasted almost 80 years, but a group of local firefighters are hoping to bring Sycamore’s first fire truck home to its final destination. Sycamore firefighter Jim Lyon is head of a group called The Sycamore Firefighters Preservation Company that is looking to collect funds to buy the truck back from a collector in Indiana. – Compiled by Sue Breese
Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives
Looking northeast at McMurry Training School (now McMurry Hall) at Northern Illinois State Teachers College (later NIU), circa 1925.
Devon Wilcox secures Democratic nod
By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com
The sole contested primary race for a DeKalb County Board seat was likely decided by voters March 17, if unofficial results hold.
Democrat Devon Wilcox will take on Republican Suzanne Fahnestock for a 2-year unexpired term seat in District 5 in November’s general election, according to unofficial vote tallies.
The Democrat faceoff against challenger Daniel Vantilburg saw just over 600 votes total in one of DeKalb County’s only contested local races.
Wilcox secured 425 votes to Vantilburg’s 178 votes.
Seats are up in every other district in November, which will see Republicans and Democrats face off for a board that currently is majority Republican.
The primary election saw more residents choose Democratic ballots over Republicans. Few, if any, ballots had contested local races.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Medicare workshops set for March 26 and 28 in DeKalb Seniors and adults can learn about available Medicare insurance options during two workshops at the DeKalb Public Library.
The free workshops will begin at 11 a.m. March 26 and 28 in the library’s lower-level Zimmerman Meeting Room, 309 Oak St. Attendees can learn about Medicare insurance options. Licensed sales representative Carol Cherry will discuss how to find the right plan, Medicare’s different parts and how to make the right choice. No registration is required.
For information, email samanthah@dkpl. org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 1701.
DeKalb library to hold open mic event March 31
The DeKalb Public Library will hold an open mic event for adults and teens to celebrate Trans Day of Visibility.
The free event will be held at 7 p.m. March 31 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.
Voters faced more choices at the congressional and state house level, including the race for who will succeed retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and who will face incumbent Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker, who seeks a third term in November.
DeKalb city voters had a congressional GOP primary in the race for who will seek to unseat incumbent Democrat state Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel in the 76th District. Unofficial results set up a rematch between Briel and Liz Bishop.
According to data reported by the DeKalb County Clerk and Recorder’s Office, 7,309 residents voted Democrat compared to 5,184 Republican voters. Overall, 12,505 ballots were cast, including 8,677 on Election Day, 1,576 mail-in and 2,252 early voting ballots.
Attendees will be able to perform various types of art mediums. The art mediums may include poetry, stories, painting or songs. Due to limited performance time slots, the event is first-come, first-served. No registration is required.
For information or to perform, email emilyb@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2150.
Disable community members social event set for March 28
Community members ages 16 and older with disabilities can attend a program to interact and socialize with each other at the DeKalb Public Library.
The free program begins at 2 p.m. March 28 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St.
The program includes crafts, puzzles and games. Snacks and light refreshments will be served. Caregivers are encouraged to attend. No registration is required.
For information, email leahh@dkpl.org or call 815-756-6-9568, ext. 2112.
– Shaw Local
Network
Devon Wilcox
What candidates raised campaigning in Districts 70, 76
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
Some candidates seeking seats in the Illinois House of Representatives in Districts 70 and 76 raised more campaign dollars than others, according to new spending records recently released by the Illinois State Board of Elections.
District 70 includes portions of DeKalb, Kane and McHenry counties. District 76 includes portions of DeKalb, Bureau and La Salle counties.
Under state law, any individual or political committee receiving or spending campaign contributions of at least $5,000 over the course of the year is required to report them to the State Board of Elections.
The primary election took place on March 17, and the results are expected to be certified March 31.
In the GOP race for State Representative for District 70 was incumbent Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore. He ran unopposed in the primary and seeks a fourth term.
In the 70th Democratic race was Veronica Garcia-Martinez, D-Cortland. She also ran unopposed in the primary
resentative for District 76 was incumbent Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa. She ran unopposed in the primary election and seeks a second term.
In the GOP race for State Representative for District 76 was Liz Bishop, R-Peru. She won a contested primary election against challenger Crystal Loughran and is headed for a rematch against Briel in November.
Briel raised about $6,355, according to state election records. Her biggest donors were Zion-Barton, Clayton Residential Home, Barton Senior Residences of Chicago and Central Plaza Nursing Home.
Briel’s campaign spent about $10,959, records show.
and will face Keicher on Nov. 3.
Keicher raised about $27,460, according to state election records. His biggest donors were Midwest Gaming and Entertainment, Sports Betting Alliance, Allstate Insurance Company and Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits.
Keicher’s campaign spent about
NORTHERN ILLINOIS CARRY
$24,725, records show.
Garcia-Martinez raised about $1,290, according to state election records. Her biggest donors were Act Blue, A1 Dental and SweetButts Cotton Candy.
Garcia-Martinez’s campaign spent about $658, records show.
In the Democratic race for State Rep-
Bishop raised about $20,450, according to state election records. Her biggest donors were Don Tracy, Douglas Layhew and Inga Carus.
Bishop’s campaign spent about $11,337, records show.
Loughran raised about $300, according to state election records. Her biggest donor was Dan O’Connell.
Loughran’s campaign spent about $525, records show.
Mark Busch
Voters arrive to cast their ballots in the primary election Tuesday at the DeKalb County Administration Building in Sycamore.
Sycamore fire chief placed on paid leave a week before city announced it
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
Former Sycamore Fire Chief Bart Gilmore was placed on paid administrative leave a week before city officials informed the public of their decision to move on from almost three years of Gilmore’s leadership at the Sycamore Fire Department.
Emails between City Manager Michael Hall, Deputy Fire Chief Jim Ward and other city officials reveal that Gilmore was placed on paid administrative leave on Feb. 25. Shaw Local obtained the emails through a public records request.
That was eight days before March 5, when a firefighter told Shaw Local that Gilmore wasn’t in charge anymore. The city at the time refused to say who was leading the department, amid social media rumors that alleged Gilmore’s departure. And nine days before Feb. 25, Gilmore led the celebratory opening of the city’s newest fire station Feb. 17, an estimated $10.5 million endeavor.
It remains unclear if Gilmore still is on paid leave or if he’s cut all ties with the city. According to city records, Gilmore’s base salary in fiscal 2026 was set at $151,092.
Hall was asked March 19 why Sycamore residents spent a week unaware
that Gilmore had been placed on administrative leave. He declined to provide details.
“The city does not comment on personnel matters,” Hall said, echoing comments he’s made on the matter since the chief transition went public.
This is not the first time Hall and other city officials have refused to elaborate on the change in fire department leadership.
Hall refused to answer (in person and via email) whether Gilmore remained the city’s fire chief on the morning of March 5. The night before, online rumors about Gilmore’s employment status had begun to circulate on social media.
Sycamore Mayor Steve Braser declined to comment on the matter when reached the evening of March 4 and again in the days after. He did not respond to requests for comment for this story on March 19.
At about 10 a.m. on March 5, Hall told Shaw Local that the city planned to recruit a new fire chief. That was more than an hour after a Sycamore
See FIRE CHIEF, page 14
Camden Lazenby file photo
Former Sycamore Fire Chief Bart Gilmore was placed on paid administrative leave on Feb. 25, a week before city officials informed the public of their decision to move on from almost three years of Gilmore’s leadership at the Sycamore Fire Department.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Harken back to ‘Good Tymes’ for all with Sycamore picnic documentary screenings
The DeKalb County History Center will offer three screenings of the “Let the ‘Good Tymes’ Roll” documentary for community members to learn about community picnics held back in the 1970s and 1980s.
The free screenings will be held at 5:30 p.m. March 27 and at noon and 5:30 p.m. March 28 at Sycamore State Theater, 420 W. State St. Participants can ask questions and share stories after the screening. Documentary copies will be available to buy for $10. Sale proceeds will go towards the history center.
The Good Tymes picnics were held across DeKalb County from the 1970s through the 1980s. The picnics featured an
• FIRE CHIEF
Continued from page 13
firefighter said Ward was acting as the city’s interim fire chief.
On March 7, city officials issued a news release on fire department staffing without addressing the employment status of Gilmore, the city’s highest-paid firefighter.
The city appointed retired DeKalb Fire Chief Mike Thomas as Sycamore’s new interim chief effective March 9.
Gilmore told the Sycamore City Council in February that there weren’t enough firefighters to staff a ladder truck when a fire broke out on Jan. 31 at the Tom & Jerry’s Restaurant. Online rumors have suggested the change in Gilmore’s employment status was related to that fire, but Shaw Local hasn’t confirmed whether that’s true or not. And the city has offered no reasons for his departure.
Thomas, who retired in 2025 after more than 30 years in DeKalb, was sworn in during an unpublicized ceremony March 10. Thomas said later that day that he plans to talk with city officials about the department’s staffing needs “when the time’s right.”
When Ward was informally acting as the city’s fire chief, he also sought to speak with the city manager about the department’s direction, records show.
“Michael, when you are ready I would very much like to have a con -
annual T-shirt, live music and food. Pre-registration is encouraged. To register, visit dekalbcountyhistory.org or call 815-895-5762.
DeKalb library to offer vinyl decals creation program
Adults and teens can learn how to create vinyl decals during a program at the DeKalb Public Library.
The free program will begin at 6 p.m. March 30 in the library’s 309 Creative makerspace, 309 Oak St.
Participants can design and cut vinyl decals with the Cricut Design Space. Beginners will be welcomed. Due to limited space, the program is first-come, first-served. No registration is required.
For information, email penn@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6111.
– Shaw Local News Network
versation with you about the short term and long term plans for the Fire Department,” Ward wrote in a Feb. 25 email.
Ward told fire department personnel that Gilmore had been placed on leave in an email sent at 12:28 p.m. on Feb. 25, records show.
“I will be assuming all the on-call Chief coverage for the short term,” Ward wrote to the department. “Obviously, more to follow soon and as always feel free to reach out - my door is open and the phone is on.”
About 30 minutes later, Ward emailed Hall and City Human Resources Manager Valerie St. James to tell them that the fire department had been informed of the leadership change. In that email, Ward wrote that he appreciated a call he had with Hall earlier in the day, as well as a conversation with St. James.
In his response, Hall thanked Ward for his leadership and for “stepping in to ensure continuity of operations and on-call coverage during this time.”
He also replied to Ward’s request for a meeting about the fire department’s future.
“At this time, our focus is on maintaining stable operations,” Hall wrote. “When appropriate, we will schedule time to discuss both short-term coordination and longer-term considerations.”
About two hours later, at 3:41 p.m. on Feb. 25, Hall emailed the city’s other administrative staff to say that Gilmore was placed on leave.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 900 Normal Road, DeKalb
Maundy Thursday, April 2, 6:00 P.M. Good Friday, April 3
Stations of the Cross, 12:00 P.M. Good Friday Service, 6:00 P.M. Easter Vigil, April 4, 6:00 P.M. Easter Sunday, April 5, 9:30 A.M.
Services
All Services except the Stations of the Cross will be Streamed via You Tube See Church website for links
Office Phone: 815-756-4888
Email: stpaulsdekalb@gmail.com
Website: www.stpaulsdekalb.org
Wintry weather leads to ‘slow but steady’ voter turnout
DeKalb
County voters see few choices on local primary races
By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com
Election judges at the one DeKalb County polling place that accepts voters from all DeKalb County precincts had seen about 40 voters just before 10 a.m. March 17 for the 2026 primary election.
Cindy Henderson was one of the two election judges working the polling place located inside the DeKalb County Administrative Building’s Conference Room East at 9:45 a.m.
“We’ve had a nice, steady stream,” Henderson said about the morning turnout for the primary election.
The election on March 17 presented DeKalb County voters with little, if any, choices for local primary races. And primary races have historically seen low voter turnout.
Some voters chose between candidates for a contested Democratic primary race for one two-year DeKalb County Board seat.
A small percentage faced a tax levy increase referendum question for the Hinckley Fire Protection District. DeKalb city voters could choose between two Republican candidates to face off against incumbent Democrat state Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel in Ilinois House District 70.
Contested primaries pitted Democrats and Republicans in some bigger races, too: including for Illinois governor, who will replace longtime Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin’s U.S. Senate seat, who will face off against incumbent U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, D-Naperville, for her congressional seat in November.
And just because a race isn’t contested in the primary doesn’t mean it won’t be in November: Parties still have the option to put forward a candidate on the November ballot if there’s no one else running.
DeKalb County Clerk and Recorder Tasha Sims, whose office is tasked with administering the elections, said she estimates about 2,400 people had voted in person in the primary as of 2 p.m. on March 17.
She said she thinks wintry weather impacted the number of morning vot -
digits. The 2022 primary election saw about 8% of voters participate. Sims said he wasn’t certain the 2026 turnout would be better.
“My goal is, I really always hope we get into the double digits in the percentages because anything lower than 10% is just really hard,” Sims said. “Regardless, no matter the turnout, we just want to make sure that we get every voter that wants to participate to come and vote.”
The results of the election, like in 2022, will include mail-in and early voting ballots.
Henderson, an election judge for the past 10 years, said early voting, which was held at five sites across DeKalb County, “was pretty steady as well.”
About 2,500 mail-in and early voting ballots had been received by DeKalb County election officials as of the evening of March 17, Sims said.
The results of early voting ballots, as well as mail-in ballots, were expected to be among the first uploaded to the county’s election results portal that night.
Sims said encrypted jump drives –something she calls an “election stick” – containing data from those ballots are ready to be tabulated. However, those ballots likely won’t get tabulated until an election stick from another precinct arrives at the DeKalb County legislative center after polls close.
ers that election judges saw.
Recent blizzard-like conditions still impacted area roads the early morning of March 17, as blowing wind made for icy driving conditions.
“Slow start to begin with due to the roads, and just people getting out of the house from yesterday’s storm and the roads,” Sims said. “But since the sun’s out today, it seems to be – I would say slow but steady. I say people kind of come in waves.”
Primary voter turnout historically low, data shows
In the 2026 primary, voters can pull a Democrat or a Republican ballot that will decide who has the backing of the two parties in the 2026 midterm general election on Nov. 6.
Only one DeKalb County-specific race has a competitive primary. Two Democrats, Daniel Vantilburg and Devon Wilcox, are vying for the party’s nomination for a DeKalb County
Board District 5 seat.
Several races for party nominations to the U.S. House of Representatives, with districts that include parts of DeKalb County, also are competitive, according to the Shaw Local March 2026 primary election guide.
In June 2022 – the last general election primary held during a midterm –14,777 of 59,417 eligible DeKalb County voters participated, according to local election data. Of those voters, 8,930 pulled Republican ballots, and 5,642 pulled Democrat ballots.
Similar data for the 2026 primary election won’t be available until after the polls close. That data has been brought to the DeKalb County Legislative Center for tabulation, however. Clerk and recorder’s office documents show there are 67,483 registered voters in DeKalb County.
Sims said primary elections before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 typically saw voter turnout in the double
“We usually wait for the first couple of precincts to come in and then we do our first upload,” Sims said. “That will include those [early voting and voteby-mail ballots].”
Terrilynn Morris, an election judge for the past 20 years, also described the flow of voters at the Sycamore polling place as steady.
“For a primary, it’s pretty good,” Morris said.
She thinks weather, such as rain, snow, or cold temperatures, can affect voter turnout, but said she wasn’t sure whether the weather significantly impacted voters.
When asked what the community should understand about elections, Morris said, “Primaries are just as important as the generals.”
Henderson shared a similar sentiment.
“Every election counts, whether it’s primary or general,” Henderson said. “To vote is a privilege in the United States, and I think everybody should take advantage of it.”
Mark Busch
Election judge Terrilynn Morris checks in voters for the primary election March 17, at the DeKalb County Administration Building in Sycamore.
League of Women Voters promotes healthy discourse on politics
Next gathering is April 10 at Panera Bread in DeKalb
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
A local group is on a mission to promote positive, healthy discussions on politics.
It all came to a head for the League of Women Voters of DeKalb County as Election Day was approaching.
The primary election was March 17. Results the votes will set the races for the November general election.
On a recent Friday, a group met up in DeKalb for what they’re calling “Tea and Talk” at Panera Bread, 2476 Sycamore Road.
The event, which is open to both League of Women Voters members and the public, usually takes place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the second Friday of every month.
League vice president Barbara Andree said their end goal is simple.
“It’s just a way to welcome people in,” Andree said. “We don’t have to be a member. It’s to find out about the League and what we do.”
The gathering was promoted in advance by the League of Women Voters as a way to invite discussion about politics, brainstorm action, vent frustration, ask questions, laugh and listen.
An RSVP isn’t required to attend.
Andree acknowledged that talking about politics can be tough, but said she believes these community conversations are vital.
“I think healthy discussions about
Born: January 17, 1937
Died: March 12, 2026
Virginia B. Luedtke, 89, of DeKalb, passed away peacefully Thursday, March 12th at Lincolnshire Place of Sycamore surrounded by her family.
She was born in Des Moines, Iowa, to Wilson and Blanche (Kurz) Herron.
Virginia, called Ginny by all, attended East High School where she was involved in many clubs and activities from playing on the girls’ basketball team, to the Latin Club and working in the school library. Her father, by this time a widower, and her new step-mother encour-
politics are critically important at this time because there’s so much misunderstanding now,” Andree said.
“There’s, in some cases, animosity and division, which in the long run is not going to be helpful to the country. We can certainly agree to disagree, but unless you have discussions, you can’t really understand what the other person is talking about.”
Andree referenced League critics who like to resort to name-calling.
“The good thing about the League is that it’s nonpartisan,” Andree said.
“Now, a lot of people go, ‘You’re a
bunch of liberals.’ In a certain sense, we support democracy. And if you want to judge me ... that’s up to you. That’s your issue. That’s your choice to do that. And of course, that’s what decent conversations can solve.”
The League of Women Voters has been involved in the community in many different ways for years, promoting democracy, voting and understanding. Ahead of elections, League members often help facilitate voter outreach to encourage voter registration and civic participation. They’ve also hosted forums for voters to get to know candi-
dates before casting a ballot.
The Tea and Talk event saw eight people on hand on a recent Friday.
Andree said she was pleased by the turnout for the gathering.
“This was good,” she said. “This is a fairly typical number of people. We usually have one long table. People have different commitments, you know, every time, but I think it was a good group and we had a lot of good ideas.”
League of Women Voters’ next “Tea and Talk” gathering is expected to take place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on April 10 at Panera Bread in DeKalb.
aged her to attend Broadlawns Polk County School of Nursing which coordinated science classes at Drake University. While pursuing her training at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, she met an intern named Frank Luedtke. They married in 1957 after his internship ended. Ginny accompanied her husband to San Antonio, Texas and then to Baltimore, Maryland as her husband completed both his military service and residency. The couple then settled in DeKalb, Illinois where Ginny lived since 1963. She was a generous stay-at-home-mom and was both chauffeur and cheerleader for her kids and their activities. Ginny volunteered at Kishwaukee Hospital, the school and public libraries. She was a homeroom mom and ran
the school carnival at Jefferson Elementary for many years. She liked to relax with a good book, watch Jeopardy or play cards. For several years she was a member of seven different bridge clubs. After her kids were all grown and married, she liked nothing better than spending time with her eight grandchildren. Ginny and her husband enjoyed travelling and were quick to invite the kids and grandkids along for a “family adventure” or to visit them in sunny Florida during the winter.
Despite her progressive memory issues, Ginny and her husband were able to stay in their home of 55+ years until recently. Ginny moved to Lincolnshire in January, 2025 where she often had a smile, a wave and/or a kiss for
family and staff alike.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister JoAnn and an infant daughter, Nina. She is survived by her son Frank (Patricia), daughters Marie (Alan) Anderson and Lorna (Ron) Bemis, her grandchildren, Frank (Jaclyn) Luedtke, David Luedtke, Scott Luedtke, Janet Luedtke (Colum Wilson), Benjamin (Kayla) Anderson, Emma Anderson, Brooke (Patrick) Martelli, Brett Bemis and three great-grandchildren.
Services will be private.
Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or the charity of your choice. For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.
VIRGINIA “GINNY” LUEDTKE
Megann Horstead
A group of women share in conversation over drinks Friday, March 13, at the League of Women Voters’ monthly “Tea and Talk” gathering held at Panera Bread in DeKalb.
DeKalb remembers local historian Stephen Bigolin
Bigolin’s knowledge of DeKalb County history at center of legacy
By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com
The DeKalb community is remembering the life of Stephen Bigolin, a beloved local historian who died on March 12. He was 76.
Bigolin was lauded by many who knew him for his study of DeKalb history, and his commitment to sharing it through speaking, writing and conducting tours of both the city of DeKalb and the greater DeKalb County area.
J. F. Glidden Homestead and Historical Center Executive Director Jessi Haish LaRue said the DeKalb history community has lost one of its own.
“It’s a huge loss to the local history community,” Haish LaRue said. “He was active in our history, documenting it, writing for the Chronicle, writing books, doing tours at museums, doing bus tours, walking tours. He did everything. But we’re very fortunate that he did those things because he has this legacy that he left behind for us, as well.”
Born in Oak Park in 1949, Bigolin came to DeKalb from McHenry County to attend Northern Illinois University. Like many NIU grads, he stuck around.
“My life revolves around all things historical,” his obituary quoted him saying.
Bigolin volunteered his time over the years at the DeKalb County History Center, leading historic home tours at the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival and contributing to articles for publication in Corn Silk, the history center’s quarterly magazine.
He also wrote a weekly column, “A Journey through DeKalb County,” beginning in 2000, which was later produced with the Daily Chronicle into three books. He wrote another book, “Landmarks of the Barb City,” which told the story of annual bus tours at DeKalb Corn Fest in the summers.
Bigolin served from 1998 to 2000 on the Illinois Historic Sites Advisory Council, the group that enabled the historic Cook mansion to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bigolin’s volunteerism extends back to 1972, when he started as a docent at Ellwood House Museum.
His love for history only grew from there.
lot about history from knowing Bigolin. “I learned a lot about our local history when I first arrived here as a young grad student in American history,” Nicklas said. “I was interested in the sweeping changes across the country, but here was this guy who was providing a lot of detail and a lot of effort into the place that I lived in. I respected that and admired his energy and his dedication.”
In 1978, Bigolin cofounded the DeKalb Landmark Commission, a city panel that no longer exists.
More recently, Bigolin delivered historic talks each month to residents at Barb City Manor.
The manor’s executive director, Sarah Davis, said Bigolin was eager to share his love of history from the moment he moved into the retirement living community.
“When he moved in here, the first thing he said is, ‘Well, I want to do presentations about Barb City Manor,’” Davis said. “And I said, ‘OK.’ I think he moved in here and within a month, he was doing his first presentations.”
Davis said it was clear that history meant a lot to Bigolin.
“He just loved teaching people about history,” Davis said.
Nicklas said he appreciated Bigolin and his efforts.
In an email, Ellwood House Museum Assistant Director Audrey King reflected on what Bigoln meant to her.
“He was always generous with his time and knowledge; I can’t count how many times I’ve relied on his expertise or sent researchers his way with particularly difficult questions,” King wrote.
DeKalb County History Center executive director Michelle Donahoe described him as a “wealth of knowledge.”
He was equally willing to share what he knew about history, which she said she appreciated.
“He definitely left a legacy not just for current residents but for future researchers,” Donahoe said.
Health challenges slowed Bigolin down in recent years.
But the impact he had on the DeKalb history community remains.
Bigolin was among four individuals recognized by Boy Scout Troop 33 with the DeKalb County Tribute to Heroes Award in 2025.
Around that time, Bigolin expressed
appreciation for the honor.
Donahoe heaped praise on Bigolin for what he’d done for the history center.
“He gave walking tours every Sunday for many years,” Donahoe said. “People just really loved ... hearing his stories. You know, you passed by these buildings in our community so many times and like, ‘I know there’s got to be some good information.’ People were just so thankful that he was again willing to share that.”
Haish LaRue commended Bigolin on his efforts to share what he knew about local history.
“I think that we’re fortunate that he was always willing to share what he knew,” Haish LaRue said. “That deeply impacted someone, like me, who is, I would say, definitely newer in this career and in this area. He never withheld any information. He was always very eager to share. He wanted everyone to know the story.”
DeKalb City Manager Bill Nicklas, a historian himself, said he’s learned a
“From the earliest settlements in the county to today, he never stopped,” Nicklas said. “There’s always things to learn and people to talk to. And he kept that history alive by single-handedly doing some of his own writings.”
Davis said Bigolin will be missed.
“It’s a big loss,” Davis said. “Steve was huge. ... Steve knew everything in this town. He really did.”
Several said that if they had had the chance to share final remarks with him, his family and friends, they’d simply want to give thanks.
King gave her condolences.
“Steve was so passionate about DeKalb, and passed that along to everyone he met,” she wrote. “He will be truly missed.”
Haish LaRue mused over what she thinks Bigolin would have said about his proudest accomplishments.
“I think he would be proud that there are people still carrying on these stories,” she said. “I think he would have wanted to make sure that local history continues and we continue to grow the audience for it. We don’t want it to stop. It’s really important to know our roots.”
Shaw Local News Network file photo
The late Stephen Bigolin, a DeKalb area historian, speaks about the old Nehring building in downtown DeKalb, a former First National Bank at 164 E. Lincoln Highway, that became the new City Hall in May 2020.
