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DeKalb top cop hosts ‘Chats with the Chief’

Join DeKalb’s Police Chief for monthly discussions on crime and safety

By MEGANN HORSTEAD mhorstead@shawmedia.com

DeKalb’s top cop hopes to foster greater community engagement, inviting residents to share in conversation about crime and safety.

DeKalb Police Chief David Byrd welcomed residents March 24 to the first two of what is expected to be monthly “Chats with the Chief.”

Held at University Village Apartments and the DeKalb Police Department, “Chats with the Chief” offered an informal community conversation about crime and safety and is open to all.

Byrd said he looks forward to hosting the events regularly.

“I would sit in an open space, and people will pull up chairs and have an open conversation,” Byrd said. “My plan ... going forward every month is to continue to do that.”

Byrd previously started a similar event at The Junction Eating Place, inviting residents to coffee with the chief, a short time after he joined the police department in 2021.

Byrd said the idea behind the event was simple.

“The goal was for them to get to know me because I was from Chicago, and I wanted the people of DeKalb to have the opportunity to sit down and get to know me as a person and as a leader of the

PUZZLE ANSWERS puzzlesonpage13

lage Apartments’ community room, and one person was reported by the police chief at the 10 a.m. session in the police department’s community room.

Both events were on the heels of the police department’s annual report to the City Council. At that time, Byrd shared details highlighting the challenges and opportunities the police department faces.

One such item, Byrd said, the agency continues to grapple with is domestic violence-related cases.

In 2025, the city’s only homicide was a result of domestic violence.

In remarks to the City Council, Byrd said it’s unacceptable.

“It is a problem,” Byrd said. “We’re going to have to continue to work on it to make sure that we reduce it.”

department,” Byrd said. “And, then, of course, we talk about public safety, as well.”

Attendance at the coffee with a cop events started to dwindle during the COVID-19 pandemic. So much so, the police chief put them on pause and turned to TD Ryan’s then-WLBK-run morning show, hoping to reach the community.

That radio program saw changes in early 2025, the station’s owner cut the news radio program and its staff.

Since then, Byrd has taken up the idea to host “Chats with the Chief.”

“I felt like I needed to do something to get out to the community,” Byrd said.

The structure of the events remains largely the same, with the police department providing a space where residents can drop in and talk about public safety.

On March 24, three people were seen at the 6 p.m. session in the University Vil-

Byrd said he would like to introduce a standalone domestic violence unit.

He said having two officers solely dedicated to cases of domestic violence would help the city.

The police department currently has two officers who oversee the domestic violence unit, but they also have to handle other calls for service, he said.

“It’s the one crime that I know that we have a hard time being proactive and interdicting because most of these crimes occur in the sanctity of a home, which a law enforcement officer would have to have a legal cause to be within the sanctity of the home,” he said.

“Chats with the Chief” sessions are anticipated to be held monthly at various locations in the community.

“It was a really good conversation,” Byrd said, referring to events on March 24.

ON THE COVER

DeKalb County families can look forward to various festive egg hunts and community events as Easter approaches on April 5.

See story, page 6.

Shaw Local News Network file photo

CORRECTIONS

Accuracy is important to The MidWeek. Please call errors to our attention by phone at 815-526-4411 or email at readit@midweeknews.com.

Megann Horstead

DeKalb Police Chief David Byrd talks crime and safety March 24 at the second of two “Chats with the Chief” in the University Village Apartments community room.

New scholarship fund honors former DeKalb police officer

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

A new scholarship is honoring the memory of longtime DeKalb police officer Jim Rhoades, and will support DeKalb High School graduates pursuing careers in law enforcement.

The DeKalb County Community Foundation recently announced the creation of the Jim Rhoades Law Enforcement Scholarship Fund, meant to support local graduates and forward Jim’s legacy of service, dedication and community involvement, according to a news release.

“We are honored to partner with the Rhoades family in creating this permanently endowed fund that will benefit DeKalb Barb graduates for generations to come,” Foundation Executive Director Dan Templin said in a news release.

The scholarship fund was established by Jim’s wife, Sharon Rhoades, and daughters Kristina Walter and Melissa Beck to honor his lifelong service to the DeKalb community and the pride he held in both the DeKalb Police Department and DeKalb High School.

Rhoades served the city of DeKalb in law enforcement for 53 years, making him the longest-serving employee in the history of the DeKalb Police Department, according to the release.

A 1968 graduate of DeKalb High School,

Rhoades was active in football, basketball and baseball, earning most valuable player honors in football his senior year. One of Rhoades’ highlights was being a member of the basketball team that went ‘Down State in ’68!’, winning fourth place in the State Tournament. He later attended Northern Illinois University on a football scholarship and worked part-time as a dispatcher for NIU’s police department, where his interest in law enforcement first took shape.

Rhoades joined the DeKalb Police Department in 1971, serving as a patrol officer for 13 years before being promoted to detective. After retiring in 2002, he returned days later as a part-time community service officer and evidence room technician, continuing to serve until health challenges prevented him from working.

When asked about his career, Rhoades said, “I like solving crime.”

“When Jim was ill, our family talked about creating a scholarship in his name, and he was truly honored by the idea,” Sharon Rhoades said in the release. “Jim was excited to help students begin their own careers in law enforcement, just as he followed his dream many years ago.”

Donations to any fund at the Community Foundation, including the Jim Rhoades Law Enforcement Scholarship Fund, can be made online at dekalbccf.org/donate.

Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation DeKalb Police Department chief David Byrd (left) honors Jim Rhoades for 50 years of service.

DeKalb County Community Foundation creates fund to support Rooted for Good

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

The DeKalb County Community Foundation has established the Rooted for Good Endowment Fund, created by Jim and Kathy Lockard to provide longterm support for Rooted for Good, a local nonprofit working to reduce food insecurity across DeKalb County.

Jim Lockard said the decision to establish the fund is deeply personal. “Kathy and I grew up in families of modest means, and while the term did not exist at the time, food insecurity was something I experienced as a child,” Lockard said in a news release. “My family moved to a rural property largely so we could grow our own food. Looking back, that move was likely essential to our nutrition during my teen years.”

Before and after retirement, the

Lockards supported community gardens and food pantries throughout the county and watched with appreciation as the DeKalb County Community Gardens grew into Rooted for Good. They see the organization as one of the most broadbased efforts addressing food insecurity locally and hope the fund will help secure its future while encouraging others to support neighbors in need through a hand up rather than a handout.

Although the Lockards have since relocated to Kentucky, their connection to DeKalb County remains strong. DeKalb County was their primary home for 43 years, where both built their careers at Northern Illinois University.

“Our ability to give back now is a direct result of the opportunities we had in DeKalb County,” Lockard said in the

See ENDOWMENT FUND, page 8

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County History Center’s “Food: Gathering Around the Table” exhibit will close April 4

DeKalb County History Center’s Smithsonian exhibit closes April 4

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

The DeKalb County History Center will close its “Food: Gathering Around the Table” exhibit on April 4.

The exhibit explores how menus, recipes, etiquette and ceremonies were shaped by the country’s Native and immigrant experience, changing ingredient availability and food preparation technology innovation history.

The “Food: Gathering Around the Table” exhibit received an Award of Excellence from the Illinois Association of Museums.

The history center was one of five organizations selected to participate in a Smithsonian Museum project. The project examines culture, ethnicity, class, landscape and traditional food and flavors in DeKalb County and nationally. The exhibit framework was provided by the museum and established with historical images, art, artifacts, video clips and oral histories by the DeKalb County History Center and history partners.

“The DeKalb County History Center

was honored to be part of this project. As we regularly tell our visitors, all history is local history. This exhibit shares DeKalb County’s history as it compares to the national experience,” DeKalb County History Center’s Executive Director Michelle Donahoe said in a news release.

“For example, visitors enjoyed the hands-on cookbook collection; the memories from local festivals including Corn Fest, Pumpkin Fest, and Greek Fest; as well as reminiscing about local restaurants that provided unique cultural food experiences.”

“We also were thrilled to work with over 15 community partners to share more food related stories throughout the county,” Donahoe said in the release.

The history’s center next “We the People of DeKalb County” exhibit is set to open May 30. The exhibit will be part of the center’s Campus Expansion Grand Opening Celebration and the United States of America’s 250th anniversary.

For information, call 815-895-5762 or visit dekalbcountyhistory.org.

Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center

The DeKalb

Easter egg hunts, events in DeKalb County

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

DeKalb County families can look forward to various festive egg hunts and community events as Easter approaches on April 5.

Upcoming events and egg hunts include:

DeKalb

• The DeKalb Park District will hold a Teen Glow-in-the-Dark Egg Hunt from 8 to 9 p.m. April 2 in the Lions Park shelter, 700 W. Taylor St. Youth ages 11 to 18 can search for glow-in-the-dark eggs filled with prizes, candy and surprises. Prizes also will be awarded to the top three participants who collect the most eggs. Glow bracelets and necklaces will be provided at check-in. The egg hunt also features music and games. The egg hunt costs $5 for residents and $6 for nonresidents. Registration is required. For information or to register, visit dekalbparkdistrict.com/calendar/ events/glow-in-the-dark-teen-egg-hunt.

• Westminster Presbyterian Church’s, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, annual Easter Egg Hunt begins at 2 p.m. April 4. Children can search for Easter eggs. The children must be accompanied by an adult. For information, visit dekalbcountycvb.com/dccvbevent/easter-egg-hunt-wpc-2026.

• The Lincoln Inn at Faranda’s, 302 Grove St., Easter brunch is scheduled to run from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 5. The menu includes sautéed pasta, made-to-order omelets, prime rib, glazed ham, lobster mac and cheese, salad, soup, charcuterie boards, juice, coffee, soda and tea. The meal costs $44.99 for adults, $32.99 for children ages 4 to 12 and is free for children ages 3 and younger. Reservations are required; call 815-756-2345. For information, visit farandas.com.

Sycamore

• The Sycamore Park District’s Breakfast with the Easter Bunny event runs from 7:30 to 9:15 a.m. April 4 at the Sycamore Park District Community Center, 480 Airport Road. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee and juice. Children will receive a takehome craft while supplies last. Registration is required. The event costs $12. To register, visit ilsycamoreweb.myvscloud.com. For information, visit sycparks.org/calendar/.

• Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St.,

will host a free Easter egg hunt at 11 a.m. April 4. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own Easter baskets. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held indoors. Open play time and cocktails also will be available after the egg hunt. Registration is required. For information or to register, visit blumengardens.com/events/easter-egg-hunt.

Sandwich

• The Sandwich Spring Egg Hunt is scheduled from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. April 4 at Knights Park, 1001 N. Latham St. Participants will be separated into age

groups for the egg hunt. Attendees also can take photos with the Easter Bunny. In the event of lightning, the event will be canceled. Children must be accompanied by an adult and limited to eight eggs. For information, visit sandwichparkdistrict.org.

Cortland

• The Cortland Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Cortland Lions Club, will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. April 3 at Cortland Community Park, 70 S. Llanos St. The event will include crafts, games, food, photos with the Easter Bunny and

a sensory-friendly egg hunt. The egg hunts begin at 6:15 p.m. and will be divided into age groups. For information, visit dekalbcountycvb.com/dccvbevent/cortland-easter-egg-hunt-2026.

Shabbona

• The third annual Shabbona Easter Egg Hunt begins at 10 a.m. April 4 at Prairie Crossing, 409 W. Comanche Ave. Children can meet the Easter Bunny and enter for a chance to win an Easter basket. For information, visit dekalbcountycvb.com/dccvbevent/2026-easter-egg-hunt.

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Ivan Pabron, 3, of DeKalb picks up eggs during during the 2024 DeKalb Park District children’s egg hunt at Hopkins Park in DeKalb.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Procrastinator’s club to meet April 6 in DeKalb

The DeKalb Public Library will host a procrastinator’s club for adults who procrastinate to receive focused work time.

The free club will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. April 6 in the library’s Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, 309 Oak St.

Participants can bring paperwork, homework, headphones and laptops. Light refreshments will be served. No registration is required.

For information, email amyf@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 6108.

DeKalb library to offer breast health program April 7

The DeKalb Public Library will offer an informational session for adults to learn about the importance of breast health. The free program will begin at 6 p.m. April 7 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.

Attendees can learn about mammograms, how to interpret the findings and navigating the referral process. The

program will be led by Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital surgeon Nitzet Velez, M.D. No registration is required.

For information, email leahh@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2112.

Sustainability swap set for April 2 in DeKalb

Adults can trade in lightly used clothing and swap houseplants during a monthly sustainability swap at the DeKalb Public Library.

The free swap will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 2 in the library’s lower-level Yusunas Meeting Room, 309 Oak St.

Attendees can bring freshly washed adult-sized clothing. The clothes can be dropped off at the library’s reference desk. Houseplants of all kinds will be accepted. Participants should bring pots they are willing to part with. Plants do not need to be dropped off in advance. No registration is required.

For information, email amyf@dkpl.org or call 815-756-9568, ext. 2150.

– Shaw Local News Network

William Miller family to be discussed at Brown Bag lecture

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

The April Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore Series will feature a program about the William Miller family.

The free program will begin at noon April 2 at the Ellwood House Museum, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb.

Retired DeKalb County Forest Preservation District natural resources manager Al Roloff will discuss the family’s history, the construction of the family’s cabin and the cabin’s experiences for almost two centuries. Attendees also can view the cabin’s artifacts and tools.

Roloff was a DeKalb County Forest Preservation District volunteer in the 1990s and worked as the district’s first natural resources manager. He retired from the forest preservation district in 2018.

• ENDOWMENT FUND

Continued from page 4

release. “We are grateful for what this community gave us and are happy to support the people and organizations that continue to make a difference here.”

Foundation Executive Director Dan Templin said the new fund reflects the kind of forward-thinking generosity that strengthens communities for generations.

“This new fund is a win-win-win example of generosity invested in DeKalb County,” Templin said in the release. “The Lockards’ gift reflects a deeply held commitment to addressing food insecurity. They were able to give in a tax-advantageous way through a Qualified Charitable Distribution, and Rooted for Good benefits from establishing its first permanent Endowment Fund at the Foundation.”

Heather Edwards, Rooted for Good executive director, said the fund provides lasting stability for the organization.

“We are truly grateful to the Lockard family for creating this Endowment

“The Miller/Ellwood Cabin: A DeKalb County Historical Treasure” program is part of Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore, a free lecture series offered as a collaboration between the DeKalb County History Museum and Ellwood House Museum.

Brown Bag Lunch and Local Lore is funded in part by the Mary E. Stevens Concert and Lecture Fund and an Illinois Arts Council grant.

For information, visit ellwoodhouse. org/lectures.

Fund,” Edwards said in the release. “Their generosity strengthens our ability to respond to community needs and continue building a more food-secure DeKalb County.”

Donations to any fund at the Community Foundation, including the Rooted for Good Endowment Fund, may be made online at dekalbccf.org or by mail to the DeKalb County Community Foundation, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178.

To learn more about creating your own named fund or to discuss your charitable interests, contact Foundation Executive Director Dan Templin at 815748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.

Al Roloff

Photo provided by Ellwood House Museum

The historic Miller/Ellwood Cabin in DeKalb County.

Jim and Kathy Lockard

Dennis Leifheit

LOOKING BACK

1926 – 100 YEARS AGO

Police department officials have been experiencing considerable difficulty with a gang of youngsters for some time, and a week or more ago, some six or more were ordered to be at home each night by eight o’clock. It is understood that if the police order is not complied with, the youngsters will be taken before the county court for commitment to St. Charles.

Farmers in the vicinity of Mayfield township worked faithfully yesterday in an effort to keep the roads open that the funeral of Mrs. James Latimer Sr. might be held as previously announced. Many of the farmers in the vicinity of the Latimer farm drove teams over the roads early yesterday and then family Fords and other autos were pressed into service, being driven over the road continually until after the service. Through this work on the part of the neighbors, the services for the wellknown resident of that section were held yesterday afternoon at the Congregational church in DeKalb.

In less than a week after the store was destroyed by fire, the firm of Oleson, Walrod & Hill of Sycamore, yesterday resumed business operations, following the visit here of the insurance adjusters. The insurance adjusters spent much of the day checking over the stock with the members of the firm and assigning the damaged merchandise into several lots. The firm is now disposing of much of the stuff that was damaged in the store formerly operated by Frank Lee at most any price that the room may be used for the stock of groceries that has been ordered and is expected within a few days.

According to present plans, the heating plant at the state teacher’s college will be in operation again within the next two or three days. At this time the buildings are being heated by hot air, on account of repairs having been made on the steam plant. The students at the college, especially those in buildings other than the main school, are hoping that the work will be completed by Monday so that steam may again be used for heating purposes.

1951 – 75 YEARS AGO

Demonstration of three types of gas and fresh air masks were featured during

another dog to join Rex Von Victor on the force. Lt. Roger Scott said the department is seeking a male German Shepherd, preferably between 14 and 24 months old. Anyone wishing to donate a dog can contact Lt. Scott.

The teamsters’ strike appears to have little immediate effect on business and industry in DeKalb County. Supermarkets expect normal deliveries and manufacturers have enough materials to withstand a short strike.

Wednesday night’s near-freezing temperatures and gusting winds combined for an early spring “freak of nature” in DeKalb. A meteorologist was called in this morning to explain the bizarre waist-deep snow drifts.

2001 – 25 YEARS AGO

the regular monthly meeting of the DeKalb County Firemen’s Association in Malta this week. Sixty members attended the session. Following the demonstration work, a representative of the Rockwood Sprinkler Company, Chicago, showed movies on oil fires, sprinkler nozzles and use of fog in firefighting.

Classroom arrangement and general plans for Sycamore’s two new grade school buildings have been approved and are in the process of being drawn up by consulting architects. Armed with a completed drawing of these plans, school board officials hope to be able to advertise for bids on at least one of the new buildings.

A little activity by the state police on Sycamore Road has a good effort for several days on the wild driving habits which have become more prevalent lately, but they need some help from local sources. Wonder if a couple of unexpected visits by the sheriff and his deputies wouldn’t help matters.

For the children’s story hour tomorrow morning at 10 o’clock at the Haish Memorial Library, the storyteller will be Lois Fre-

und of Chicago. Children are looking forward to Saturday to hearing new stories and old during these story hours, and tomorrow morning also promises to be a treat for them.

The new dial telephones were officially in operation Wednesday night in Sandwich when Mayor George Halistrom threw the switch that put the system in service. Mr. Halistrom made the first long-distance call to a friend in Looran, Kansas.

Removing stumps of large trees to make way for streets in the Tilton Park subdivision progresses rapidly with modern machinery to assist. Trees are cut with power saws, then the trunks are pushed to one side by a bulldozer. Next the operator of the huge machine digs the earth from around the stump. With the earth removed and many smaller roots broken during the operation, the huge machine rambles up and starts pushing on the tree stump itself.

1976 – 50 YEARS AGO

DeKalb County Sheriff’s Police are seeking to double their canine corps. Sheriff’s police initiated the canine patrol program in June 1974, and are seeking

Applications are now being accepted for the 2001-02 class of Teen Age Group Service at Kishwaukee Community Hospital. TAGS must be at least 13 years old, entering the 8th grade, and interested in serving KCH.

Around 40 people were on hand at Cortland Elementary School on Thursday night to hear the mayoral and board of trustees candidates address the issues in this year’s election campaign.

Taking Animals Into Loving Shelter Humane Society (TAILS) of DeKalb County will hold its annual membership meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Castle Bank. Anyone interested in helping to build a new animal shelter for the homeless animals of DeKalb County are encouraged to attend.

About 70 unionized police officers and their supporters picketed City Hall on Monday to protest a breakdown in negotiations with DeKalb city officials on a new labor contract.

DeKalb City Council most likely will give preliminary approval tonight to the final design of a shopping center planned for the old county nursing home property at Sycamore and Barber Greene roads. The developer and city officials have so far refused to disclose the stores the mall will include. – Compiled by Sue Breese

Photo provided by the DeKalb County History Center Archives

The Dr. Edward Mayo house is seen at the northwest corner of First Street and Lincoln Highway in DeKalb, circa 1900.

DCCF awards $110K education grant

By SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

A partnership between local funders and educators will strengthen coordination of early childhood initiatives serving families across DeKalb County.

The DeKalb County Community Foundation has awarded a $110,000 grant over three years to the DeKalb County Regional Office of Education to support several countywide programs focused on early learning and school readiness.

“This investment reflects a shared commitment to helping young children thrive,” DeKalb County Community Foundation grants and community initiatives director Jolene Willis said in a news release. “We are deeply grateful to the donors who made this work possible and to the Regional Office of Education for continuing and strengthening these efforts.”

The grant supports ongoing coordination of the DeKalb County Collaborative for Young Children and Basics DeKalb County through 2027. For more than a decade, the Community Foundation has provided funding and supported early care and education efforts in DeKalb County in partnership with the Regional Office of Education, educators, nonprofits and other public partners. Through these initiatives, the shared work has focused on giving children a strong start by strengthening coordination, supporting families and promoting early learning and school readiness across the county.

“Systems change is possible when a community moves in one direction,” DeKalb County Regional Office of Education early learning programs coordinator Samantha McDavid said in the release. “This generous support from the Community Foundation validates the collective impact work of the DeKalb County Collaborative for Young Children. This funding strengthens the efforts of the Regional Office of Education and our dedicated partners to bridge gaps in early childhood services, partner with families, and support our youngest learners so they are prepared for school and life.”

Beginning in 2026, the Regional Office of Education took the lead in coordinating the Kindergarten Readiness Toolkit Program, helping ensure it continues to reach families across DeKalb County. Since the program began in 2020, more than 5,000 toolkits have been distributed to children and families across the

county. By transitioning the program to the Regional Office of Education, the work will continue under a trusted local organization with strong connections to schools, educators and families. The toolkits provide age-appropriate books and learning materials that help children build key skills as they prepare to enter school. The Regional Office of Education works closely with schools and manages ongoing fundraising and program costs as part of the transition.

“This kind of partnership is exactly what our community needs to give children a strong start,” DeKalb County Community Foundation donor and child advocate Micki Chulick also said in the release. “When schools, community leaders, and donors work together, we can open more doors for young learners. We know that high-quality early care and education is essential for success in school and in life. Tony and I are proud to support the Foundation’s long-term commitment to this work through our CommunityWorks Fund, which was created to help sustain these important efforts for years to come.”

Funding for this work is made possible through the generosity of Community Foundation donors, with the majority of grant dollars coming from the endowed CommunityWorks Funds. Together, this support reflects a shared commitment to early learning and strong families. It also helps ensure these programs remain accessible and sustainable for children across DeKalb County. Anyone interested in helping grow these important Funds can contact Foundation Executive Director Dan Templin at dan@dekalbccf.org

For more information about the DeKalb County Community Foundation

and its work to support local communities, visit dekalbccf.org.

About the DeKalb County Community Foundation

The DeKalb County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. Through grantmaking, endowment building and community leadership, the Foundation

works to improve the quality of life for all who live and work in DeKalb County.

About the DeKalb County Regional Office of Education

The DeKalb County Regional Office of Education supports students, families and educators by strengthening learning opportunities across DeKalb County. The Regional Office of Education works

9am - 5pm

Photo provided by the DeKalb County Community Foundation

The DeKalb County Collaborative for Young Children’s Baby Fest connects families with home visiting programs, basics insights texting and early learning opportunities

Economist: World events have blurred the outlook

By CAMDEN LAZENBY clazenby@shawmedia.com

A Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago senior economist and economic adviser told a room full of DeKalb County business professionals that recent world events are impacting economic forecasts.

Senior economist, economic advisor and director of the Economic Mobility Project at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Kristen Broady, said March 25 that recent and current events in Iran, Venezuela and Cuba have made economic outlooks more difficult to project.

Many economic projections that Broady shared during the 2026 DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation’s annual Economic Outlook Luncheon at Faranda’s Banquets, 302 Grove St., DeKalb, touched on the United States’ future gross domestic product, 10-year treasury note yields and the labor market. Many of those projections, however, were made before the U.S. government conducted military operations in Venezuela, ousting leader

Kristen Broady, senior economist, economic adviser and director of the Economic Mobility Project at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, speaks March 25 during the DeKalb County Economic Development Corp.’s annual economic outlook luncheon at Faranda’s Banquets in DeKalb.

Nicolas Maduro, and before the U.S., alongside Israel, launched a war with Iran on Feb. 28.

“I think that we have to be careful relying on any of these things,” Broady

Celebrating Achievement and Inclusion: Opportunity House Athletics Awards Night

• ECONOMIC PROJECTIONS

Continued from page 11

She also said “it’s not a secret” inflation in the U.S. remains above the 2% mark the Federal Reserve aims for.

Tariffs cost U.S. families hundreds of dollars, if not more than $1,000, over the past year, according to studies Broady presented to business leaders. She said the long-term effects of those tariffs have not yet been determined, partly because the tariff rates continue to change.

“Economists generally say on one hand this positive thing is happening, but on the other hand, this negative thing might happen,” Broady said. “That’s not where I am today. I have a different analogy. Normally, things are concrete. I’d be telling you how I feel vaguely sometimes, but today I would use the example of concrete – that you pour concrete, and I would just say that it’s not dry yet.”

After the event, Melissa Amedeo, executive director of the DCEDC, was asked what she took from Broady’s presentation.

“I think there were a lot of good insights about. It’s hard to make a prediction with all of the change that’s happening in the world today,” Amedeo said.

Amedeo also said she thinks DeKalb County’s most famous industry has

helped insulate the county’s economy from world events.

“We’re probably a little less volatile in my mind because we are so agriculturally oriented that we don’t see the huge swings of where we’re seeing growth and job losses in some of the other areas that she showed on the one map,” Amedeo said.

Among the local leaders attending Broady’s presentation was newly appointed DeKalb County Administrator Ruth Kedzior.

“As a new [DeKalb] County resident, I was impressed by the number of business and community leaders who understand the importance of a healthy economy, and are committed to supporting and attracting development and job growth,” Kedzior wrote in an email responding to a request for comment.

She also wrote she was encouraged by what she called Broady’s “tone of optimism” that DeKalb County remains “a welcoming place to live, invest in and thrive.”

“I can’t imagine that somehow things are going to magically settle after what –after Venezuela is over, like how does that end? After the lights come back on in Cuba, I don’t know how that ends,” Broady said. “How long will the war in Iran last? I have no idea.”

When Should You Replace Your HVAC System?

While the typical lifespan of an HVAC system is approximately 15 to 20 years, there are several variables that can affect how long it lasts and how well it performs. It starts with proper installation—this includes properly sizing replacement equipment on the front end, making sure gas pressures are set correctly and ensuring the refrigerant charge is correct. There should also be adequate airflow across the heat exchanger.

Yearly preventive maintenance, including regularly cleaning the outdoor condenser coil, can prolong the life of the equipment, and it is very important to change filters at regular appropriate intervals based on the size of the unit, the size of the home, and whether you have pets or residents with allergies or other respiratory issues.

If you need a repair toward the end of the equipment’s lifespan, get an accurate repair cost to help you decide if it’s more financially sound to replace the unit. Replacement typically resets the warranty for 10 years on parts if registered

with most manufacturers. Labor warranties are available, but add front-end cost to the installation.

Modern technology has changed in northern Illinois—contractors are now promoting “Dual Fuel Systems” that consist of a heat pump and a high efficiency furnace. This allows the cold climate heat pump to heat your home during milder temperatures and turns on the furnace during colder temperatures, saving on energy costs.

Early spring and fall are the best times for deals. It’s usually a slower time for HVAC contractors, and they run specials to keep their crews busy. During mid-summer and winter, contractors are swamped, potentially leading to increased installation costs and delays due to backlog.

If you’re considering replacing your HVAC system, now is an excellent time. Call KM Heating and Cooling at (815) 691-1991 and ask for Dave Kissel to learn about available utility rebates and other Spring Promotions.

KM Heating and Cooling 339 Wurlitzer Dr. DeKalb, IL 60115

Ph: 815-691-1991

KMHeatingandCooling.com

Mark Busch