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HOMEWOOD – State Senator Napoleon Harris III helped secure a $600,000 state grant through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program for Blackstone Park in Dolton.
“Securing $600,000 for Blackstone Park is about making sure state dollars come back to Dolton and are put to work in our community,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “This investment will give families a safe, well-maintained place for children and their families.”
OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $675 million for park projects throughout Illinois.
The OSLAD grant will be used to continue improvements
at Blackstone Park, located at 146th & Blackstone Ave., by expanding amenities to include challenge courses, a gaga ball pit, activity nodes, a woodland restoration area, educational signage, a new parking lot and a new ballfield.
“We appreciate our legislators, Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Village of Dolton community for their support towards this project in this deserving neighborhood,” said Cleo D. Jones, Dolton Park District board president. “I look forward to the enhanced beauty of this area and seeing the excitement of the residents and youth enjoying their new park.”
Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for more information on the OSLAD grants: https://dnr.illinois.gov/grants/openspacelandsaquisitiond evelopment-grant.html

(Family Features) Playing video games can be a fun, social experience. However, online gaming also poses real risks, especially for kids. As a parent, you don’t necessarily need to be a gamer yourself to help keep your children safe when the controller is in their hands.
Consider taking proactive steps like these to create a healthy online gaming environment for kids of all ages.
Check System Privacy Settings
As a first line of defense – before your child even starts gaming – spend some time in the device or console privacy settings. Here you can turn off sharing, disable location tracking, limit microphone and camera access and restrict how other users can interact with your child’s profile. Similarly, many games and platforms include built-in privacy settings that can be tailored to your child’s age and online experience. These settings may allow you to limit who can view your child’s profile or send a friend request, message or voice chat. Research Games
Because not all games are created equal, look up game ratings through a service such as ESRB before buying or downloading to understand the maturity level of the game and determine if it’s appropriate for your child. To take it a step further, read reviews from other parents or watch gameplay videos to see if you deem not only the content but also the social interaction acceptable.
Use Facial Age Estimation
Online platforms are increasingly looking for ways to keep users safe, and that includes added levels of verification. As part of a multilayered approach to safety, Roblox is the first online gaming platform to require age checks for users of
all ages to access chat features, enabling age-appropriate communication and limiting conversations between adults and minors. These secure age checks are designed to be fast, easy and secure using Facial Age Estimation technology directly within the app.
“Our commitment to safety is rooted in delivering the highest level of protection for our users,” said Matt Kaufman, chief safety officer at Roblox. “By building proactive, agebased barriers, we can empower users to create and connect in ways that are both safe and appropriate.”
Once age-checked, users are assigned to one of six age groups: under 9, 9-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-20 or 21 and older, ensuring conversations are safe and age appropriate. Age checks are optional; however, features like chat will not be accessible unless an age check is completed. Chat is also turned off by default for children under age 9, unless a parent provides consent after an age check.
Keep Personal Information Private
It’s seldom a bad idea to be extra cautious when interacting with strangers online, even if they seem friendly enough while playing the game. Teach children what information not to share, including their full name, address, birthday, school name, phone number, email address, passwords or any photos that may contain any personal information (like a house number or school logo) in the background. Also encourage a screen name and generic avatar for added privacy.
Turn on Parental Controls
Designed to allow parents a supervisory role in their child’s online gaming experience, parental controls on many platforms include the ability to set schedules and limit playtime, restrict access to certain content or social features, require a password for purchases or set a spending limit.
Avoid Clicking Unfamiliar Links
Player profiles and in-game chats may include links to external sites, including those promising rewards or cheat codes. Because they can be used to gain access to personal information, remind your children to ask an adult before clicking any unfamiliar links while gaming so they can be verified as trustworthy.
Employ Privacy and Security Tools
While system or console-specific settings allow parents to set content restrictions, approve downloads, manage friends lists and more, additional layers of security are sometimes necessary. Extra safeguards such as antivirus and internet security software, DNS (domain name system) filtering and two-factor authentication can also be enabled to help keep kids safe online.
For more tools to help parents make informed decisions and support their children’s gaming experience, visit corp. roblox.com/safety.











Question:
CATHY & JIM HIGGINS
We are getting our home ready for sale. Any thoughts on how we get started with getting out home in good condition?
Answer:
My wife wants to sell, she said, “let’s get the house ready.” Interest rates are good and the market’s holding steady. We’ll start cleaning the house and painting the walls. Clean the basement and vacuum the halls.
Wash the windows, fix the fence.
My wife is stressed and it’s getting tense. The kids are helping by cleaning their room. It’s been over a week, I hope they’re done soon!
My kids are fighting; my wife is yelling. The neighbors at the door, wondering why we are selling. I rushed to the fridge to get me a beer. Never too late for some Holiday cheer.
My wife has a list of things to be done. I looked at the list, and none of them looked fun.
Shampoo the carpet, polish the floors.
By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com
SPRINGFIELD — The board that governs higher education in Illinois voted Wednesday to request $2.7 billion in general revenue funding next year, an increase of $121.6 million, or 4.6%, over the amount lawmakers approved for the current fiscal year.
But that request came at the same time Gov. JB Pritzker announced he was reducing this year’s higher education budget by $30.5 million. That included an announcement that he would not release $29.5 million in higher education funding that lawmakers gave him the power to hold in reserve last May when they approved the current-year budget.
The move is part of an overall $481.6 million reduction in state agency spending authority Pritzker ordered to address what he called “ongoing economic uncertainty driven by the Trump administration.”
“We expect that most agencies will not see their funding requests fulfilled – and continued fiscal management in Fiscal Year 2026 will help ensure the ability of the State Agencies to face the challenges expected over the next few years,” the governor’s budget director, Alexis Sturm, said in a letter announcing the reductions.
Both the budget request and Pritzker’s announcement came as disappointing news to union officials who have been urging the IBHE to pressure the administration into releasing the funds that have been held back this year.
“The Illinois Board of Higher Education has failed students and working families once again,” University Professionals of Illinois president John Miller said in a statement. “At a time when Illinois students and families are struggling desperately to afford a university education, the Board’s FY 27 budget recommendation today guarantees even higher tuition and fees and more student debt.”
But IBHE officials defended the request, saying it calls for investments to make higher education affordable for students in Illinois while recognizing the fiscal constraints facing the state.
“The Board has approved a recommended budget for fiscal year 2027 that takes into account the state’s fiscal projections, the fiscal realities of our institutions and our students and families along with the work needed to close equity gaps,” IBHE chairman Pranav Kothari said in a statement. “Even in tight budget years, we must continue to prioritize higher education in Illinois.”
Budget request highlights
Overall, IBHE’s budget request includes a $39.6 million, or 3%, general funds increase in operating funds for state universities and a $10.1 million increase, or 2.4%, for community colleges.
The proposed budget calls for a $50 million increase in the Monetary Award Program, or MAP grants, the state’s primary need-based student financial aid program. That would bring total MAP funding next year to $771.6 million.
It also calls for a $5 million increase in AIM HIGH grant funding, which would bring that program’s total funding to
Fix the crack in the ceiling and paint all the doors.
Our homes been for sale for over a week. You’d think some buyers would take a peek. But no buyers are coming, the market seems slow. Even though the price, seems really low.
I know the buyers will soon come around, Because my wife buried St Joseph, upside down in the ground.
Our home finally sold, it’s Pending they say. Our closing is set for after New Years Day
This Home has provided so much love & laughter. Now it’s time to move on and start a new chapter. Thinking of Selling? Call Cathy, because she’s very nice. And she’ll sell your home for the best possible price!
E-mail us your Real estate questions at: Cathyah@aol. com. Thinking of selling? Call Cathy & Jim Higgins: Ind: 219-577-5905 Ill: 708-828-3304. Licensed Broker/ Realtors in Indiana & Illinois. McColly Real Estate. www. Cathyhiggins.com. Personal Real estate Journal: www. Higginshousechat.blogspot.com.
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$55 million. AIM HIGH is a scholarship program that is both need- and merit-based.
According to IBHE, during the 2024-25 academic year, nearly 80% of Illinois students who qualified for Pell grants — the federal government’s primary need-based financial aid program — were able to attend public universities tuition- and fee-free as a result of recent funding increases to the MAP and AIM HIGH grant programs.
“Increased investments to the MAP and AIM HIGH grant programs throughout the last several fiscal years have made our public institutions more affordable for students, and this budget recommends increased investment in both programs.” IBHE Executive Director Ginger Ostro said in a statement.
Equity issues
Within the proposed budget for state universities, IBHE is requesting a $38.3 million increase in general operating funds, or about 3% over this year’s approved funding.
But the board is also recommending, as it has the last few years, that money be distributed under a formula that would prioritize institutions that serve more low- and moderateincome students who qualify for federal Pell grants.
How Illinois distributes its funding among the state’s 12 public universities has been a subject of strenuous debate in recent years.
Last year, the Illinois Commission on Equitable Public University Funding proposed legislation to overhaul the state’s higher education funding system and replace it with a formula similar to the Evidence-Based Funding formula used for K-12 education.
That new formula would establish adequacy targets for each institution and give priority in new funding to those schools that are furthest away from their adequacy target.
Lawmakers held hearings on that proposal during the 2025 session. And while IBHE took no official position on it, the bill stalled in a Senate committee, mainly due to opposition from the state’s largest institution, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Robin Steans, executive director of the education advocacy group Advance Illinois and a vocal advocate of the funding overhaul, said in an interview that IBHE’s proposal to distribute new money according to a formula based on student demographics would be a significant step in the right direction.
Steans said IBHE has not taken an official position on the Adequate and Equitable Funding proposal.
But I think they are speaking with their feet that they believe that we need to be on a path, and that that path needs to include equity,” she said. IBHE’s budget proposal will be forwarded to Pritzker and the General Assembly for consideration as they put together a state budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Pritzker is scheduled to deliver his overall budget plan to lawmakers on Wednesday, Feb. 18. Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
Some content courtesy of Family Features and Capital News Illinois.
Friday 4:00 pm for the following week’s issue.
The Shopper reserves the right to edit any content supplied for publication as it sees fit, including but not limited to clarity, grammatical and factual accuracy, and to accommodate available space. All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to Fair Housing Laws which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, sexual orientation, marital status, military status, age, ancestry, parental status, source of income, military discharge status or housing status,” no matter how large or small the property. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.
To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.
CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH, COGIC
1151 E. 170th St., South Holland
708-331-8389
FAX 708.331.8374
Admin@ChristCommunityCOGIC.org ChristCommunityCOGIC.org
PASTOR DR. CARL E. KING, SR. WORSHIP SERVICES
JESUS LIGHTHOUSE OF LOVE INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES 19058 Burnham Ave, Lansing 312-206-1833 facebook.com/JLOLMinistries
PASTOR EL CID ZOLLICOFFER PASTOR SHONNI ZOLLICOFFER
RECONCILIATION CHURCH
833 East 168th St., South Holland
708-331-7755
www.reconciliationchurch.org
PASTOR GLEN MCCARTHY
COVENANT UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 1130 East 154th St., South Holland
708-333-5955
www.covucc.org
PASTOR REV. DR. PATRICK L. DAYMOND
FIRST CHURCH (PCA)
3134 Ridge Rd, Lansing
708-474-9610
www.firstchurchpca.org
FIRST ORTHODOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SOUTH HOLLAND 16248 South Park Ave., South Holland
708-333-8211
www.firstchurchsh.org
PASTOR REV. DANIEL SVENDSEN WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday 9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m.
GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, LCMS
8303 Sheffield Avenue Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 865-1137 gracedyer.org
PASTOR REV. DALE HETHERINGTON
WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m.
REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH
651 East 166th St., South Holland
708-331-4100
redeemer-lutheran@sbcglobal.net
WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:45 a.m.
Channel 6 Tues. 10:00 a.m.
ST. PAUL’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL
8601 Harrison Avenue, Munster, In. 46321 219-838-6720 stplmunster.com
Pastors: Peter Speckhard, Adrian Krebs
WORSHIP SERVICES: Monday: ..........................................6:30 p.m. Sunday: .....................8:00 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.
Bible Study: Sundays at ........9:15am (Sunday school at this time too) 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month (Ladies’ Bible Study) Wednesdays at 10am Thursdays at 10am (Nursery available for Sunday morning services)
ESPIRITU DE DIOS
16400 S. State St., South Holland
708-439-1220 sogfchurch.com
PASTORES Jose & Paula Lopez
SERVICIOS: Grupo de Oracion de Hombres Jueves ........................................... 7:30 p.m. Sabado Alabanza y Predicacion.....6:00 p.m.
UNITY OF NORTHWEST INDIANA
Plum Creek Center
2138 Moeller Street Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 931-5284 www.unitynwi.org ALL WELCOME
MINISTER: REV. GERALDINE COLVIN SUNDAY SERVICE.......................10:00 AM

by Janice R Newman
Procrastination killed the cat! A catchy title that makes you think. But procrastination can kill the cat, your dreams, your opportunities, and everything else that you waited to feed. I’m positive that if you wait to feed a cat for 30 days or a year, you will most likely kill the cat. It’s the same when we don’t work on (feed) our goals, dreams, and opportunities by procrastinating. They tend to fade away or die. Procrastination delays and kills our goals, and even the day-to-day things-to-do list. Why Not do those tasks today?
Procrastination is a common behavior that affects everyone by delaying or postponing a task for another reason, typically for one that’s more pleasurable or doing nothing or avoiding it. Procrastination can hold you back and lead to missed deadlines, incomplete work, and decreased productivity.
The four biggest reasons why we procrastinate include fear of failure or making a mistake, lack of motivation, time management, and distractions. People tend to put off things for tomorrow because of fear of failure or making a mistake. We hope that with more time, we can prepare more or have less anxiety. They lack the motivation to get started so they don’t start. People with poor time management skills tend to prioritize by spending time on less important easier tasks. Distractions are all around us vying for our attention as we are constantly drawn away from the important task at hand.
Why do something today, when can you do it tomorrow?
Ecclesiastes 11:4 Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap. (NIV). God instructs us not to be idle but to sow so we shall reap. Procrastination keeps putting off the inevitable, which only makes it worse. We only have limited time so use your time wisely. Scripture reminds us of the importance of being diligent and doing work with a sense of purpose and urgency.
Proverbs 10:4 “Lazy hands made for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” (NIV).
To overcome procrastination, you

In the 11th chapter of John, you’ll read a remarkable story about Jesus raising a man from the dead. Jesus goes to Lazarus’ tomb, and says, “Lazarus, come out” (John 11:43). The dead man is dead no longer, and walks out of his tomb.
Just a few verses later in Chapter 12, Jesus is at a dinner party with Lazarus and others.
Can you imagine what it would have been like at that dinner party? What if you, not knowing who Lazarus was, sat next to him and started asking him questions?
“How are you? What’s going on?”
“Oh, well, I was dead.”
“You… were dead? What do you mean?
“I mean I was dead! I was without life. But then Jesus gave me life!”
“Wait, what? Are you serious? How did he do that? Are you super special or something?”
“I don’t really know how. He’s that powerful. He’s God. And I’m not special. Jesus just loves me.”
It would be an amazing conversation, and yet it’s the same conversation that a child of God might have with someone. Read it again from that perspective. For those who have accepted the lifegiving salvation of Jesus Christ, there is more than death — there is resurrection. When we die, we will go to be with our Father in heaven. And on the final judgment day, whenever that will be, we will be given new, perfect bodies. No pains, no tears, no hunger, no cancer. We will live in perfect bodies in a perfect land with our perfect Father. What a day that will be!
So, what’s your choice? Do you look forward to your casket or urn? Or do you want the resurrecting power of Jesus Christ to make you like Lazarus, able to say in complete joy: “I was dead, but Jesus gave me life!”
Josh Bootsma Director of Ministries, Covenant Fellowship Church cfcsh.org
need to identify the root causes of your behavior to postpone or avoid tasks and develop effective strategies against it. It’s important to develop certain personality characteristics. Three key characteristics are self-discipline, perseverance, and responsibility. Self-discipline allows you to control your emotions, actions, and thoughts. Perseverance provides mental toughness, resilience, and ability to continue working on a goal, even when faced with obstacles, setbacks, and failures. Responsibility requires taking ownership and being accountable for your actions and the resulting outcome.
Here are some effective ways to kill procrastination:
1. Create a to-do list. Get a notes app or paper and write down all the things you must do regardless of significance. Then prioritize them in order of importance with deadlines. Go through the list from urgent to least.
2. Set a timer or alarm. Using a timer breaks down your work into manageable chunks of time which provides a deadline to motivate you and makes you more productive.
3. Eliminate distractions. Turn off the television, podcast, and phone, get off the internet and social media, and stop trying to find something else to do besides your urgent and need-to-do tasks. Create a work environment that is free from distractions.
4. Tackle the easiest task first. Quickly tackle and finish the easiest things on your list first. This provides a sense of accomplishments fast and early in the day. This gives fuel and energy to build momentum and excitement to complete other items on the list.
5. Start developing habits. Habits can take 14 to 270 days (average 60 days) to master. Simple habits of going to bed at 9 PM, morning journaling, eating breakfast, doing chores, etc. will help build a routine and eliminate procrastination.
What things in your life do you keep procrastinating on and waiting until “tomorrow”? Kill procrastination today by starting a simple task now. Y? Why Not! Like us on Facebook https://www. facebook.com/ywhynotshow/
MUNSTER, Ind. – (January 23, 2026) –
Join the MidAtlantic Men as they settle an age-old debate: who has the superior tunes, the US or the UK? This high-energy, oneof-a-kind concert will be held at Highland High School, 9135 Erie Street, Highland, IN 46322 on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Single tickets available on the day of the performance for $30.
For more information, please contact Carolyn Borchardt at 219-932-9795 or cborc86914@aol.com.
“Witty, charming, and vocally unmatched…”
Nathalia
Garuchia, MSC Seashore Entertainment Manager
The MidAtlantic Men are an exciting vocal trio who have dazzled audiences across the country (and ocean!) with their captivating harmonies and magnetic charm. Comprised of two endearing Americans and one witty Brit, they’ve set out on a musical quest to settle the timeless debate:
which side of the pond, Great Britain or the United States, truly has the superior tunes? Featuring iconic hits by superstars like Elvis, Madonna and Billy Joel, as well as The Beatles, Queen, Elton John, and more, this concert provides fun, familyfriendly entertainment for everyone. The MidAtlantic Men finally settle the score… who does it better? That’s for you to decide! Click Here To View A Video Of MidAtlantic Men.
Lakeshore Community Concerts has been presenting concerts to the community since 1947. LCC is committed “to offer to every man, woman and child the opportunity to experience the magic of live performance at an affordable cost.”
Live On Stage, Inc. provides excellent, affordable, entertainment attractions and support services to an American community of concert presenters. View a video about Live On Stage.




Black
Earthen pots 3. Detroit ___, football team
Primary ingredient of guacamole
Late-night flights 6. Certain berth
Brawl 8. Long-jawed fish 9. Invest with the authority of high power
Promising 11. Such is life, French (3 wds) 12. Cheese on crackers 13. E-mail, e.g.
18. Knocked off, in a way 22. Balloon filler
Opportune
director
Bridget Fonda, to Jane
Artist’s stand
Quench
Cognizant
24. Kind of mill 26. Pasta choice 27. Beanies 28. Deuce topper 29. Rip
30. Bridge toll unit
31. Voted into office again 32. Impertinent
35. Elevated, single-track train
36. Basis of many modern legal systems (2 wds)
38. Large caves
39. Ancient supercontinent 41. Publicity, slangily 42. Acquire 44. Call used to attract attention 45. Monetary unit in India 46. “Come in!” 47. Class
48. Preserve, in a way
49. Product of protein metabolism
50. Basketball maneuver 53. Oolong, for one
National Groundhog Day on February 2nd each year asks one question. Will he see his shadow? Ok, well, maybe it asks another question. Will there be six more weeks of winter? The day is celebrated each year in the United States and Canada.
Source: nationaldaycalendar.com





Virginia Sommer, nee Novicky, age 82, of Huntley, IL, formerly of Riverdale passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Loving mother of James (Brenda) Sommer, Richard (Sharon) Sommer and Kathleen (Robert) Pilat. Cherished grandmother of Ryan (Suzie) Sommer, John Sommer, Jonathan (Sarah) Sommer, Samantha (Samson) Chan, Laura (Daryon) Shariati, Logan Sommer, and Evan Pilat. Great-grandmother of Brynn Chan, Atticus Chan, and Chloe Chan. Dear sister of Elaine (Leland) Simmons and brother-inlaw Denis Swiatkowski. Beloved aunt of several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her husband John Sommer, her parents Stanley and Stella Novicky, her daughter-inlaw Linda Sommer, and her sister-in-law Sharon Swiatkowski.
Visitation Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until time of the funeral mass at 11:30 a.m. at St. Jude the Apostle/Christ Our Savior Catholic Parish, 880 E 154th St, South Holland, IL. Interment Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery— Calumet City, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude. org).
For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com

Susan A. Fennema, nee Ball, age 80, of Lansing, IL, passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Loving mother of Heather Lee Plebanski, late infant John Michael Fennema, and the late David James Fennema. Cherished grandmother of Bailey Nicholas Plebanski, Madison Ashley Plebanski, and Spencer Fennema. Great-grandmother of Paisley Jordan Olson and Kialey Jordan Olson. Dear sister of Joan Conces, late Marilyn (Jack) Wories, and Carolyn Fieldhouse. Preceded in death by her parents Harold and Frances Ball. Private services will be held. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home—Dyer, IN.

Vernon A. Lich, age 91, of Schererville, IN, formerly of Lansing, IL, went home to his Lord and Savior on Monday, January 19, 2026. Beloved husband of late Nellaine J. Lich, nee Slager. Loving father of the late Vernon A. (late Beverly) Lich Jr., Lois (Jeffrey) Fennema, and Janet (Larry) Boomsma. Proud grandfather of Melissa (Mike) Newenhouse, Scott (Jess) Lich, Jason (Meredith) Fennema, Brad (Meredith) Fennema, Kristi (Lance) Beltman, Derek (Liz) Boomsma, and Jodi (Dave) Bultema. Greatgrandfather of Mackenzie (Jake) Pals, Kase, Danica, Cohen, Elsie, Christopher, Isaac, Joryn, Adley, Owen, Emery, Kaiden, Tenley, Haisley, Brady, Claire, Brynlee, Ember, David, Westen, and expected 21st great grandchild soon. Great-great-grandfather of Hans. Dear brother of Luella (late Marvin) Witt. Kind uncle of Dale Witt, Lynn (Scott) Yonkman, and Kent Witt. Preceded in death by his parents Benus and Johanna Lich and his infant sister Elaine Betty Lich.
Vern was a U.S. Army Korean War Veteran and a proud member of the IBEW Local #134. Vern was a loving husband, dad, grandpa, great grandpa and great great grandpa who loved and trusted the Lord. He loved his family well and valued the time he spent with them. Vern was the best prayer warrior. He enjoyed any adventure to see his ”grands”. Jigsaw and word search puzzles were a favorite pastime. Vern was always willing to lend a hand with a variety of home projects and he enjoyed woodworking - he made several windmills and each spring would repair the broken pieces and repaint them. Vern suffered from diabetes and managed it well for 55 years. He was fiercely loved and will be deeply missed.
Visitation Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Funeral service Friday, January 23, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Bethel Christian Reformed Church, 3500 Glenwood-Lansing Rd. Lansing, IL, with services conducted by Pastor Kyle Beckrich and Pastor Dan Bloesch. Interment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – Elwood, IL.

Joyce Ann HooppawWinner, nee Finney, age 92, of Cedar Lake, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, January 19, 2026. She was blessed with two loving husbands during her lifetime being the dedicated wife of William Hooppaw and Robert Winner, both preceding her in death. She was born in Illinois but retired with her husband William Hooppaw to Arizona in 1986. Devoted mother of Terri (Vincent) Spretnjak and Gael (James) Johnson. Cherished grandmother of Marianne (Derek) Wentworth, Joseph Spretnjak and Willamette Johnson; greatgrandmother of Owen, Jeremiah and Ethan. Dear aunt of Lisa Gallagher, Michelle Estes, Randy Grubb, James Bellinger, Annie Hammon, Ruth Bellinger-Holliday, Bret Hooppaw, Jami HooppawKeys, Jill Shovelier and the late Rick Grubb. Preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Lorene Finney, and sisters, Earlene Ford and Carole Finney-Estes. Joyce was loved by her family and friends, and she will be dearly missed. She was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star for many years and served as Worthy Matron on two separate occasions while living in Arizona. She was further honored to serve as Grand Lecturer for the Grand Chapter of Arizona. Also very active in the Daughters of the Nile, she dedicated her life to Christ and was willing to be of service to those in need. She was an accomplished pianist, having played in her father’s churches where he ministered throughout his life. A voracious reader, an avid Cubs fan, and a lover of animals, she brought joy to many lives.
Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home at 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt. 30/Pleasant Springs Lane) Dyer, Indiana. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit www.SMITSFH.com.


(Family Features) Walking in the door to the smell of homemade chili is sure to warm you up from the inside-out, but if you forgot to set up the slow cooker before heading out the door in the morning, don’t fret - a hearty bowl of beans, beef and stewed goodness can still await.
For a quick and easy version of the comfort food classic, consider this Quick Homecooked Chili that’s made in a skillet and ready in half an hour. Just brown ground beef with a chopped onion, stir in beans, tomato sauce, cubed sweet potato and a few simple seasonings and you’re well on your way to a winter warmup.
Find more easy ways to feed your family by visiting Culinary.net.
Quick Homecooked Chili
Recipe adapted from Allrecipes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) stewed
tomatoes
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 sweet potato, cubed water (optional)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 pinch garlic powder salt, to taste pepper, to taste sour cream (optional) sliced avocado (optional)
In large saucepan over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until meat is browned and onion is tender, 5-7 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce, kidney beans, stewed tomatoes with juices, diced tomatoes with green chilies and cubed sweet potato. Add water to reach desired consistency.
Season with chili powder and garlic powder. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Bring to boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 15 minutes.
Serve with sour cream and sliced avocado, if desired.
The Cook County Assessor’s Office processed more than 1.5 million property tax-saving exemptions for homeowners last year, while returning millions of dollars in revenue to taxing districts and reaching a new milestone in its affordable housing incentive, with 1,500 properties joining the program.
In addition to its regular work of valuing property, the Assessor’s Office also processes exemptions. These are savings that homeowners are entitled to receive, with the most common being the Homeowner and Senior exemptions.
Exemptions are also available for lowincome seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, and others. The regular exemption period for the coming year will open in Spring 2026.
For 2025, the Assessor’s Office processed a total of more than 1.5 million exemptions. This number included more than 1 million Homeowner Exemptions, 372,000 Senior Exemptions, and 123,000 Senior Freeze Exemptions.
In recent years, the Assessor’s Office has successfully advocated for the state legislature to allow automatic renewal of more exemptions, including those for seniors, persons with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. Because homeowners no longer have to re-apply every year, these exemptions have seen record-high numbers of recipients.
The Assessor’s Office has also advocated for the state legislature to allow automatic renewal of the Senior Freeze exemption, and will continue to do so this coming year.
The office’s Erroneous Exemptions department, which investigates cases in which homeowners may have wrongfully claimed exemptions, processed more than 1,400 cases between December 2024 and November 2025. In total, the department collected $6.7 million in revenue. Of this, $4.4 million will be returned to taxing
districts across Cook County.
Affordable Housing program continues growth
The Affordable Housing Special Assessment Program (AHSAP), which is administered by the Assessor’s Office, also continued to grow in 2025.
About 1,500 properties are enrolled in or approved for the program, which gives an incentive to multi-family building owners who keep rents affordable for tenants. The program has helped preserve affordable housing across Cook County.
The AHSAP incentive also promotes the construction of new affordable housing in parts of the county that may be unaffordable for working-class families. Four new properties, including three in Chicago’s Fulton Market and West Loop areas, joined the program in 2025.
“The success of this program lies in its ability to keep thousands of units of affordable housing in reach for tenants living there, while helping bring about the construction of much-needed new housing,” said Assessor Kaegi.
Office again participates in record number of events
The Assessor’s Office also participated in a record-breaking 240 events for homeowners in 2025, helping property owners file appeals and apply for exemptions. Seventy-five events were in Spanish, also a new milestone for the office.
“Our Outreach team works incredibly hard to help homeowners get fair access to all the resources they need,” said Assessor Kaegi. “It’s through community engagement like this that we make the property tax system more equitable for everyone.”
For a calendar of events, visit https:// www.cookcountyassessoril.gov/event-list. For more information about exemptions, visit https://www.cookcountyassessoril. gov/exemptions.
January 22, 2026 – Heating fires peak during the winter months, with nearly half of all U.S. home heating equipment fires (46 percent) occurring between December and February. In response to this increased risk, the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) is sharing simple but critical ways to stay warm and safe through the colder months and during winter storms.
“Each winter, when heating systems kick into high gear, so do the number of home heating fires,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “Our goal is to make sure people know when and where home heating fires tend to occur, along with ways to prevent them.”
According to the latest NFPA data, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual estimated average of 37,365 home heating equipment fires from 2020-2024, accounting for 11 percent of all reported home fires during this time; these fires resulted in 417 civilian deaths, 1,260 injuries, and $1.2 billion in property damages. Space heaters and heating stoves were the type of heating equipment responsible for the largest shares of losses in home heating equipment fires, accounting for nearly half (47 percent) of the fires, but over seven out of 10 deaths (73 percent) and seven out of 10 (70 percent) of the injuries.
In addition, colder temperatures across much of the country and fewer hours of sunlight result in people spending more time indoors, which means electricity is used more hours of the day, and, in many cases, households are doing more cooking, which represents the leading cause of home fires year-round.
“With winter storm alerts currently stretching 2,000 miles across central, southern, and northeastern portions of the United States, it’s a good time to make sure everyone knows how to operate a generator safely in the event of a power outage,” Carli added.
NFPA offers the following tips and recommendations to reduce the threat of home fires and associated hazards during the winter months:
Heating safety:
• Make sure all heating equipment is in good working order. Heating systems and chimneys should be cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, as specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters.
• Use space heaters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Turn them off when leaving the room or going to sleep.
• Fireplaces should have a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container; keep the container a
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County.
Registration Number: M26001254 on JANUARY 15, 2026 under the assumed business name of JUST BELIEVE FAMILY CHILD CARE with the business located at 490 N JULIAN ST, THORNTON, IL 60476. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is EUNICE M. FLOWERS 490 N JULIAN ST, THORNTON, IL 60476, USA.

safe distance away from your home.
Carbon monoxide:
• Choose a CO alarm that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and mounting height.
• CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards. For the best protection, interconnect all CO alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Test CO alarms at least once a month; replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• If the audible trouble signal sounds, check for low batteries. If the battery is low, replace it. If it still sounds, call the fire department.
Lansing Self Storage located at 17506 Chicago Ave, Lansing, IL 60438, (708) 2518350 intends to hold an auction of the goods stored in the following unit in default for nonpayment of rent: Kimberly Little, Unit #148; Tiffani Kight, Unit #59. Auction will be conducted online on www.storageauctions.com

• If the CO alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel arrive.
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not covered with snow.
• During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build-up.
• A generator should be used in a well-ventilated location outdoors away from windows, doors and vent openings.
Electrical safety:
• Only use one heat-producing appliance (such as a coffeemaker, toaster, space heater, etc.) plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time.
• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets.
• Extension cords are intended for temporary use. Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets so you don’t have to use extension cords.
• Call a qualified electrician or your landlord if you have frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers; a tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance; a discolored or warm wall outlet; a burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance; flickering or dimming lights; or sparks from an outlet.
Cooking safety:
• Keep a close eye on what you’re cooking; never leave cooking food unattended. For foods with longer cooking times, such as those that are simmering or baking, set a timer to help monitor them carefully.
• Clear the cooking area of combustible items, keeping anything that can burn - such as dish towels, oven mitts, food packaging, and paper towels - at least three feet away from cooking equipment.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove.
• Keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
• Create a “kid and pet free zone” of at least three feet around the cooking area and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
In addition, NFPA’s “Put a Freeze on Winter Fires” campaign with the U.S. Fire Administration works to promote a host of winter safety issues, including home heating.
For this release and other announcements about NFPA initiatives, research, and resources, please visit the NFPA press room.
About the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)
Founded in 1896, NFPA® is a global self-funded nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property, and economic loss due to fire, electrical, and related hazards. The association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach, and advocacy; and by partnering with others who share an interest in furthering the NFPA mission. For more information, visit nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be viewed online for free at nfpa.org/freeaccess.
Calumet City Public Librar y
Address: 660 S Manistee Ave, Calumet City, IL 60409
Phone: (708) 862-6220
Email: info@calumetcitypl.org www calumetcitypl.org/index.html
Dolton Public Libr ar y
Address: 14037 Lincoln Ave, Dolton, IL
Phone: 708-849-2385
Email: lincoln@doltonpubliclibrary.org
Website: www.doltonpubliclibrary.org
BEGINNERS COMPUTER CLASSES
Every Monday, from 1-2 pm. Call to register 708-849-2385
THRIVE ON TUESDAYS W/ MARIO KOONCE
Every 4th Tuesday from 10-11 am. Nutrition Tips, Fitness & Exercise Guidance, Preventive Care, and the Importance of Sleep and Rest.
ONGOING PROGRAMS
EVERY MONDAY: STAY FIT with SHEENA STINSON: In-house workout program from 9:30-10:30 am. Register by calling 708-849-2385.
EVERY THIRD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH: BETWEEN THE PAGES: A VIRTUAL STORY TIME! Register by calling 708-849-2385 the link will be emailed to you.
EVERY SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH: TODDLER TIME with Ms. Brooks: 10:45-11:45 AM. No registration is necessary. Daycares are welcome!
EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH, SIMON SAYS..GET UP AND MOVE with Ms. Lottie Maria: 11:30-12 PM. Jump, Clap, and Dance. Toddlers and Daycares are welcome! Call to register at 708-849-2385 ext 4.
HOMEWORK HELP: Call 708-849-2385 ext. 4 to make an appointment with Ms. Brooks on Fridays or Saturdays. Ages 5-12.
Hammond Public Librar y
Address: 564 State St., Hammond
Phone: (219) 931-5100, ext. 310 or 307
Email: swishl@hammond.lib.in.us
Website: www.hammond.lib.in.us
Har vey Public Libr ar y
Address: 15441 Turlington, Harvey, IL 60426
Phone: 708-331-0757x3200
Email: has@harvey.lib.il.us Website:www.harvey.lib.il.us
Join Us For Vir tual Programs : Each day at 4:00 pm, “stop” in for online family-fun at the Harvey Library Tuesday: Craft Wednesday: Story Time Thursday: Bacon Bits & Cooking Tips Monthly Virtual Music Class (Friday, check calendar each month)
Homewood Public Librar y

Address: 17917 Dixie Hwy, Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: (708) 798-0121
Email: hplhelp@homewoodlibrary.org
Website: www.homewoodlibrary.org/
TECH HELP CLASS
Feb. 2 | 6pm | Ages 18+
Registration Required
LEGOS @ THE LIBRARY
Feb. 7 | 1pm | Grades K-6
Feb. 23 | 4pm | Grades K-6
BIG SCREEN REWATCH
Feb. 3 | 6:30pm | All Ages
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale
THE CURIOUS CARNIVAL: A VINTAGE CIRCUS MURDER MYSTERY
Feb. 7 | 6:30pm | Ages 18+
Registration Required
TRIVIA Feb. 9 | 6:30pm | Ages 18+
SPECIAL SENIOR SOCIAL HOUR Feb. 13 | 1pm | Ages 55+
Lansing Public Libr ar y
Address: 2750 Indiana Ave., Lansing IL
Phone: 708-474-2447
Email: shari@lansingpl.org
Website: www.lansingpl.org
Riverdale Public Librar y
Address: 208 W 144th St
Riverdale, IL 60827
Phone: (708) 841-3311
Email: library@rpld.org
Website: www.rpld.org
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Riverdale Public Library District Food Pantry
Our food pantry is open to everyone and is located in the entryway of library. Donations are also welcome and can be dropped off at the Circulation Desk. Please ensure that food items are non-perishable, non-glass containers and not expired.
Weekly Walking Group 9 – 10 am Ages: Adults/Seniors This walking program is for everyone interested in achieving a healthier lifestyle. What better way to start your path to better physical and emotional health, than on your feet making strides to help your heart and improve your general health.
South Holland Public Librar y
Address: 16250 Wausau Ave., South Holland IL Phone: 708-527-3160 or 708-580-6161
Email: library@southhollandlibrary.org
Website: shlibrary.org/events-calendar
Thor nton Public Librar y
Address: 115 E. Margaret St. Thornton, IL.
Email: library@thorntonil us
Website: https://www thorntonlibrary org/






R/D Heating & Cooling. IL. and IN. 219-616-3281
SMITH PAINTING 30
YRS EXP - FREE ESTIMATES Mention Sherry, get 5% off job. Call Mike 2197429867
MOVING SERVICES: Pick up/ Delivery Service. Small moves; in-house move; store-to-home. Assembly: Furniture & exercise equipment (Ikea, Office Depot, etc.) Call Rob daily until 9pm 708-898-8668
JUNK REMOVAL Time to make space! Cleanouts (garage attic, basement, shed). Hauling away appliances, furniture, trash. WE RECYCLE! Call ‘til 8pm. 708-898-8668
CAR / TRUCK TROUBLE?
Vehicle shopping? Onlocation diagnosis: Will find needed repairs / maintenance. Uncertain of mechanic estimate? 32 years exper. Any day! 708-898-8668
Vehicles
2022 Jeep Cherokee 4x4, Trail-rated V6, Leather Seats, Only 5,000 miles. $37,000. 708-796-5331

2009 Chevy Silverado, 1GCEK39069Z164494b. Extended Cab, 4WD, 6.5’ bed. V8 5.3L Flex Fuel. New Battery &Alternator, April 2025. Tires, 1 year old. Some Rust on Driver’s Rear Quarter Panel. 149k miles Asking $4,000. If interested, Call 708-9138624
1997 Lincoln Mark 8, low miles 53,000. Super clean. $5,000. 708-668-3851. Silver grey, third owner. Shererville, Indiana.IN

DESPARATE NEED SMALL CAR FOR 80 YEAR OLDECONOMICAL CAR CAN BE DAMAGED IF RUNNING FOR LOW INCOME SR. CITIZ. Does not have to pass emission test if the price is right - Call 219-801-0955
For Rent
HOUSES FOR RENT IN PHOENIX. THREE AND FOUR BEDROOMS, SECTION 8 WELCOME. $1650 / mo. One month security deposit and background check required. Have yards. Extra charge for appliances. Available immediately. Pets negotiable. Driveway parking available. Call Renetta Thomas for more information 708-4178384.
CONDO FOR RENT IN LANSING. SPACIOUS 2-BEDROOM, NEWLY DECORATED, $1600/ MONTH, 1 month security, no smoking, no pets. Section 8 welcome. Private parking for one car. Serious Inquiries only. Call 708-646-8652. Ask for Mr or Mrs. Jones.

APARTMENT FOR RENT- Spacious 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 2nd floor of duplex in East Chicago, IN. $1300/month. Call (708) 968-0788, or search for 4925 Walsh Avenue on Zillow for more details and pictures.
3 BED 1BATH RANCH HOUSE, COMPLETELY RENOVATED WITH LARGE PRIVATE, FENCED YARD IN SOUTH HAMMOND ON THE BORDER WITH MUNSTER. All new appliances including washer and dryer. 12 month lease. Pets negotiable. Tenant pays utilities. Off-street parking, nice neighbors, close to the expressway. Call 323-4730673. $1,995 per month, with one month security deposit.
BEAUTIFUL SOUTH HOLLAND ROOM FOR RENT IN A SINGLE FAMILY HOME. King size bed, semi private bathroom with Jacuzzi tub. No cooking, full size refrigerator and microwave in room. Free lights, free gas. Only $225 a week, $500 move in fee. Background check required. Call 708-8433932 for more info.
APARTMENT FOR RENT- 2 BEDROOMS 2ND FLOOR. CALUMET CITY IL. $1200 RENT and one month security. No smoking, no pets and no section 8. Street parking. Serious inquiries only. Call 708 466-7272
Four cemetery lots next to each other in Oakland Memory Lanes in Dolton. Price negotiable. Call 407-709-5285
Snow Blower 5hp Two Stage, Like New, Runs Great $150; Snow Blower Single Stage, Like-new, Runs great $115; Both have electric start. Dyer area 708-837-9814. Please leave message.
Shih Tzu Puppies for sale, $800 each, Puppies are 2 months old with first shots. Puppies available 11/15/25. Call Karen at 708-7319137
Grandpa’s golf collection - PING putters $49, golf balls $6/dozen and up, kids sets $39, senior TI-Drivers $49, display sports shadow boxes, $39. Call 708-3393429 for more info. South Holland
Zebra Finches For sale $25 each Call 7083729615
Butterball Turkey Frier $30; Cuisinart Bread Maker $35; Dell Printer $20; Sony Walkman $8; Halloween & Xmas Ceramic Houses $10-$20 ea; Hoover Vac, $12; Beach Towels $1; Dunlop GOlf Clubs $40; Mandolin Slicer $15 new; 70’ x 1/2” EMT Conduit $20; Backgammon Game $12; G Foreman Grill $12; Trailer Tire 4.8” x 12” Mounted, $8. Call 708-877-6088
Trek 7600 multi-trak bike. Top condition. Like new! $100. 1-708-891-4798.
Steamer travel trunk, 1890’s dome top , excellent condition, $175.00. Avon flashing Santa, boxed.. $20.00 708-645-4245
Wheelchair, 18” wide seat, 2024 Cardinal Health model, $75 asking price. Call 219397-4649
Heat surge electric fireplace, Amish style cabinet, remote.. Excellent. $75.00.. Don’t need . Moved to a fireplace 708 645 4245
Wanted
Looking for room to rent with own bathroom. NW Indiana/Lansing area. Elderly care experience. 40+ Non-drinking/smoking male w/ maintnenance skills. Prefer kitchenette & garage space. 708-898-8668
REHOMING 7 MONTH
OLD AMERICAN BULLY PUPS. Pet Home Only. Great Temperaments, Friendly, Playful, Social and Very Healthy. Up to date on Vaccinations. 2 Males, 2 Females serious Inquiries Only. Parents on Premises. $250 Obo. 773-457-9616
Looking for DEGAN OR MUSSER VIBRAPHONE CALL 219-801-0955
WANTED - As many can of salmon fish as you have. 219-801-0955
WANTED: Electric chainsaws and as many chains as you have. Exterior Brown Paint. 219-801-0955 Anyone selling old coins at a low price or just want to get rid of some old coins - call (708) 937-5462