LET GO! Those two small words can change your whole life. Let go of the extra physical items in your home. Let go of past hurts and painful memories. Let go of relationships that weigh you down. We often hold on to things, pain, and people for far too long, preventing us from receiving anything new, good, and wholesome if we’re already full of what no longer helps or nurtures us. Sometimes to grow and gain freedom, it requires that you begin with letting go. It almost seems like God should have made us like an octopus with eight arms because we hold on to a lot of things as if we are holding on for dear life. We use one arm to hold the pain from a divorce, two arms to hold clothes we can’t wear, one arm for the loss promotion, and another arm for an old argument. Some days, we could use all eight arms at once. But no one deserves to live weighed down by the past or buried under a pile of clutter. Holding on affects how we think, how we act, and what we believe we deserve. We often accept what we are used to, even when it is not good for us.
First, LET GO of the physical clutter. Many of us have closets, basements, and garages full of items we never use. There are even apps where people sell items they have been holding onto for years. These extra things do not just clutter your home; they clutter your mind. When you are always searching for space or digging through piles, your mind feels busy and stressed.
That high school prom dress from 15 years ago can go. Donate it. Pass it down. Bless someone else with it. Clothes that no longer fit because you are hoping to lose weight “one day” can go too. Celebrate who you are today. Make room for what fits your life now. A clear space can help create a clear mind.
Second, LET GO of past hurts and painful memories. When we sit and replay the old pain in our minds, it stagnates us, while the other person has often moved on. They are living their life while
we’re stuck in yesterday. Holding on to hurt causes emotional and even physical stress. You may feel anger, sadness, loneliness, or fear over and over again. For example, maybe you were once rejected when asking someone out. That one moment may now keep you from trying again. You bring that past experience into your present and let it shape your future. It only lives again when we bring it back. Forgive, let go, and move on. Forgiveness does not mean what happened was okay. It means you choose freedom over pain. When you let go of the hurt, you take back control of your life.
Third, LET GO of unhealthy relationships. No one should live with abuse, mistreatment, or disrespect. Physical, mental, and emotional abuse is abuse— it is not love. If you are confused about what love truly is, read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not selfseeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
Healthy relationships should bring support, encouragement, and respect. If a relationship is draining, confusing, or harming you, it may be time to step back. You may need to redefine the relationship or walk away. If you ever feel unsafe, seek help immediately. Your safety and wellbeing matter.
Do an honest inventory of your life. Start small. Choose one drawer to clean out. Pick one painful memory to release. Review your relationships and ask yourself if they are helping you grow or holding you back. Keep the good. Choose to LET GO what is not good for you to make room for peace, happiness, and new shoes. Y? Why Not!
Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ ywhynotshow/
The Bears Must Stay in Chicago.
by Dr. Hermene Hartman
The Chicago Bears are part of Chicago. You think Chicago, you think lakefront, skyline, and then the sports teams, with the Bears at the top of the list. Go Bears. Outside of Chicago, it’s not real. Chicago. So now here we are, with the Bears choosing sites. Should they move to Arlington or even out of state to Hammond, Indiana? The answer is NO to both. The Bears belong in Chicago. Let’s work it out.
For the Bears Stadium to make economic sense, we have to find uses beyond nine Sundays. The stadium has to be rethought for other uses. The metrics don’t work. Stadium economics are proximity economics. Density is an essential element of a thriving entertainment district. Higher density means more potential customers, more transit and mobility options, and more consistent demand for non-NFL events. We have to consider programming concerts, mixed-use districts, younger and more diverse markets, and stronger participation in exactly the kind of events and attractions that make a stadium a regional economic anchor. The concerts of Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and, coming this year, Bruno Mars make sense.
How about a Bad Bunny concert coming this way?
The Bears in Bronzeville Creates an Entertainment Corridor. . .
The Bears must remain in the Southside as an anchor institution. Alderman of the 4th Ward Lamont Robinson suggests. “A far more transformative solution is to build at the former Michael Reese Hospital site in Chicago’s Bronzeville—admittedly in the 4th Ward I represent.
Bringing the Bears to Bronzeville would be transformative for the South Side, Chicago, and Illinois. The area is already experiencing a renaissance.
A stadium could accelerate that momentum, anchoring growth in a historically significant community while creating jobs, housing opportunities, and long-term tax revenue. Paired with the privately funded Chicago Fire Stadium nearby, it could establish a powerful sports, entertainment, and commerce corridor on the Near South Side.”
The other alternative is to create a retractable roof over the present lakefront space at Soldier Field. This also may be the most economical solution. Spillover Effect
The “spillover” effect is the extent to which venue
or event dollars ripple into the surrounding economy. A recent analysis showed that every job near Soldier Field generates more additional jobs and earnings than the same job near Arlington Park. One job near Soldier Field produced 1.13 additional jobs and $144,431 in earnings, compared with 1.07 additional jobs and $103,651 in earnings near Arlington Park. These statistics speak loudly.
The Chicago Brand
And then there is the branding effect. The “Chicago” brand is strong and benefits from being located in a region with a dense economy, the deepest consumer market, a plentiful workforce, and the strongest multiplier effects. Chicago is the stronger platform for the Bears’ future success and for the region’s long-term economic benefit.
The team is not just about winning and losing on the field. Its value also depends on the durability of cash flow, tied to branding, corporate demand, and the ability to operate as a year-round entertainment platform. A suburban location can succeed, but it changes the dynamics of revenue drivers in ways that investors and sponsors notice. The “Chicago” identity carries a market premium that will resonate with sponsorship pricing, premium seating demand, and national visibility. The risk of diluting that market premium is NOT theoretical; it is real.
The image of Chicago is powerful. As the Bears’ games improved and the city’s energy rose with excitement, the sports bars toasted to the joy, and the television product and social media content sparkled; this is Chicago clicking. The aerial shots over Soldier Field, the lakefront, the majestic skyline, and the Bears fans in all their imagination, all of this rolling behind the stadium -- no suburban footprint can match or replicate it.
It is about aesthetics. It is about brand equity, broadcast value, and national marketing in its purest form. The Bears, as a franchise, are set against one of the most recognizable urban backdrops in America. When a team’s momentum is real, that setting amplifies it. The game becomes a city event, and Bears playing on a Sunday become a special holiday. The cash registers ring throughout the city, making it a sports mecca, and the city smiles at all levels. It is not Go Bears; it is Bears Stay.
An independent newspaper serving the area since 1957.
Published every week covering the towns of South Holland/Thornton, Lansing, Dolton/ Calumet City, Munster, Highland, and Schererville. Our circulation is independently audited by CAC.
ERRORS
We proofread all Classified ads. However, should a mistake occur, it can easily be corrected, provided it is brought to our attention.
Call 708-271-8971 to rectify an error. We cannot be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion.
Adjustment for error is limited to republication. In any event, adjustment for errors or omissions is limited to the cost of the space occupied.
CLASSIFIED ADS
The Shopper offers FREE non-business Classified Ads (20 word maximum). Business Classifieds are $25 for 20 words, $1.00 per word over.
Place ads online at www.myshopper.biz
NEWS
Email news items to general@myshopper.biz
Some content courtesy of Family Features and Capital News Illinois.
DEADLINE
Friday 4:00 pm for the following week’s issue.
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE
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.
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
RECONCILIATION CHURCH
833 East 168th St., South Holland 708-331-7755
www.reconciliationchurch.org
PASTOR GLEN MCCARTHY 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
Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36a). This means (1) his kingdom is not tied to one specific country or capital on Planet Earth. No zip code is the epicenter of his kingdom on earth. King Jesus reigns from heaven’s oval office. (2) He does not use worldly or sinful means to advance his kingdom. He does not coerce people into his kingdom by force or military might.
King Jesus advances his kingdom through the proclamation of the gospel. The gospel declares, “King Jesus came to liberate you from your sin, self-rule, Satan, and God’s eternal death sentence. He died to deliver you from God’s judgment and to destroy Satan. He rose again and reigns in heaven to complete God’s kingdom mission. Christ died, Christ was buried, Christ rose again to restore you and all creation to live under God’s rule again.”
How do you become a citizen
in God’s kingdom? “Repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15). Repentance is a change of mind, heart, and life. You have a change of mind and heart over defying God’s rule and saying, “My will be done.” You say to King Jesus, “Forgive my rebellion and self-rule and the ways I’ve acted out on them. Receive me into your kingdom. I kneel in submission to you.” That leads to a life increasingly submitted to Christ’s will. You also need to believe that Jesus is Savior and King.
Where is Christ’s kingdom of earth? In the heart of everyone who trusts and submits to King Jesus. And in their spheres of influence: homes, relationships, workplaces, communities, and institutions, as they love others in the name of Christ and live out and apply Christ’s kingdom principles where God has placed them. Richard Zekveld, Pastor, Covenant Fellowship Church cfcsh.org
9:30 a.m.
School 10:45 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
6
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
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
Calumet City Public Librar y
Address: 660 S Manistee Ave, Calumet City, IL 60409
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
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/
Lansing Public Libr ar y
Address: 2750 Indiana Ave., Lansing IL
Phone: 708-474-2447
Email: shari@lansingpl.org
Website: www.lansingpl.org
your library events to general@myshopper.biz
Riverdale Public Librar y
Address: 208 W 144th St Riverdale, IL 60827
Phone: (708) 841-3311
Email: library@rpld.org
Website: www.rpld.org
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: 708-527-3150
Email: library@shlibrary.org
Website: https://www.shlibrary.org/events
Thor nton Public Librar y
Address: 115 E. Margaret St. Thornton, IL.
Email: library@thorntonil us
Website: https://www thorntonlibrary org/
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Clara C. Wasko, nee Pszczola, age 98, of Highland, IN, passed away peacefully Saturday, February 21, 2026 with her family at her side. Clara found her greatest joy with her family. She is survived by her daughters, Carol Elliott, Sharon and Eileen Wasko; her granddaughter Kim (David) Nowak; and her cherished greatgrandchildren, Delaney and Joshua. Sisters Helen Rymarczyk, Barbara (Lynn) Mattingly, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Walter, her parents Vincent and Martha Pszczola, sisters and brothers-in-law Cecelia (Matt) Gross, Frank Rymarczyk, Rita (Joseph) Hynek, and niece Marilyn Evers. If you were fortunate to know Clara, you knew her warmth and simple joys. She loved watching the Cubs, chocolate, spending time working jigsaw puzzles, word searches, scratching lottery tickets, and hoping for someone to take her to the casino. Her gentle spirit, strength and enduring love for her family will be deeply missed. We now have another guardian angel watching over us. Visitation for family and friends to say their final goodbyes will be held Wednesday, February 25, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the prayer service at 12:30 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30./Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN. Private interment Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens –Schererville, IN. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Hospice of the Calumet Area (www. hospicecalumet.org) appreciated. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www. SMITSFH.com
Jerome R. “Jerry” Mackowiak, age 74, suddenly, of Highland, IN, formerly of California. Jerry was born January
7, 1952 and passed away Sunday, February 22, 2026. Father of Andrea Mackowiak. Dear brother of Marilyn (late John) Walsh and Raymond Mackowiak. Kind nephew of his aunts and uncles and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Jerome B. and Irene Mackowiak; grandparents Frank and Hattie Kwiecien and Bart and Minnie Mackowiak. Jerry was a graduate of Bishop Noll Institute, Class of 1969. He was a proud U.S. Navy Veteran having served our country from 1969 – 1973. He had various jobs and was a jack of all trades. Always willing to help out anyone in need, with no questions asked. He was loved by his family and many friends, and will be dearly missed Private services entrusted to Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219-3227300.
Wayne A. Deinema, age 94, of Lansing, IL, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Beloved husband of the late Joyce E. Deinema , nee Van Schouwen. Loving father of Beth (late Peter) Nyquist, Marcia (Randal) Tamminga, and Janice (Timothy) Van Zuidam. Cherished grandfather of Sarah (Josh) Huisman, Jill (Kevin) Schwendeman, Lauren Carter, Lindsey (Anthony) Kritikos, Elizabeth (Xavier) Counts, Nathan (Katie) Van Zuidam, Erica (Luke) Tambrini, and Jamie (Luke) Jansma; great-grandfather of Tyler, Jordan, Marybeth and Alyssa Huisman, Grant and Anders Schwendeman, Olivia and Elle Carter, Ava, Vivian Van Zuidam, Jackson, Annika, Aubrey, Charlotte, and Brody Kritikos, Lily, Michael, and Vince Tambrini, Laney, Casey, and Jay Jansma, James and Davis Counts. Dear brother of Sharon (Phil) VanDam, late Karen L. Deinema, and the late Edith (late John) McDermott. Preceded in death by his parents Peter and Eda Deinema. Wayne was a devoted family man who enjoyed attending the grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s
many wonderful events. He was an avid baseball fan, enjoyed fishing, and a good joke, he had a great sense of humor. Wayne was loved by his family, many friends, and will be dearly missed.
Visitation Friday, February 27, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 10:30 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN, with Rev. Josh Huisman officiating. Private interment Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery –Elwood, IL.
Randy A. Postema, age 63, of Dyer, IN, went home to his Lord and Savior on Wednesday February 25, 2026. Loving son of Ted (Trenice) and the late Sylvia Postema. Dear brother of Larry (Brenda) Postema. Kind uncle of Matthew (Katie) Postema, Andrew (Erica) Postema, and Renae (Jacob) Pausma. Great-uncle of Addison, Kaylee, RaeLynn, Theo, Peyton, Maverick, Ada, Nora, Aria, and Jase.
Randy loved serving the Lord and spending time with his family. He was a member of Covenant Fellowship Church of South Holland. He served the church as a janitor and also worked at Smits Farms for many years.
Visitation with family and friends Friday, March 6, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Covenant Fellowship Church of South Holland, 600 W 162nd St, South Holland, IL with Rev. Richard Zekveld officiating. Interment Oak Ridge Cemetery—Lansing, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to Elim Christian Services (www.elimcs.org).
For further information please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online guestbook and obituary at www.SMITSFH.com
Daniel E. Eizenga, age 70, of Cedar Lake, IN, went home to his Lord and Savior on Monday, February 23, 2026. Beloved husband of Linda Eizenga, nee Koster. Loving father of Joyce (Brandon) Beach, Patricia (Riley) Moldenhauer, Lisa Eizenga, and Brian Eizenga. Cherished grandfather of Joshua, Benjamin, and Alexander Beach, Ruby and Fia Moldenhauer.
Dear brother of Henry (Judy) Eizenga, Robert (Karen) Eizenga, Nancy Ruiz, James Eizenga, and the late George (Virginia) Eizenga. Kind uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Henry and Muriel Eizenga.
Dan dedicated 42 years to his love of the railroad, teaching us all it’s a privilege to wait for a train. He was a passionate bowler, achieving two perfect games and regularly bringing donuts home to celebrate. He loved his friends and family and never missed an opportunity to play a game of Hearts. He cherished Linda, his precious wife of 45 years. Most importantly, he loved the Lord, and we celebrate that he is rejoicing in glory with his Heavenly Father today.
Visitation Sunday, March 1, 2026 from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Funeral service Monday, March 2, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at Redeemer United Reformed Church, 10681 Park Place, St. John, IN with services conducted by Rev. Steve Swets. Interment Chapel Hill Gardens South –Oak Lawn, IL. Memorial donations may be given to Elim Christian Services or Hospice of the Calumet Area.
For further information please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online guestbook and obituary at www.SMITSFH.com
Timothy E. Blejski, age 73, of Dyer, IN, passed away peacefully Sunday, February 22, 2026. Loving husband of 52 years of Laura L. Blejski, nee Binkowski. Devoted father of Adam (Carolina) Blejski and Sarah (Adam) Paulson. Proud grandpa of Axel, Lilah, Emma, and Eva. Dear brother of Barbara (Bill) Scanlon. Preceded in death by his parents Edmund and Sally Blejski. Kind uncle of many nieces and nephews. Tim was loved by his family, and many friends, and will be dearly missed.
Tim and Laura were married for 52 wonderful years. Tim had a passion for music, playing guitar in a band in his younger years. His love of music was passed along and will live on within his children and grandchildren. Tim spent the last 11 years of his life doing what he loved most; being a Grandfather. Whether he was dressed up as Santa for Christmas, attending one of their many extracurricular events, or Face Timing on Sundays, Grandpa was always there with a loving smile.
To know Tim was to know that he was always tinkering. After retiring, Tim tapped back into his creative side spending his spare time building mini-Diorama’s.
Visitation Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. Prayer service Friday, February 27, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN, with Deacon Phillip Muvich officiating. For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com
E. Wilkening, age 89, of Lansing, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Beloved husband of the late
of Ann (Dan) Persenaire,
John (Lea) Wilkening, and Keith (Amy) Wilkening. Cherished grandfather of Hannah (Matt) Schoppen, Adam, Annaleah, and Daniel Persenaire, Jack and JoshuaWilkening, Alayna and Grant Wilkening. Dear brother of the late Pamela Wilkening. Proud uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents John and Lena Wilkening. Jack was a United States Air Force Veteran who served in Japan. He was a lifetime member of Sports Car Club of America, and he volunteered at Lansing Historical Society. Jack worked at Standard Oil and as a distributor for Matco Tools. He was an avid photographer and motorsport historian. He was a member of Grace Church in Lansing, IL. Jack was loved by many and will be dearly missed.
Visitation Friday, March 6, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Ln. Dyer, IN with Rev. Andy Nearpass officiating. Memorials may be given to Elim Christian Services (www. elimcs.org) or Lansing Historical Society. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – Elwood, IL. For further information please contact 219322-7300 or visit www. SMITSFH.com
William “Bill” Peter Gowan, age 76, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Loving father of the late Angela Campbell, Keith Gowan, and Kurt Gowan. Cherished grandfather of Richard Campbell, James Campbell, Curtis Campbell, and Sylas Gowan. Dear brother of Marie (Robert) Lagestee and Marlene (late Thomas) Grens. Preceded in death by his parents Samuel and Judith Gowan.
Bill drove a Pace bus for 39 years, driving over 1 million miles without an accident. He received a reward and a trip to Hawaii for his achievements. After he retired from Pace, he started a lawn service and handyman business. He loved helping many people. Private family services will be held. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN.
Jack
Sandra Jean Wilkening, nee Faber. Loving father
OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ELECTION, SPECIMEN BALLOTS, REFERENDA/QUESTIONS OF PUBLIC POLICY & POLLING PLACES
AVISO OFICIAL DE ELECCIÓN, BALOTA DE MUESTRA, REFERÉNDUMS / PREGUNTAS DE POLÍTICA PÚBLICA Y LUGARES DE VOTACIÓN
OFFICIAL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, by Monica Gordon, Cook County Clerk
that the Primary Election will be held in Suburban Cook County on:
que la elección primaria se llevará acabo en los suburbios de Cook County en:
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Martes, 17 de marzo de 2026
The Primary Election will be held in election precincts under the jurisdiction of the Election Division of the Cook County Clerk's Office.
La eleccion primaria tomara acabo en precintos de eleccion bajo la jurisdicción de la división de eleccion del Cook County Clerk's Office. The Polls for said Primary Election will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Locations are subject to change as necessity requires.
Las urnas para tal eleccion primaria estarán abiertas de las 6 a.m. hasta las 7 p.m. Localidades están sujetas a cambio por necesidad.
At the Primary Election the voters will vote on the following contests and referenda questions. Referenda/Questions of Public Policy will be voted upon in those precincts of Cook County under the jurisdiction of the Cook County Clerk in which a Unit of Local Government has requested the County Clerk’s Office to place said referenda/questions of public policy on the ballot.
En la eleccion primaria los votantes votaran por los siguientes puestos y cuestiones de referendo. Referendos/Cuestiones de Política Pública serán votadas en aquellos precintos de Cook County bajo la jurisdicción del Cook County Clerk en la cual una unidad de gobierno local le ha pedido a la oficina del County Clerk que provea dicho referendo/cuestión de política pública en la boleta.
TOWNSHIP OF THORNTON
OFFICIAL NOTICE OF REFERENDA/QUESTIONS OF PUBLIC POLICY
OFFICIAL NOTICE OF POLLING PLACES
The voting will be conducted at the following polling places for each of the aforesaid election precincts selected by the Cook County Clerk. Las votaciones tomaran lugar en cada de los antedichos precintos de elección seleccionados por el Cook County Clerk.
5 Gold Scams Every American Should Know About, and How to Spot Them, According to Expert
While institutions still issue warnings on safe investments and fraud avoidance, and with gold prices reaching record highs and going beyond $5,000 per ounce, scammers are preying more and more on Americans, especially seniors, to invest.
In the last two years, FBI Boston documented over 100 instances of a courier being used to pick up illicit cash or gold bars, with financial losses totaling over $26 million, and around 98% of these losses were reported by individuals over the age of 60.
According to Sam Bourgi, senior analyst at InvestorsObserver, as AI is easily accessible to everyone, financial scams are getting harder to spot and easier to commit, from generating websites to creating personal messages in seconds. He has identified five key gold scams that investors, especially seniors, should watch for amid booming gold prices.
By Investing a Little, You Might Be Losing a Lot More
It starts normally, an investor buys a small amount of gold at a regular price, from an ad in the paper. This isn’t necessarily a black-and-white scam. Real gold is sold at or slightly below the spot price, then the investor is repeatedly pressured to buy more expensive gold at heavily marked-up prices.
“This is not a con as we understand it, however, when they are selling generational wealth in the ad, for elderly people, it sounds like a good idea. Chances are, they do not know the real prices, not only in gold value, but things like dealer costs. And by constantly getting pressured with calls, they easily spend much more than they should, leaving them high and dry in the end,” says Bourgi.
Social Media Shopping
Social media is now not only meant for sharing memories or chatting with friends, but for shopping as well. It starts with a fake store, using a real store’s name, advertising gold or silver jewelry, with prices that, for some, would raise red flags, but to those less experienced, it would easily catch attention.
The following steps are simple: advertise a good price and get attention, emphasize that the store is closed today, but you can reserve the jewelry by making a deposit, and get the money.
According to Bourgi, people should never trust online shops that advertise surprisingly good prices, but really don’t want consumers to come and see the jewelry for themselves.
“Having the right knowledge of Generative AI allows you to makeshift an online store with images in several minutes. What scammers do is take a real store’s name, even pictures, and play the persuasion game. The thing is, if the next day you go pick up the jewelry, you would find yourself at a fake address or some random back alley.”
Unreliable Payment Methods
One thing that should immediately raise red flags if people are investing in precious metals is the way the seller is requesting payment.
Chances are, if the sellers do not accept credit cards, any bank involvement, this is a sign of a scam. A legitimate seller should not be against using traceable, secure payment methods that offer buyer protection.
“Wire transfers are irreversible or hard to trace. No legitimate seller would be against bank involvement. If they are, verify everything they are telling you, through official websites or sources,” notes Bourgi.
Bogus Investment Platforms
If someone decides to buy gold-backed tokens on an investment platform, it is crucial to check if it is real and credible. There have been instances where people invested large sums in gold through investment websites, which increased in value quickly. However, when trying to withdraw, mysterious taxes appeared, and funds got frozen.
“In this case, the money got into scammers’ pockets the second it left your bank. And this is money you won’t get back. It is pointless to pay the mysterious taxes, as your funds are locked inside a fake platform. If it is not a popular website, check reviews, check registration”, explains Bourgi.
Recovery Scams
There are cases when people get scammed twice. First, someone ends up buying fake precious metals and loses a considerable amount of money. Assuming it was an expensive buy, scammers sell the buyer’s personal information.
When the buyer realizes there was a scam, a person claiming to be a lawyer or a government official reaches out and offers help.
“Never trust anyone who claims to be a government official or someone else whom you cannot verify from trusted sources. Especially if they ask you to make payments up front. You lost money when you both bought gold, it happens, but don’t make the same mistake twice,” says Bourgi. “Remember, no one will ask you for your bank details and important information through the phone. Check them online, call the bank, but do not trust anyone who asks for money or information”.
ABOUT INVESTORS OBSERVER
InvestorsObserver is a trusted source of independent financial analysis, market insights, and investment research for individuals and institutions. Founded to empower retail investors with actionable intelligence, InvestorsObserver delivers timely commentary, data-driven studies, and accessible financial tools designed to simplify complex market trends. Its research and insights have been featured by various media outlets, including Yahoo, The Guardian, Morning Star, Nasdaq, and more.
NOTE: The letter (N) following the polling place address denotes that the polling place itself is not accessible to the handicapped although other parts of the facility may be accessible. An exemption has been granted by the State Board of Elections and signs are posted indicating if the whole building is accessible or if there is a special entrance.
NOTA: La letra (N) después de la dirección de un lugar de votación indica que el lugar de votación en sí mismo no es accesible para personas discapacitadas, aunque otras partes del edificio pueden ser accesibles. La Junta Electoral del Estado ha concedido una exención y hay carteles publicados que indican si todo el edificio es accesible o si hay una entrada especial.
Dated at Chicago, Illinois this 4th day of March 2026
Monica Gordon Cook County Clerk Cookcountyclerk.com
Services
AC/HEATING
SERVICES: Summer Special! Furnaces or A/C’s , Clean & check $59.95. Furnaces, A/C’s, Boilers, water heaters, sump pumps, humidifiers, installations, repairs, furnaces installed from $1495.00 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
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
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
For Sale
Four cemetery lots next to each other in Oakland Memory Lanes in Dolton. Price negotiable. Call 407-709-5285
Late 1940s mahogany Lane hope chest. good condition. The lock is removed for safety and legal reasons. 708-8776157
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.
Brand New Michael
Jordan Suede Leather Sporting Boot 1993 Edition. Comes with Bags Sz 10.5, Call for Price. Pair of LaCrosse Steel Toe Hiking Sz 10.5, Brown, Brand New in box, Paid $65, asking $35, Call 312-203-4167 ask for Tony
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
Dunlop Golf Clubs $40; Mandolin Slicer $15 new; 70’ x 1/2” EMT Conduit $20; Back Gammon Game
$12, George Foreman Grill $12; Trailer Tire 4.8 x 12 Mounted $8. 708-8776088
Brand new,in the box, king size adjustable base bed frame, with wireless remote.$250.00 Lansing,IL Roz (312)231-4173
KEROSUN Omni 105 kerosene heater. 23,000 BTU. Excellent condition. No rust or damage. Very little use, $89.00. Leave message 773-225-6908, Homewood. Wanted
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
Small trailer to fit 14 foot fishing boat. Needing repairs ok . Reasonably priced call or text 219-9237716
for room to rent with own bathroom. NW Indiana/Lansing area. Elderly care experience. 40+ Non-drinking/smoking male w/ maintnenance
