Wednesday • March 11, 2026
Local Art Installation Depicts African American HistoryGroup Seeks National Recognition
On the final day of Black History Month, Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller stood along the bank of the Little Calumet River at Beaubien Woods near Riverdale, just off Interstate 94, the Bishop Ford Expressway. Though she had visited the forest preserve many times in past Februarys, this year’s gathering carried a renewed sense of purpose.
Waiting to greet her were retired professor Larry McClellan and Tom Shepherd, founders and board members of the Midwest Underground Railroad Network (formerly the Little Calumet River Underground Railroad Project). Their mission was twofold: to honor Black History Month and to urge Cook County to support a new effort to recognize an art installation at Beaubien Woods as a significant Underground Railroad site.
The forest preserve property borders what was once the Jan and Aagje Ton Farm — a documented “safe house” on the Underground Railroad. In 2019, after years of detailed research and a rigorous application authored by McClellan, the Ton Farm was added to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom registry, a program of the National Park Service. The designation formally recognized the farm’s role in assisting freedom seekers escaping slavery in the mid19th century as they traveled toward Chicago and, ultimately, Canada.
Now, McClellan, Shepherd, Rodney Harrington and fellow applicant and sculptor Christine Perri are
advocating for similar recognition of “Prairie Boat,” a large sculptural installation designed by Perri that serves as both gathering space and memorial. The artwork features depictions honoring Native American and African American history, symbolizing the journeys of freedom seekers who once traversed the nearby river corridor. The installation that was commissioned by the Forest Preserves and built in 2023 qualifies as an important historic commemorative site that could be included on the national registry.
Supporters believe designating Prairie Boat as a commemorative site on the Network to Freedom would elevate the historical significance of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, expand heritage tourism, and provide a central starting point for educational tours conducted in partnership with the preserves.
In a formal letter delivered to Commissioner Miller also addressed to Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, the Midwest Underground Railroad Network requested that she submit their proposal to have Beaubien Woods approved as a host site for Network to Freedom designation for the Prairie Boat. Such recognition would require Cook County’s agreement to serve as the official land owner of the commemorative site.
The group also requested an opportunity to present their case to Cook County Board Pres. Toni Preckwinkle and Forest Preserves Superintendent Adam Bianchi, emphasizing that the application to the National Park Service is complete and available for review.
As the wind moved across the Little Calumet River and through the winter trees, the moment underscored a broader message: that the landscape itself still holds stories of courage, refuge, and the enduring pursuit of freedom — stories local historians hope will soon receive national recognition.
Prepare for Rising Prices
By Janice Newman
The US-Israel–Iran conflict is now entering its second week of war, with numerous bombings that are beginning to adversely affect commerce in the Middle East and around the world. Several oil refinery production facilities in Iran have reportedly been damaged or destroyed by military attacks. In addition, major international maritime shipping routes have either been blocked or have become too dangerous for vessels to navigate in order to export oil from the region. Because of this, nearby countries can’t transport their oil out. Those countries oil storage facilities will reach capacity and will force a shutdown in production because they don’t have the storage space.
Globally, we are now starting to see the effects through higher oil and gasoline prices. Although oil is typically purchased several months in advance, the increases seen at the gas pumps are often a response to anticipated higher oil prices in the near future. As of 03/09/2026, Brent Crude oil future is at approximately $110 a barrel, which has not been this high since July 2022. There is limited talk about G7 nations tapping into some of the emergency oil reserves to control prices. Oil is used for approximately 90% of worldwide energy related to transportation, heating, and other products. The cost will trickle down to other products
as shipping transportation costs will go up. Petroleum is also used in a wide variety of everyday items many people do not often think about, such as deodorant, medical equipment like MRI machines, eyeglasses, plastics, and many other common products. However, the petroleum product most visible to consumers is gasoline for our vehicles.
For many consumers, household budgets are already stretched to their limits. Some Illinois residents will cross the border into Indiana or travel to different counties in search of cheaper gas prices, only to discover that prices are often similar.
For Chicago-area drivers, another factor will soon affect the price at the pump. In about 60 days, gas stations will begin dispensing the special summer-blend gasoline required in the Chicago region. This specially formulated fuel is designed to reduce air pollution but typically costs more per gallon than gasoline sold in most other parts of the country. As a result, it may place yet another strain on travel budgets during the busy summer driving season.
However, if we make a few minor changes in our daily habits, we can save money at the pump.
1. Plan your errands around other trips. This helps you use less gas. Stop at the store on the way home from work. Schedule doctor’s appointments on the same day
or after work if possible. Make a grocery list so you don’t forget an item and have to make a second trip.
2. If you have two vehicles, drive the one with the best gas mileage. We love our large SUVs for their extra room and comfort, but filling those large tanks too often can quickly empty your wallet.
3. Buy gas at shopping clubs or discount retailers. Stores such as Sam’s Club, Costco, Walmart, or Meijer often offer lower gas prices than many traditional stations.
4. Use a gas app to save a few extra cents per gallon. My household has gas apps on all our phones. My husband and I were thrilled when we received a bonus of 40¢ off per gallon using the Citgo app—and our tank happened to be empty at just the right time!
5. Yes, the dreaded carpool. If possible, share a ride and split the cost of gas. Ride with a coworker and get to know them. Just remember to be courteous, respectful, and on time.
With no clear end to the conflict in sight, it is wise to adjust some of our daily habits so rising fuel costs do not strain our budgets. At the same time, we should remain grateful that the conflict is not taking place in our own backyard. Y? Why Not!
Photos of Prairie Boat, compliments of Christine Perri
Photo, Left to right: Larry McClellan, Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller, Tom Shepherd. (Photo by Tom Shepherd)
Real Estate Questions & Answers
CATHY & JIM HIGGINS
Question: My Realtor placed my offer on a house with a pre-approval and 20 percent down. The selling agent called my loan officer to ask for my FICO score, how much money I have in the bank and other personal questions so she can run the info with her seller. My loan officer did not give any info except that I am a really good, serious buyer with A+ credit. Was the listing agent out of bounds with such questions?
Answer: There’s a complexity within your question that needs to be addressed.
The listing agent wants to assure that any wouldbe purchaser is financially qualified to buy the property. The reason is that the owner (and the agent) do not want the property tied up for weeks with a buyer who is ultimately unable to close. Such a delay might mean the loss of a qualified buyer. Also, there may be competing offers for the property so the owner will want to consider the financial strength of the bidders since it does no good to accept a high offer from someone who cannot complete the sale.
In the usual case the buyer’s agent provides a financial qualification statement or a letter from a lender. Neither is an absolute guarantee of financing,
but both are useful.
Even though this personal information is considered private, the seller of the transaction needs to know that their buyer has an excellent chance to close the deal. Sellers also have packing to do, movers to schedule, and a new home to buy. Remember, too many Real estate deals fall apart due to a poor prequalification of the buyer, or information the buyer failed to disclose to their lender at the time of prequalification.
What the lender told the listing Broker in your case, should be enough information for a seller to feel they have a well-qualified buyer. What the lender could also have said is that his judgment was based on your ability to put down 20 percent plus his review of your A+ credit report. In other words, the lender cannot reveal the contents of the credit report but he can at least say that his analysis is not based on fantasy.
E-mail us your Real estate questions at: Cathyah@aol.com. Thinking of Selling? Call Cathy & Jim Higgins: Ind: 219-577-5905 Ill: 708828-3304.Licensed Broker/Realtors in Indiana & Illinois. McColly Real Estate. Website: www. Cathyhiggins.com
Follow Them
by Janice R
When we are given good instructions, wise advice, or clear directions, we should use good judgment and follow them. Many times, we know what the right advice is, yet we still ignore it. For example, your father tells you to check the oil in your car, and we mumble back yeah, yeah, yeah. Then to our surprise, we locked up the engine. It reminds me of the line in the song “Ironic” by Alanis Morissette: “It’s like good advice that you just didn’t take.” Why do we sometimes ignore helpful guidance, even when we know it is wise?
Following sound advice can help protect us, guide us, and move us closer to our goals. Listening and following good instructions can help us to stay healthy, make wise choices, and avoid serious problems. However, it is also important to know how to recognize good advice and where it’s coming from. We often seek advice in areas of our health, finances, and relationships.
When it comes to our health, we want the best advice and instructions available to care for our bodies. Doctors give us instructions about medicines, diets, and exercises that are meant to help us heal or stay well. The medicine bottle gives instructions on times to take it, potential side effects, and dosage, but do we always follow them? “NO!” Ignoring dosage, not taking, or stopping medication can be harmful without sound advice or education. The same is true when a doctor tells someone with diabetes to reduce sugar and carbs, exercise more, or lose weight. Those instructions should be followed to protect your longterm health.
We seek financial advice as our money choices can affect our future. Spending on credit cards with high interest rates, overpaying for a car or home, or investing unwisely can cause thousands of wasted dollars. When you want to invest money, buy a house or car, it is wise to listen to people with experience and success in that field. A financial advisor who has a record of helping clients build savings may provide helpful guidance. It would not be wise to take advice from a friend with a history of bad decisions. When seeking financial wisdom, it’s important to examine the person’s experience,
education, and track record.
Relationship advice seems too readily available. You can get unsolicited advice from everyone. We should seek guidance from parents, grandparents, pastors, counselors, or mentors. They have years of life experience and wisdom to share. For example, if you’re thinking of marriage, you may want instructions on how to get along, what are common stumbling blocks, or what to expect, so seek someone who’s experienced in a successful, long-term marriage. Experience has practical wisdom that’s not learned from a book.
How do you recognize good advice and instructions?
1. Check the source. Ask yourself: Does this person have the education or experience needed to guide me? Have they had success in this situation? Do their actions match their words? This helps to determine if they are trustworthy.
2. Do your own research. Educate yourself to understand the topic you are dealing with. Learn as much as you can on the topic which will help you ask better questions and recognize good guidance.
3. Be humble and willing to accept someone’s advice and instructions. Sometimes others know more than we do, so we should be willing to listen and learn.
4. Seek God’s wisdom. Prayer can bring clarity and understanding when facing decisions and challenges. The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 1:7, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despite wisdom and instruction.” True wisdom begins with respecting and having a willingness to accept God’s instruction. The Bible provides sound advice and instructions on most topics to support, guide, and protect us. It helps us avoid mistakes.
When wise advice and instructions are given, after careful thought, research, and prayer: recognize them, respect them, and then follow them. By doing so, it can keep you safe and successful. Y? Why Not! Please like and follow us on Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/ywhynotshow
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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.
Newman Y? WHY NOT!
LOCAL CHURCHES
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
SUNDAY
Church School 9:15 a.m.
Worship Services 10:30 a.m.
WEDNESDAY Bible Study…… 7:00 p.m.
COVENANT UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 1130 East 154th St., South Holland
708-333-5955
www.covucc.org
PASTOR REV. DR. PATRICK L. DAYMOND WORSHIP SERVICES
Sunday Worship 7:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Wed. Bible Study Noon
FIRST CHURCH (PCA)
3134 Ridge Rd, Lansing
708-474-9610
www.firstchurchpca.org
Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.
Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Evening Worship 5:30 p.m.
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
JESUS LIGHTHOUSE OF LOVE INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES 19058 Burnham Ave, Lansing 312-206-1833 facebook.com/JLOLMinistries
PASTOR EL CID ZOLLICOFFER
PASTOR SHONNI ZOLLICOFFER WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday........................................... 11:00 a.m.
“Once Upon A Time There Was A Garden…”
Homewood Historical Society Takes A Look At The Early Years Of It’s Museum Garden
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 Sunday 9:30
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
The garden outside the Homewood Historical Society’s Dorband-Howe House Museum has always been a head-turner. Recently, the current garden has won numerous accolades, including two consecutive community beautification awards. Had such awards been made decades ago, there’s little doubt the garden as it appeared then would have been similarly recognized.
There will be a rare opportunity to see how the garden appeared long ago. Elaine Egdorf, a co-founder, past president and current director of the Homewood Historical Society (HHS) will present a comprehensive photographic tour of the original garden’s incredible variety of plant life. The “Once Upon a Time, there was a Garden” presentation will take place on Wednesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Homewood Public Library, 17917 S. Dixie Highway. A brief business meeting of the HHS will start at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free and complimentary light refreshments will be provided.
Egdorf will share dozens of vintage photographs, all in vivid color. “This is
an ideal way to forget about this winter and think about the promise of Spring just around the corner,” Egdorf said. All that’s necessary to enjoy the present garden is to stop-by the museum at 2305 W. 183rd St. in Homewood. However, the experience is enhanced by visiting in the late Spring or Summer when the flowers, plants and vegetables are in their seasonal splendor, alongside outdoor museum artifacts. For the past two years, the HHS property has been recognized by the Village of Homewood with a Blue Ribbon Beautification Award.
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
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.
March Quilting Meeting
March 17, 2026 at 6:30 pm at
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)
Redeemer Lutheran Church 651 E. 166th Street, South Holland, IL
We will have Meghan from Bee Quiltinq demonstrating how to make a collage quilt. Please join us. Hosted by Heritage Quilters Guild of South Suburbia www.heritagequilts.org email: heritagequilters@gmail.com
Homewood Public Librar y
Address: 17917 Dixie Hwy, Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: (708) 798-0121
Email: hplhelp@homewoodlibrary.org
Website: www.homewoodlibrary.org/
BEGINNERS COMPUTER CLASSES
Every Monday, from 1-2 pm.
BOARD GAMES
March 12 | 6:30pm | Ages 18+
TWEEN TIME
March 13 | 4:30pm | Grades 4-6
IMPROV CLASS WITH SERTOMA STAR SERVICES
March 20 | 10am | Ages 18+
THE KNIT WITS
March 25 | 6pm | Grades 3-6
GARDEN CLUB: SEED SWAP
March 26 | 7pm | Ages 18+
SPRING BREAK GAMING
March 31 | 1pm | Ages 8-12
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: 708-527-3150
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/
Photos provided by Homewood Historical Society
ACROSS
Boredom
Canary or parrot, for exp.
Dike
San Antonio fort
N N N N
Rest on one’s knees
Reddish brown
Permits
Jail room
Stairs
City in south central Ukraine
Present (at a show)
Without companionship
In a little while (archaic)
Object of worship
Pepper_____ or spear_____
The Red Planet 70. A depression on a surface 71. Fertile area in a desert
ST. PATRICKS DAY
DOWN
1. Prefix indicating half
Test 3. Hindu princess
Spot
Maroon
Branchlet
Margarine
Academic head
Monument 10. Dislike for delays
11. Daughter of a sibling
12. Long-necked wading bird
13. A place for wives and concubines
21. East Asian unit of weight
25. Pout
26. Loose sleeveless cloaks
27. Annoy
28. Poop
29. Entrance fees
30. Sea eagles
31. Where birds live
34. Sharp high-pitched cry
36. V V V V
37. Snake-like fishes
38. Singer Fitzgerald
40. Solemn promise
45. Bottom of one’s shoe
48. What you blink with
50. Generator
51. Refined woman
52. Sporting venue
53. Hearsay
54. Capelin
57. Cypher
58. “Once ____ a time”
59. An ancient city in Asia Minor
60. Pros and ____
61. Against
62. Not more
St. Patrick’s Day kicks off a worldwide celebration also known as the Feast of St. Patrick. On March 17th, many will wear green in honor of the Irish and decorate with shamrocks. According to lore, the wearing of the green tradition dates back to a story written about St. Patrick in 1726. St. Patrick (c. AD 385–461) used the shamrock to illustrate the Holy Trinity and worn green clothing. And while the story is unlikely to be true, many will revel in the Irish heritage and eat traditional Irish fare, too.
Source: nationaldaycalendar.com
John Bryan Theodore of Schererville, IN passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026. Over the years, Bryan faced multiple serious health challenges and persevered through them with faith, courage and resolve. It was said by those who knew him that he had more lives than most cats.
Bryan was born in Hammond, Indiana on May 19, 1959 to George Peter and Nancy Carole Theodore (Golden). Upon graduating from Morton Senior High School in 1977, he enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate from 1977 to 1980. After honorable discharge from the Navy, Bryan held sales positions for several tech companies before owning and managing his own IT company in downtown Chicago, ProITCo. Bryan enjoyed cooking and had a keen liking for giardiniera, sardines, spicy foods and Peanut M&M’s. He lovingly tended to his vegetable gardens and was an avid fisherman with a deep love for aquatic life. Bryan was a very creative person who was gifted in singing, woodworking, drawing, cooking and playing guitar. Bryan will be deeply missed by family members and lifelong friends who appreciated his gentle nature and unflagging sense of humor.
Bryan is survived by daughter Kaitlyn Doan (Justin), son George Theodore (Maria), stepsons Jay August and Jess August (Kelly), stepdaughter Kasey Wade (Robert Biegun), past wife and longtime friend Brenda Theodore, grandchildren Jace, Raegan and Ezra Doan and Nora August, sister Tamera Theodore (Beth Ellis), brothers George Brady Theodore (Loree) and Michael Brent Theodore (Misty), sister-in-law Bonnie O’Connor (Tim) and brother-in-law William Van Kley (Colleen). He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Carole Theodore.
A memorial visitation will be on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. with a Celebration of Life at 6:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Private interment will be on Thursday, March 5, 2026
at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery –Elwood, IL. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit the online guestbook and obituary at www.SMITSFH.com.
Marian D. Jansma, nee DeGraff, of Chicago Heights, IL, went home to her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, March 03, 2026. Beloved wife of the late David J. Jansma Sr. Loving mother of Dawn (Ed) Livingston, Patricia (Gary) VonAlven, Jill (David) Callahan, and David (Denise) Jansma Jr. Grandmother of Faith (Brian) Pelke, Brandon (Vanesa) Vanderhye, Justin (Crystal) VonAlven, Nick (Nicole) VonAlven, Stephanie (John) Kreykes, Christie (Josh) Eenigenburg, Aaron Jansma, Ryan (Nicole) Jansma, Chad (Kate) Jansma, Matt (Lauren) Jansma, and Carrie (Matt) Reece. Great-grandmother of Christian, Hope, Alexis, Katie, Blake, Jeremy, Courtney, Caleb, Claire, Aleigha, Calvin, Anna, Brody, Finn, Wells, Colbie, Levi, Liam, Luca, Emelia, Sloane, Cruz, Tripp, and baby girl Reece in August. Greatgreat-grandmother of Blakely and Brooklyn. Dear sister of David (Judy) DeGraff and the late Ted (Lucy) DeGraff. Preceded in death by her parents Theodore and Anna DeGraff.
Private family funeral services will be held Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Private interment Oak Ridge Cemetery – Lansing, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to William J. Riley House (www. hospicecalumet.org). For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit the online guestbook and obituary at www.SMITSFH.com.
LaVerne Van Dyk DeYoung, nee Swets, age 97, formerly of South Holland, IL, went home to her Lord and Savior on Friday, March 6, 2026.
Beloved wife of the late Art Van Dyk and the late John DeYoung. Loving mother of Beverly (Kurt) Nelson, Don (Gerry) Van Dyk, Deb (Scott) Mels, and the late Brent (Linda) Van Dyk. Cherished grandmother of Sheri (Travis) Ferris, Sheila (Clint) Sanders, Eric (Melissa) Nelson, Karl (Jenna) Nelson, Jon (Allison) Van Dyk, Jessica (Jeff) Vander Naald, Jenna (Jesse) Van Maanen, Justine (Ryan) Busscher, Josh (Alix) Van Dyk, Jill (Noah) Shigley, Tracy (Steve) Voss, Ken (Autumn) Mels, Rick (Stacey) Mels, Tammy (Josh) Copeland, Brandon (Meg) Van Dyk, Corey (Chelsea) Van Dyk, Bonnie (Logan) Van Proyen. Greatgrandmother of 40. Dear sister of the late John (late Gertrude) Swets, late Clarence (late Jo) Swets, late Gertrude (late Ralph) Schaap, late Carrie (late John) DeVries, Evelyn (late Jay) Groen, Henrietta (Butch) Dekker, and Joy (Don) VanderKooi. Kind aunt of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents Tunis and Josie Swets. Visitation Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Interment Oak Ridge Cemetery— Lansing, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a christian school of your choice.
For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit the online guestbook and obituary at www.SMITSFH.com
Michael G. “Mikey” Michalski Jr., age 46, of Highland, IN, suddenly, passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Loving and longtime partner of Sarah Dooley. Devoted father of Isabella. Beloved son of Michael and Vivian Michalski; son-in-law of Richard and Karen Dooley. Dearest brother of Robert (Jennifer) Gates, Jennifer (Eric) Dross, Carrie (Dan) Smith, and Kevin (Melissa) Michalski; brother-inlaw of Philip (Pamela) Dooley. Kind uncle of Nathan, Maurizio Jr., Erica, Dominick, Emily, Dakota, Alivia, Johnathan, and Abigail; great-uncle of Emilio. Dear nephew of several cherished aunts, uncles,
and cousins. Mikey was an avid Bears, Blackhawk, and White Sox fan, he enjoyed bowling, and family trips to Disney. Mikey was loved and adored by his family, and many friends, and will be truly missed.
Visitation Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.) Dyer, IN. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to GoFundMe: https:// gofund.me/796434edb For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www. SMITSFH.com
William J. Conroy, age 85, of Schererville, IN formerly of Chicago Heights, IL, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Loving husband of the late Patricia A. Conroy, nee Scianna. Devoted father of William J. Conroy Jr., Timothy (Julie) Conroy, James (Fran) Conroy, Diane (Timothy) Schweinhagen, and Catherine Conroy. Proud grandfather of 8; great-grandfather of 7. Dear brother of Thomas (Mary) Conroy, Kathleen Conroy, and John (Jan) Conroy. Kind uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Eleanor Conroy. Bill was loved by his family, and friends, and will be dearly missed.
Visitation Monday, March 9, 2026 from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. with a wake service to be held at 5:00 p.m.. Prayer service Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 9:45 a.m. from Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30&Pleasant Springs Ln.) Dyer, IN, to St. Michael the Archangel Church One W. Wilhelm St. Schererville, IN 46375 for a 10:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial with Rev. Robert Ross officiating. Interment St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery - Schererville, IN. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN, appreciated. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit the online guestbook and obituary at www.SMITSFH.com
A Hearty Stew to Celebrate St. Pat’s
(Feature Impact) Green beer and decor may get all the attention, but for hosts looking to wow their St. Patrick’s Day guests or astound their loved ones, a traditional Irish recipe can become an annual tradition. Celebrate the luck o’ the Irish with this St. Patrick’s Day Stew, a hearty, beefy meal loaded with chuck stew meat, potatoes, carrots, onions and, of course, stout beer.
To find more recipes that put tradition center stage, visit Culinary.net.
St. Patrick’s Day Stew
Recipe adapted from Simply Recipes
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Servings: 6
1 1/4 pounds marbled chuck beef stew meat, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
1 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste, divided 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
6 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups beef stock
2 cups water
1 cup extra stout beer
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, chopped
4 carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Sprinkle beef chunks with 1 teaspoon salt. In large pot over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Pat beef dry with paper towels and add to pot, working in batches to avoid crowding pot. Cook until browned on one side then flip and brown. Add garlic cloves to pot with beef and saute 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add beef stock, water, beer, wine, tomato paste, sugar, thyme, Worcestershire sauce and bay leaves. Stir. Bring mixture to simmer then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 1 hour, stirring occasionally. In separate pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and carrots; saute until golden, about 15 minutes.
After beef mixture simmers 1 hour, add onions, carrots and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Simmer uncovered until beef and vegetables are tender, about 40 minutes. Discard bay leaves and spoon excess fat.
Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
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