Auto Insurance Reform Bill Clears Illinois House
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ Driving Change campaign – launched to combat unfair and discriminatory auto insurance practices – is now delivering results, as legislation advancing insurance reforms has passed the Illinois House and will return to the Senate for a concurrence vote.
Senate Bill 1486 builds on the momentum generated by the Secretary of State’s statewide advocacy effort, which elevated concerns from Illinois drivers and helped shape a comprehensive proposal to bring greater fairness, transparency and accountability to insurance ratemaking.
“Thanks to the thousands of voices of Illinoisans who shared their stories through our Driving Change campaign, we’re now on the verge of passing meaningful reforms that will hold insurance companies accountable and help make coverage more affordable.”
Senate Bill 1486 introduces several consumer protections, including:
• Requiring insurers to provide at least 60 daysnotice before increasing renewal premiums by more than 10 percent for auto or homeowners policies.
• Expanding Illinois law to explicitly prohibit auto insurance rates that are excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory – defined as rates that do not reflect actual differences in expected losses and expenses.
• Granting the Illinois Department of Insurance greater authority to review rate filings and challenge those deemed unfair, with a clear process and timeline for hearings and resolution.
• Preventing insurers from shifting costs from out-of-state risks, such as natural disasters, to Illinois policyholders.
• Modernizing the National Safety Council’s Defensive Driving Course by aligning the in-person course requirements with the online course requirements.
The legislation, which passed the Illinois House, reflects concerns raised during the Driving Change campaign, which Giannoulias launched to spotlight how insurers use socio-economic data including credit scores, ZIP codes and age to set rates in ways that disproportionately impact seniors, working families and communities of color.
The Driving Change campaign kicked off in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood and included partnerships with organizations such as AARP Illinois.
“In the bill’s final stages, we are taking a meaningful step toward a more transparent and accountable insurance marketplace,” said Leader Robyn Gabel, a sponsor of the bill. “Illinois drivers and homeowners deserve a system that is rooted in fairness, prioritizes actual risk and protects consumers from excessive or unjustified rate increases.”
As part of the campaign, the Secretary of State’s office launched an online portal – www.ilsos.gov/ drivingchange – allowing Illinoisans to share personal experiences with insurance pricing and advocate for legislative reform. Feedback collected through the site and a series of statewide town halls directly informed the policy framework now advancing in Springfield.
The push for reform comes amid rising insurance costs statewide. Illinois auto insurance rates increased 18 percent in 2024. At the same time, Illinois remains one of only two states that does not require prior review of insurance rates, leaving consumers vulnerable to excessive or unfair pricing.
Make Time
by Janice R Newman
Time moves faster than we think. One moment you are in your twenties, full of plans and dreams. Then you blink, and you are in your thirties, forties, and beyond. Before long, after watching your children grow up, your grandchildren begin their own journeys. Life does not slow down for anyone; despite we all want it to. That is why we must learn to make time. There is never a perfect moment to start.
We all have the same 24 hours a day. The difference is how we choose to use them. Many of us spend hours watching television, scrolling or talking on our phones, while procrastinating on the things we say we want to do. If something truly matters to you, you must make time for it. Not later. Not next week. Make Time Now!
The most important area to make time for is relationships. Family and friends are a major part of our lives. It is easy to say we are too busy, but you need to spend time with loved ones. A quick phone call, a shared meal, or simply sitting together and talking can help you grow closer and develop a stronger bond. Don’t put a busy schedule before the people who matter most. Jobs don’t last forever, but relationships can. Make time now, so no regrets later.
We must also make time to get our lives in order. This includes our careers, finances, and personal goals. Many people dream of going back to school, learning a new skill, or starting a business, but they never take the first step. Time is a factor, however, there are numerous options, including online classes, workshops, and self-study through books. Learning takes time, but small steps can lead to big changes. You can read a few pages a day, take a short course, or learn something new each week. Health is another area that we must make time
for. We’re often too tired or too busy to exercise, and our bodies pay the price. Making time to stay active improves our health, energy level, and mood. Joining a gym, going for a walk, or even doing simple exercises at home can make a big difference. When we take care of our bodies, we’re more active and enjoy life better.
Spiritual growth needs time also. ur lives are busy and it’s easy to forget to slow down and reflect. Making time for prayer, reading the Bible, or quiet meditation can bring peace and direction. The Bible teaches in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Time is a gift and we must use it wisely. Wise advice is found throughout the Bible. When we make time for God, we gain wisdom to guide in all aspects of our lives.
Lastly, it’s important to make time for rest and joy. Life is more than work and responsibilities. We need moments to relax, laugh, and enjoy life. Whether it’s traveling, writing, dancing, or simply spending quiet time at home, these moments restore us: physically, mentally, and spiritually. Making time for you is vital and not a waste of time, it’s necessary time.
Unfortunately, there will never be enough time to do everything. That is why we must choose what matters most and prioritize it. Some things, like work, are already set in our schedules. But what we do with the time before and after is up to us. We can plan our time and cut back on distractions so we can focus on what truly matters.
Time is a great gift, but it’s also limited. Once it is gone, we can’t get it back. So don’t wait for the perfect moment. Make time now to love, to grow, to learn, and to live. Y? Why Not!
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Public Warned About New Wave of Fraudulent DMV Penalty Text Scams
Secretary Alexi Giannoulias is warning residents about a new surge in text message scams that falsely claim to be from the Illinois Secretary of State or the DMV. These messages threaten vehicle registration suspension, license penalties or other enforcement actions if an individual does not click a link or pay an alleged fine. The Secretary of State’s office is urging the public to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited messages.
Scammers have recently escalated their tactics, crafting messages that look increasingly official by referencing fabricated regulations, deadlines or penalty commencement dates. Many of the texts cite an upcoming enforcement date and list severe consequences to pressure recipients into acting quickly. These schemes are designed to create panic and trick individuals into surrendering money or personal information.
What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Text:
• Do not click the link.
• Do not reply.
•Do not provide personal or financial information.
• Report the message by forwarding it to scamalert@ilsos.gov.
“These text messages look legitimate and are designed to frighten people into acting quickly before they have time to think,” Giannoulias said. “Our office will never send a text message demanding payment or threatening to suspend someone’s license. If you receive a message like this, remember it’s a scam – plain and simple. Do not click the link and please report the message to scamalert@ilsos.gov.”
The Secretary of State’s office only sends text messages to remind customers about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send texts related to driver’s license status, vehicle registration issues or enforcement actions.
Real Estate Questions & Answers
CATHY & JIM HIGGINS
Question: We’ve signed an agreement of sale with a new home builder, put $40,000 down and are soon going to have the new house ready.
The problem? We have not sold our existing home. We can’t afford both mortgages and do not qualify for both anyway. How to get our deposit back or what we can do? Our new home builder is aware of our situation and said they will be sending an appraiser over to our house to see if they can do anything for us. What do you think they might do? They are being very vague and we are very stressed.
Answer: The goal of a home builder is to sell new homes. Unless there’s a contractual obligation to the contrary, it is not the builder’s job to sell your existing home, buy it or fix it up.
Most likely you have bought a new home using a sale agreement written by attorneys who work for, ta da, the builder. You can bet that every term and clause favors the homebuilder, thus the odds of getting back your deposit are pretty low.
What can you do? Selling the first property is the plain solution, but if that’s not possible then would it make sense to rent it? Would it make okay to stay in the existing home and then rent the new one? The problem with this approach is that you likely applied for and obtained financing as an owner-occupant and not an investor.
Having an attorney review the new home sale agreement to see if there are any grounds for the return of your deposit. For instance, what if you no longer qualify for financing? How about a partial settlement where you give up some -- but not all -- of the deposit?
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. Website: www.Cathyhiggins. com. Personal Real estate Journal: www. Higginshousechat.blogspot.com
An independent newspaper serving the area since 1957.
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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.
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.
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 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
Psalm 131
Heart Smart
JOSH BOOTSMA
1 O LORD, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.
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
ESPIRITU DE DIOS
16400 S. State St., South Holland
708-439-1220 sogfchurch.com
PASTORES Jose & Paula Lopez
9:30 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.
3 O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time forth and forevermore.
Perhaps it’s fitting that one of the shortest Psalms in the Bible is one about contentment.
In verse 1 David leads us in renouncing pride and arrogance. A heart “lifted up” is a heart puffed up, a heart selfinflated to feel bigger, better, and more important than others. And eyes raised “too high” means we’re gazing longingly at a self-serving aspiration somewhere in the clouds rather than turning our eyes to the blessings God has placed in front of us.
David moves from the heart and the
eyes to the hands. He says his occupation isn’t with things too great for him. He’s rejecting the temptation to try to grasp power that belongs only to the Lord. “Marvelous” deeds are the Lord’s to bring about. Perhaps he will do this through us, yes, but it’s not our calling to manufacture such things. We’re not the shot-callers in God’s kingdom work. And then comes the contentment of verse 2: David, and we, must actively calm and quiet our souls — content to let God be God in our lives. The weaned child is a picture of contentment, having matured beyond the constant fussing for his mother’s milk to resting contentedly in his mother’s lap.
The alternative to pride is humility and contentment. Is your heart, are your eyes, elevated to an un-Godly height? Your Father’s invitation is to instead settle into his lap as a contented child. Josh Bootsma - Director of Ministries, Covenant Fellowship Church of South Holland cfcsh.org
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
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/
BEGINNERS COMPUTER CLASSES
Every Monday, from 1-2 pm. 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
Email 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/
Palm Sunday
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
Intestines’ terminal section (pl.)
Comprehensible
Erasable programmable read-only memory (acronym)
Rash-causing shrub (2 wds)
Like saltwater taffy
Vehement accusation
“If only ___ listened ...” (contraction)
Generous bestowal of gifts
Blue
Give off, as light
Bad day for Caesar
Comeback
Black
Sidekick
“I had no ___!”
Auto parts giant
Parachute straps
Causing fear 42. “... or ___!” 43. “My bad!” 45. White, oblong, ecclesiastical vestment
46. Big name in computers 48. Foil (2 wds)
49. Bummed out
Bow
Stallion, once
“Comprende?” 55. Skin art (pl.) 58. ___ Clemente 59. Collective body of bishops
A-list
Lowest
Mechanical routines
Those who live in a place
Bottomless pit
PALM SUNDAY
DOWN
1. Lavishly elegant
2. Fleeting
3. Those to whom money is owed
4. Haul
5. ___ nitrate
6. Cathedral topper
7. Bowed ceremoniously
8. Channel bottoms
9. A Swiss army knife has lots of them
10. Alarm bell
11. Amazon, e.g.
12. Idaho’s capital
13. They go with the flow
14. Barely managed, with “out”
21. Appropriate
24. Vintage auto rear seating compartment
27. Forceful
29. “The Catcher in the ___”
31. Move forward by rowing
33. Quarantine
35. Fattiness
36. Embezzles
37. Skillful performance
39. Absorb, with “up”
41. Ring bearer, maybe
44. Most cheeky
47. Small bell-shaped bomb
48. Even if, briefly
49. Switzerland’s capital
50. City on the Aire
52. Charges
54. Cowboy boot attachment
56. #1 spot
57. “Buona ___” (Italian greeting)
60. “Fantasy Island” prop
62. Court ploy
Palm Sunday is the beginning of Jesus’ final week on earth. It is not an official federal holiday, which means that businesses usually are open and running. However, since Palm Sunday falls on a weekend (the Sunday before Easter), it gives people enough time and space to celebrate it by going to church and indulging in other traditions. Each country has its own share of cultural influences on Palm Sunday’s celebrations. Source: nationaltoday.com
Bruce A. Kamstra, age 68, of Lansing, IL, passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Loving husband of Robin Kamstra, nee Miller. Dear father of Audrey Kamstra and Dawn Solley. Cherished grandfather of Rylee Bandringa. Dear brother of Cynthia Kamstra, Patricia (Dennis) Oostman, and Duane (Dawn) Kamstra. Uncle of several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Matthew and Ellen Kamstra. Private family services will be held. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com
Mary Margaret Battles, nee Stack, age 83, of Dyer, IN, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Beloved wife of the late David Keith Battles. Loving mother of Keith (Lisa) Battles, Elizabeth Margaret Berg, and Scott Battles. Devoted grandmother of Jessica Jendrzejak, Amanda Battles, Kerstin Battles, David Battles Jr., Jason Battles, Brianna Battles, and Courtney Battles. Great-grandmother of Layla Rose Martiniak, Lorelei Ashley Harrison. Dear sister of Peggy (late Mike) Williams. Cherished aunt of several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by two brothers, one sister, and by her parents David and Margaret Stack. Mary was loved by many and will be dearly missed. Memorial visitation Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 7:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home
2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30& Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN.
For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com
Theodore C. Schoustra, age 94, of Crown Point, IN, formerly of Crete, IL, passed away peacefully Friday, March 20, 2026. Loving husband of the late Bernice Schoustra, nee Prince. Devoted father of Daniel (Donna) Schoustra. Preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Rose Schoustra. Ted was a proud U.S. Army Veteran, a shipping clerk with many years of dedicated service, and was truly loved by his family, and will be dearly missed. Private interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – Elwood, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.) Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com
Richard J. Koselke, age 87, of Dyer, IN formerly of Lansing, IL, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Loving husband of Barbara A. Koselke, nee Hasselberger. Devoted father of Karen (Rick) Berendt, Dawn Lavimodiere, Mark (Michele) Koselke, and Brian (Jennifer) Koselke. Cherished grandfather of Lindsey (Ryan), Keaton, Dylan, Maya, Mack, Brianna, Brody and Brecken; greatgrandfather of Riley and Blake. Dear brother of Ruth (late Don) Enloe, the late Theodore (late Mary) Koselke, late Robert (late Eleanor) Bolda, late Dolores (late Robert) Koselke, late Lorraine (Pete) Groot, late Dorothy (Hank) Medendorp, and late Joe (Linda) Koselke. Preceded in death by his parents Theodore and Alberta Koselke. Kind uncle of many nieces and nephews. Rich was a pipefitter with Local 597 with years of dedicated service. He was an avid Blackhawks fan, enjoyed bowling,
fishing, and poker. But the most important thing in Rich’s life was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. “Grandpa K” will be greatly missed by all of his family and his grandchildren. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com
Peter Henry DeYoung, age 82, of St. John, IN went home to his Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Beloved husband of the late Marilyn DeYoung, nee Hoekstra. Loving father of Linda (late Kenneth) Postma, Lori (John) Billstrand, Eileen (John) Bonnema. Cherished grandfather of Justine (Samuel) Vroom, Shane (Rachel) Postma, Alec (Haley) Billstrand, Kaelyn Billstrand, Danielle (Vance) Venhuizen, Jaclene Bonnema, and Kylie (Ryan) Barnes. Great-grandfather of Ellerie Vroom, Judah, Ezra, Marijke, Silas and Zion Venhuizen, Esther, Delilah, and Amos Barnes. Dear brother of Grace (Ronald) Boender, Patricia (Dr. Peter) Tigchelaar, Rev. Ronald (Fran) DeYoung, Rev. Roger (Debbie) DeYoung, and Darryl (Kim) DeYoung. Dear brother-in-law of the late Jeannine (late James) Boer. Kind uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Henry and Pearl DeYoung. Pete was a long-time employee of Park Press in South Holland, IL. He was loved by his family and will be missed.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 4:00 – 7:30 P.M. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN. A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home (The funeral service will be live streamed at https://www.facebook. com/SmitsFH). A private family interment service will take place at Oak Ridge Cemetery –Lansing, IL.
Joann G. Berry, nee Westerhoff, age 82, of Enid, OK, formerly of Thornton, IL went home to her Lord and Savior on Friday, March 20, 2026. Beloved wife of David Berry and the late Roger G. Peterson and the late Richard Lee Powers. Loving mother of Kevin Peterson and Susan Ver Haar. Devoted grandmother of Melody, Samantha, Keely, Jessi, Harley, Dahlia, and Hayden. Dear sister of the late Duane (Carol) Westerhoff, late Harry “Bud” Westerhoff, and the late Allen (Norma) Westerhoff. Kind aunt to several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Johanna Westerhoff. Visitation Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Funeral Service, Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home. Interment to be held at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Cemetery –Elwood, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to Elim Christian Services (elimcs.org). For any additional information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www. SMITSFH.com
How might recent weather swings impact Chicago-area spring blooms?
With March 20 marking the first official day of spring, the tree and plant experts at The Morton Arboretum say the Chicago region is currently on track for an average arrival time of spring blooms, despite weather fluctuations over recent days and weeks.
“As the Chicago region transitions from late winter to early spring, there is very rarely a steady warmup,” said Arboretum Forest Ecology Research Scientist Christy Rollinson, Ph.D. “When we are trying to predict the timing of spring bloom or leaf-out, we look at temperature accumulation as opposed to any individual day. The weather can be volatile in the short term, but it usually evens out into more recognizable patterns, or climate trends, over time.”
One warm or cold day now won’t dramatically speed up or slow down the trajectory of spring blooms, but as time progresses closer to the growing season, such spells will start to bear greater influence on whether plants emerge early or late. Think of it like a diving board, Rollinson said – jumping at the base doesn’t do much, but by the end, when a diver is about to spring off, every little movement sends the board up and down.
“It’s a similar principle. In ecology, we call it thresholds,” she said. “As you get closer to that threshold, the impacts of daily weather events on the timing of spring blooms and leaf-out become more amplified.”
The same goes for rain and snowfall – steady precipitation over a span of time affords more stability than one single event, especially one dramatic downpour. While the Chicago region has remained clear of current drought conditions affecting much of the country, the U.S. Drought Monitor lists most of central Illinois under moderate to severe drought as of late last week. New data is published each Thursday.
“The rain is good for plants at the moment, as will be the snowmelt,” Rollinson said. “But as we move forward in the growing season, we’re going to want to have moist soils, not sopping wet soils, which tend to spread disease.”
Based on data from years past, areas experiencing drought can expect trees to leaf out more slowly with sparser canopies. Once more rain falls later in the season, trees can often take full advantage of it, according to Rollinson.
“What happens in the spring can prime things for the rest of the growing season, but it doesn’t necessarily define it,” she said.
Spring showstoppers
What is normal bloom timing? Historical records indicate that, on average, peak spring blooms in the Chicago region can be expected to occur around midApril to May, according to Arboretum experts. This is when woodland wildflowers, daffodils and the majority of flowering shrubs often offer their best show, and redbud, crabapple and magnolia trees become big attractions at the Arboretum.
The Arboretum anticipates resuming its annual Spring Bloom Report on the mortonarb.org website in the coming days, at which point viewers can check back for weekly updates on the spring flowering underway on its grounds.
Protecting plants during spring weather swings
At this stage of the season, Rollinson assures homeowners and gardeners that they don’t have to worry about temperature drops and snowfall just yet for most plants. In fact, the latest snow cover acted as a layer of protection for plants against the sharp cooldown. The first step is to simply check which trees and plants have begun budding and sprouting.
“In general, things that leaf out or emerge early in the season evolutionarily know they do so at a risk, and so they tend to be pretty well adapted to cold spells,” she said. “There’s a reason snowdrops are called snowdrops—they have adapted so that they can freeze and not die.”
If plants that normally flower toward late March or April show activity early, it is recommended to insulate them. The Arboretum’s Plant Clinic advises spreading leaves or mulch over any green sprouts in the garden. Before an anticipated frost, cover small trees and shrubs, to the ground, with sheets or lightweight tarps for protection, then remove them in the morning once the worst of the cold subsides. Signs of freeze damage in plants include sudden discolored tissue that appears water-soaked and withers within a short time.
For more information, visit the Arboretum’s webpage about protecting plants from cold spells.
The Plant Clinic is available to provide free tree and plant care advice Monday through Friday by phone at 630-719-2424 or walk-ins at the Arboretum (with paid admission) from noon to 4 p.m., or by email at plantclinic@mortonarb.org.
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
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
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
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
Nostalgia Hollywood electric popcorn machine, like new $25.00..Serta queen mattress /box spring, flat top, excellent, $100.00 cash 708-645-4245
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
Kenmore refrigerator Black, freezer on top 64” high,34 “wide $175.00. Call 708-439-2330
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
Late 1940s mahogany Lane hope chest. good condition. The lock is removed for safety and legal reasons. 708-8776157
Wanted
Small trailer to fit 14 foot fishing boat. Needing repairs ok . Reasonably priced call or text 219-9237716
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
Looking for room to rent with own bathroom.