A Taste of Theatre Introduces International Short Film Festival in Chicagoland
South Holland & Chicago, IL - April 2026
A Taste of Theatre, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts organization, proudly announces its International Short Indie Film Festival, launching Saturday, April 18, 2026, in the Chicagoland area. This exciting, family-friendly festival will showcase 40–60 independent short films from around the world, all under 15 minutes in length. The festival kicks off on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the Community Room in the South Holland Public Library at 16250 Wausau Ave., South Holland. The celebration continues on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the meeting room at the Hegewisch Public Library, located at 3048 E. 130th St., Chicago.
Led by Festival Directors Victor Gulley, Brian Stanley, and Janice Newman, the festival received over 900 submissions through FilmFreeway before closing
entries on April 1. Selected films represent a diverse range of voices and cultures, with entries from countries including Turkey, India, Trinidad, and the United States. This is A Taste of Theatre’s second film festival, but first internationally.
WASHINGTON — With the April 15 tax deadline fast approaching, the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that there is still time to file their federal income tax return electronically and request direct deposit for any refund due. Taxpayers can avoid interest and some penalties by filing their tax return, and if they owe, paying the full amount due by the deadline. Use IRS.gov for the quickest and easiest information IRS.gov is available 24 hours a day and offers a variety of tools and resources to help taxpayers meet their tax obligations.
Let Us Help You. This page provides tips, tools, and answers to frequently asked tax questions.
IRS Individual Online Account. Taxpayers can securely view tax account information, manage payments, check the status of refunds, and communicate with the IRS. No-cost electronic filing options
Filing electronically reduces errors because tax software performs calculations, flags common mistakes, and prompts users for missing information. Most taxpayers qualify to file electronically at no cost, and when they choose direct deposit, they usually receive their refund within 21 days.
•IRS Free File and Fillable Forms. Qualified taxpayers with income of $89,000 or less in 2025
Audiences will enjoy a wide variety of short films, including cartoons, AI-generated works, narrative films, and documentaries, each ranging from 1 to 15 minutes. The event is designed to be interactive, allowing attendees to vote for their favorite films via QR code and compare their choices with official judges’ selections. The audience participates as film critics by providing feedback, notes, and comments, such as the great movie film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert.
“This festival is about giving independent filmmakers a platform while connecting communities through storytelling,” said the festival team.
In addition to screenings, attendees will gain valuable industry insight through live presentations:
• Victor Gulley will present a session on developing ideas for screenplays.
• Janice Newman will lead a workshop on marketing your film project.
The top three films will receive awards, and their directors will be featured on the A Taste of Theatre radio show on Chicago’s WIIT 88.9 FM, where they will discuss their creative process and future projects.
Admission to both festival dates is free and open to the public. The films are family-friendly and open to all ages. While tickets are not required, attendees are encouraged to reserve a spot via Eventbrite.
A Taste of Theatre continues its mission to support artists and provide accessible arts programming to the community through initiatives like this international festival.
For more information about the festival and organization, visit: Film page: https://filmfreeway.com/ATasteOfTheatre Organization: https://www.atasteoftheatre.org/about
can use IRS Free File to prepare and file their federal tax returns. Taxpayers who are comfortable preparing their own taxes can use IRS Free File Fillable Forms, regardless of income.
•MilTax. Military members and some veterans can use the Department of Defense program MilTax for free return preparation and electronic filing.
• IRS-certified volunteers. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs provide free basic tax preparation to eligible individuals in communities nationwide. Payment options for taxpayers who owe Taxpayers can make payments directly from a checking or savings account using their IRS Individual Online Account. Other electronic payment options include IRS Direct Pay, debit or credit cards, digital wallets, Electronic Federal Tax Payment System, and electronic funds withdrawal.
Taxpayers who cannot pay the full amount owed by the tax deadline should pay what they can now and apply for an online payment plan. Most applicants receive immediate notification of approval or denial, without having to call or write to the IRS.
Unable to file by the April 15 deadline
Individuals who cannot file their tax return by April
15 can request an automatic extension of time to file. An extension to file is not an extension to pay; taxpayers must estimate and pay any taxes owed by the deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Taxpayers can request an extension by:
Making an electronic payment using Direct Pay, a debit card, a credit card, or a digital wallet, and indicating the payment is for an extension.
Filing a Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, using IRS Free File, regardless of income. Mailing Form 4868 if filing an extension on paper. The form must be completed and postmarked by the tax deadline and mailed to the address listed in the instructions.
Taxpayers serving in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty areas, living outside the United States, or affected by certain disaster declarations may be eligible for additional time to file and pay. Taxpayers should check their eligibility before the tax deadline.
More information
Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process
Publication 6103, Get Help with Tax Debt
Both publications provide details on payment options and plans for paying a tax balance over time.
TAKE COURAGE: Move Forward Despite Fear
by Janice R Newman
Courage is something we all need, but many struggle to use it. Courage isn’t just for dramatic moments like war or danger. It’s needed every time we step outside of our comfort zone, try something new, or when life feels difficult. Courage is a mindset. It gives us the strength to face fear, handle pain, take risks, and overcome challenges. Without courage, we can become stuck. With courage, we can rise, move forward, and become stronger in every area of our lives.
One important time to have courage is after failure. Everyone fails at something, and failure can leave us feeling embarrassed and discouraged. However, courage helps us get up and try again. Instead of quitting, we learn from our mistakes and keep going. Think about a child learning to ride a bike. They fall many times, but they keep getting back up until they succeed. We should be the same way. Courage reminds us that failure is not the end, but part of the journey. When we keep trying, we rebuild our confidence.
Courage is needed to overcome self-doubt. Selfdoubt can be one of our biggest enemies, causing us to question our abilities, and stop us from trying. We may think we are not good enough, smart enough, or capable enough. I experienced this when I considered starting the Y? Why Not! cable show and writing a column. I had many fears and negative thoughts. I wondered if I could speak on television, if people would like me, or if I was smart enough. Despite these doubts, courage helped me overcome my fears. If I had allowed self-doubt to control me, I would have missed those opportunities. Courage helps us to believe that we are capable. Use positive self-talk to build courage and change your mindset.
Faith is a powerful source of courage. I’m reminded of my favorite verse in the Bible, Joshua 1:9, “Be
strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” God tells us not to be afraid and encourages us to trust Him. We’re not alone. He’s with us always. When we trust God, He gives us the strength we need to face any challenge. Prayer and faith can calm our fears and build our courage.
Having courage helps us face our fears and act. We may still be afraid, but we proceed ahead despite the fear. You can build courage by taking small, brave steps. Big challenges can feel overwhelming, like climbing a mountain. But when we break them into smaller hills, they become easier to climb. I used this approach when I knocked on doors to collect signatures to run for library trustee by setting a daily goal. Each step helped me grow stronger and more confident. Start small and build from there. Have the courage to act.
Courage allows us to make a difference in the lives of others. It takes boldness to stand up for what is right, speak out against injustice, or help someone in need. Many times, we stay quiet or follow the crowd. However, courage gives us the strength and power to do more. Joining or starting a charitable organization, helping your neighbor, or attending and participating in city meetings can have a lasting impact.
Courage is a powerful tool that helps us move forward even when we feel afraid. It gives us the strength to start, try again after failure, overcome self-doubt, face our fears, and make a difference. With faith and trust in God, along with a willingness to take small steps, we can build courage each day and become stronger, more confident, and prepared to succeed in life. Y? Why Not!
Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ywhynotshow/
Homewood Historical Society to Present Route 66 100th Anniversary Program
Will County author John Weiss will recall the history of “The Mother Road” including the northernmost segment from Chicago to St. Louis
In the Grapes of Wrath, author John Steinbeck was the first to describe Route 66 as “The Mother Road” for enabling some 200,000 people to migrate from Dust Bowl-ravaged communities to California, hoping for a better life. Others have termed it “America’s Main Street.” By either name no roadway is more fabled. It was part of the original U.S. Numbered Highway System in the early 20th Century, officially established on November 11, 1926.
The Homewood Historical Society will recognize this milestone at its next monthly program. John Weiss will present “The 100th Anniversary of the Mother Road” on Wednesday, April 8 at the Homewood Public Library, 17917 S. Dixie Highway, Homewood. A brief business meeting is set for 6:00 p.m. followed by Weiss’ presentation at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. Weiss has written extensively about Route 66,
especially the 436-mile portion in Illinois, from its origin in Chicago near Michigan Ave. and Adams St. to the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Madison IL, where the highway continued over the Mississippi River to Missouri. Weiss’ book, “Traveling the New, Historic Route 66 of Illinois,” details the still accessible portions of the road and its numerous points-of-interest.
U.S. Route 66 originally stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to its terminus at the Santa Monica Pier in California. The road traversed eight states. Its legend grew with the recording of the song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” composed by Bobby Troup and originally recorded by Nat King Cole in 1946. Later, “Route 66” was a popular TV series on CBS from 1960-64, chronicling the road adventures of two young men in a Corvette.
Route 66 ultimately gave way to the new Interstate Highway system starting in the 1950s. The Mother Road was decommissioned in 1985.
Why Do We Pay Property Taxes In Arrears?
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas
One of the most common questions at the office, is, “Why do we collect taxes for the previous year?” Here’s the backstory.
Cook County’s property tax system has changed dramatically since The Treasurer’s Office first opened its doors in 1831. One of the biggest changes was the decision to collect property taxes for the previous year or “in arrears”.
The shift can be traced back to the 1930s, when the country and the most populous county in Illinois were both grappling with the Great Depression Property taxes have been a crucial source of revenue for local governments in Cook County since before Chicago was incorporated in 1837. Tax collections have long bankrolled essential services such as schools, police and fire departments and infrastructure development projects.
After the County Seat was set up at Fort Dearborn and Cook County quickly became an economic hub, the demand for tax revenue to fund expanding government
services increased. This placed a greater burden on local governments to maintain the infrastructure and services needed for the growing Chicagoland population.
At no time was that burden greater than during the Great Depression of the 1930s.
The economic downturn led to widespread unemployment and financial hardship across Cook County. During this period, tax delinquency rates soared, and some property owners began to refuse to pay their taxes. Throughout the 30s, the 5 daily newspapers in Chicago regularly reported on the “tax revolts” that were taking place across the county. The Chicago Tribune called those who failed to pay, “tax shirkers” and their movement the “tax racket.”
The consequences of these “tax revolts” were immediate. Unable to collect taxes, local governments found themselves struggling to fund public services. In response to the crisis, Illinois and Cook County officials and many of their counterparts across America decided to delay property tax collections, effectively placing the county’s property tax payments one year
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.
behind. This decision provided immediate relief to struggling property owners. It also set a precedent for the practice of paying property taxes in arrears which continues to this day. The system of paying taxes in arrears means property tax bills issued in a given year typically reflect assessments from the previous year.
For example, the property tax bills that will be sent out in 2026 are based on assessments made for the 2025 tax year. This admittedly complicated system helps provide stability for both local governments and taxpayers, as it ensures a more predictable billing cycle and revenue stream.
The legacy of the Great Depression and the resulting policy changes have had a lasting impact on Cook County’s property tax system and the Cook County Treasurer’s Office. While many aspects of the system have been modernized, the practice of paying property taxes in arrears remains in place as an important, reliable and fundamental feature of Cook County’s property tax system.
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
SERVICES
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
Heart Smart
RICHARD ZEKVELD
My grandma and I stood side by side before a granite stone. My grandpa’s name was etched into it, along with two dates: 1911-1986. Years earlier, I had stood there with others when his body was planted in that spot.
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
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
My grandma’s name was also etched into that stone. Hers had only one date: 1910-____. I glanced over at her. I saw decades of toil and trial etched into the face of this hard-working immigrant woman. Everything in the scene proclaimed death – my grandma’s aging body, the granite stone, and that granite blank, awaiting its own end date.
But into this scene, my grandma spoke life. She spoke with quiet hope about life after death. She spoke about resurrection. Jesus himself would return to this world. He would raise two gloriously upgraded bodies from this spot. He would return them to their disembodied owners for their new, never-ending adventure in Creation 2.0.
She had also etched that hope in
granite: “Jesus lives. And we live with him.”
My grandma’s hope wasn’t wishful thinking. It was grounded in history. It was grounded in the real Jesus who took her place as a human to be born, die and rise from the grave for her. And for all who believe.
She believed Jesus’ words, spoken after his friend’s funeral: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” (John 11:25-26a). The apostle Paul added, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). Firstfruits are the first bushel of wheat, brought in from the field. The rest is sure to follow! Resurrection hope is grounded in history. Christ is risen indeed!
Richard Zekveld, Pastor Covenant Fellowship Church cfcsh.org
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
Calumet City Public Librar y Address: 660 S Manistee Ave, Calumet City, IL 60409
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
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)
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.
13. *”Fear of Flying” author Jong 14. Unit of electrical resistance
15. Groom, to a bird
16. Brightest star in Cygnus 17. Anonymous John 18. Shadow
19. Covered with scabs
21. *F. Scott Fitzgerald’s mysterious millionaire
23. Nada
24. Circle overhead?
25. Douglas ___
28. Lowest brass
30. Catch in a net
35. Bad day for Caesar
37. Grey, of tea fame
39. Spanish saint
40. Church section
41. *Poe’s talking bird
43. Bucolic poem
44. Chirp, as in bird
46. *”Twilight” series, e.g.
47. “The farmer in the ____”
48. Bonnie and Clyde’s doing
50. Mythical bird, pl.
52. Without professional help, acr.
53. Sound of impact
55. Tint
57. *T. Williams’ fading Southern belle
60. *J.D. Salinger’s young cynic
63. Pilaff or plov
64. ET carrier
66. Unbroken68. Dadaist Max _____
69. Rip off
70. Savory taste sensation
71. Kind of moss
72. Affirmative English rock band
73. Torn down
DOWN
1. *Like Stephen Crane’s Badge of Courage
2. Mars, to the Greeks
3. Brass component
4. Home to largest mammal
5. *John Updike’s “______, Run”
6. *Stephen King novella “The ____,” adapted into “Stand by Me” film
7. Exclamation of surprise
8. The end
9. They’re missing from Venus de Milo
10. He played Sergeant Joe Friday
11. Suggestive of supernatural
12. Piece of evidence
15. Capers or charades
20. Gloomier
22. Brewpub offering
24. *John Updike’s alma mater
25. *Harper Lee’s Atticus _____
26. Gem State
27. Live it up
29. Bleats
31. *Occupation featured in “The Help”
32. Terminated
33. They’re found at checkout
34. *Truman Capote’s party girl
36. Garden starter
38. Toy block
42. Jack Black’s “_____ Libre”
45. Blow out the candle, e.g.
49. Sigma ___ Epsilon
51. S
54. Shylock’s practice
56. Swelling
57. ____ Straits
58. Arm bone
59. Cat-headed Egyptian goddess
60. Gremlins
61. Timeline divisions
62. What one goes by
63. ___ rally
65. *Wicked Witch of the West to Dorothy Gale
67. Jack-in-the-box part
AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
National Autism Awareness Month raises awareness for autism and Asperger’s syndrome during April. Autism is a complex brain disorder that often inhibits a person’s ability to communicate, respond to surroundings, and form relationships with others.
Source: nationaldaycalendar.com
Arnold J. Dekker, age 83, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, March 30, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Judith Dekker, nee Sikma; Children: Brian & Mary Dekker, Bill & Mena Dekker, & Julie Wheeler; Grandchildren: Katelyn Dekker & Carli Dekker.
Arnold was a produce manager for many years, and then self employed for many years in produce. He was a member of First Church PCA as a deacon and an elder. Arnold grew up in Thornton, IL. He was born on October 5, 1942, the son of Cornelius & Nellie (Tenson) Dekker, both deceased. He is also survived by his brother Cornelius Dekker and sister Gloria Holman. As well as many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by sisters Katherine Fitzgerald, Ann (Babe) Meeter, Joan Hendrix, Henrietta Bronkema, & Joellyn Toren.
Visitation Tuesday, April 7, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 7:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN, with Rev. Jacob Gerber officiating. Private interment at Oak Ridge Cemetery –Lansing, IL. Memorial donations may be given to The Bible League (www.bibleleague.org). For further information, please contact 219 322 7300.
Carolyn Jane Stefanelli, of Schererville, Indiana, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on April 1, 2026. Born in Gary, Indiana on July 24, 1937, Carolyn lived a life defined by kindness, devotion, and a quiet strength that touched everyone who knew her.
Carolyn was the beloved wife of the late John Stefanelli, Sr., with whom she shared an unwavering love. Together they built a family that became her greatest joy. She was the cherished mother of John Stefanelli, Jr., Martin Stefanelli, and Frances (Stefanelli) Rush, each of whom carries forward her compassion, resilience, and gentle spirit.
A proud grandmother and great‑grandmother, Carolyn’s legacy continues through her nine grandchildren and eleven great‑grandchildren, all of whom adored her deeply. The loss of Mom/Nanie has left an irreplaceable void in their hearts.
Carolyn truly enjoyed traveling the world especially by cruising the seas. Her adventures took her to 42 countries and numerous US states. Carolyn’s life was a testament to the power of love, family, and generosity of spirit. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those she touched.
A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.
Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219 322 7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com
Real Estate Questions & Answers
Question: We went looking at new construction models and were given several basement options. We are used to just one kind of basement. What’s the difference?
Answer: Remember when a basement was a basement? Where creepy crawlers, high humidity and low light were common. The place where all unwanted things were stored because we didn’t want to dump them. Where shadows appeared ominous and the light bulbs were always burned out. The place where we always worried would seep water during a rain storm. These types are called standard basements. That’s all changed with the new basement designs.
Even if a basement is not finished at the time of the build, an additional lower level gives a homeowner options of expanding their living space in the future. This expanded living space can really bring a home to life.
Walkout basements have lots that are heavily sloped, but allow a home’s lower level to feel very similar to the other levels in the home. With full windows that brighten up the lower level and full access to the backyard, many home owners enjoy a home built on a walkout lot. One disadvantage to
a home built on a walkout lot is that although you can access the backyard from the basement, the main level’s backyard access is raised into the air and requires stairs to access the yard.
Daylight basements provide a balance between walkout and standard basements. Homes that feature a daylight design can be built on a variety of land elevations. With full windows in the basement, home owners can use a lower level with a bit more creativity. Although the added light increases the visibility from a lower level basement, if your home is built on a daylight lot, the deck and backyard access from the main level will require stairs to get from an elevated deck down into the yard. Many home owners say the added light in the lower level and the way daylight windows can make a lower level feel more like other levels in the home, is worth the increased cost and having a raised deck.
E-mail us your Real estate questions at: Cathyah@ aol.com. Thinking of Selling your home? 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
CATHY & JIM HIGGINS
Classifieds
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
2020 FOREST RIVER WILDWOOD XLITE TRAVEL TRAILER MODEL233RBXL. $17,500. Call for details and showing 970-2501145
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
Help
Wanted
South side Adult Day Care has PA, Driver & Nursing positions available at our locations in Crestwood, Glenwood and Richton Park. Please call (708)7552345
For Sale
Four cemetery lots next to each other in Oakland Memory Lanes in Dolton. Price negotiable. Call 407-709-5285
Asking $500 for Tool Box - $500 for Ladder Racks. Tool Box 24” High, 24”w, 60” Long. Ladder Racks Fit Full Size Pick-up Truck. Price is Negotiable, Cash only! Call Carlton 708913-8624
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
Late 1940s mahogany Lane hope chest. good condition. The lock is removed for safety and legal reasons. 708-8776157
Coffee Maker New W/2 Stainless Travel Cups still in box$20.00 Heavy Duty Ladder used once w/multi purpose tray.$20.00 call 708-474-9568
Kenmore refrigerator Black, freezer on top 64” high,34 “wide $175.00. Call 708-439-2330
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. NW Indiana/Lansing area. Elderly care experience. 40+ Non-drinking/smoking male w/ maintnenance skills. Prefer kitchenette & garage space. 708-8988668
