Sep 15, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
Giannoulias Awards Over $28 Million in Library and Literacy Grants
Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias awarded $28.3 million for library services and literacy programs throughout the state.
The grants include awards to the regional libraries systems across the state to enhance online catalogues at local libraries, support day-to-day operations, expand interlibrary loan programs and to radio information services that equip vision-impaired individuals with narrations of newspaper content. The literacy grants are designed to promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills.
“Providing our libraries – the cornerstones of our communities – with the support necessary to expand their services and programs is vital to ensuring that all Illinoisans are empowered to learn, grow and explore, regardless of where they live, their physical abilities, financial situation or educational background,” Giannoulias said. “At the same time, raising literacy rates across the state opens doors for personal development and contributes to the strength and advancement of our communities.”
While libraries in other states face attempts to significantly decrease budgets, reduce hours and services, and restrict materials, Illinois libraries have received more than $155 million in grant funds to expand library services under Giannoulias’ administration during the past two and a half years.
The most recent grant funding includes:
• More than $18 million allocated to library systems across the state. Libraries systems use this funding to support day-to-day operations and assure resource sharing occurs between public, school, academic and special libraries, which enables library patrons across Illinois to request materials from any participating library free-of-charge. Last fiscal year, more than 11 million items were shared between libraries throughout the state.
• More than $6.7 million in literacy grants to over 70 organizations across the state that support adult, family and workplace literacy programs awarded to volunteer organizations, community colleges and school districts, and not-for-profit entities.
• More than $2.6 million to expand online catalogues and interlibrary resource sharing between public, school, academic, and special libraries, providing more variety in the types of resources Illinoisans can access.
• More than $450,000 to provide narration of local newspaper content to individuals who cannot read standard print material due to visibility challenges or other accessibility needs.
• Nearly $50,000 to support veteran’s home libraries that provide books, magazines, computers and internet access to veterans in long-term care and their spouses.
The Secretary of State’s office awarded grants for library and literacy programs using combined state funds and federal Library Services and Technology Act funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Mrvan Announces GLRI Grant for Gibson Woods in Hammond SEPTEMBER
Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan announced a federal grant award for Gibson Woods in Hammond through the Lake County Parks and Recreation under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) program.
Specifically, Lake County Parks & Recreation will receive $712,412 to install improved public access features at the Gibson Woods Nature Preserve in Hammond. According to the GLRI, this program aims to accelerate efforts to protect and restore the Great Lakes waterway system, which is the largest system of freshwater in the world.
Congressman Mrvan stated, “I grew up playing in Gibson Woods, and am proud that Northwest Indiana is home to such incredible environmental wonders for
residents and visitors to enjoy. I applaud all of the leaders with Lake County Parks and Recreation for this initiative to enhance and improve access to the natural treasures of Gibson Woods in Hammond.”
Craig Zandstra, the Superintendent of Planning & Natural Resources of Lake County Parks & Recreation, stated, “We’re honored to receive this support for Gibson Woods Nature Preserve. These improvements will help us continue to protect our natural resources while making the preserve more accessible and welcoming to the public. As we continue to invest in these updates, we’re ensuring Gibson Woods remains a place where both residents and visitors can learn, explore, and connect with nature for generations to come.”
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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.
Real Estate Questions & Answers
CATHY & JIM HIGGINS
Question: We are thinking about buying a new home. What are the first steps?
Answer: You might think that finding a realtor or figuring out what type of house you should buy would be your first step, but looking into home mortgages is actually the best place to begin the home buying process.
Shop smartly and seek out the best rates. When shopping around for a mortgage, do it all in the same week. It will only ding your credit once, instead of every time! And, if you want to get the best deals for whichever loan product you choose, use a broker instead of a bank. Brokers, however, are independent owners who have access to wholesale interest rates and many different investors. They have the ability to ‘shop’ for the best deal for you through many different avenues, which could lead to significant savings.
Get prequalified, or even better, get pre-approved—which one step beyond getting pre-qualified—is a good idea. With new technology, it‘s easier than ever before to request both pre-qualification (an estimate of what you can afford) and pre-approval (you’re approved for a specific loan amount pending finding a property). Pre-approval is a smart way to get a head start and be a more
appealing buyer, by showing them you have financing already in place. Find a Realtor (like us) with Integrity, proactive communication, attention to detail and experience with problem solving abilities. You will be given homes that match your specifications and would receive notices of any NEW homes that come on the market. You would only be given homes that match what you are looking for in terms of price, location and amenities. And, all of your questions would be answered.
When buying a home, it is important to understand how your day-to-day routine will change. For example, consider how buying a new house affects the distance and cost of your commute, for example. If you are moving further from work, family and friends, you’ll need to adjust your monthly budget to cover those expenses—and carve out more time travel, too.
E-mail us your Real Estate questions at Cathyah@aol.com.Thinkingofsellingyour home? Call Cathy & Jim Higgins, Licensed Broker/Realtors in Indiana & Illinois. IN: 219-865-4361 IL: 708-8283304. McColly Real Estate. Website: www.Cathyhiggins.com. Personal Real Estate Journal: www.Higginshousechat. blogspot.com
Homewood Self Storage located at 501 Ridge Rd, Homewood, IL 60430 (773-974-8797) intends to hold an auction of the goods stored in the following unit in default for non-payment of rent: Unit 31 - Jada Gordon; Unit 100 - Christopher Smith; Unit 62 - Matthew A. Sandler; Unit 152 - Steven Manns Sr; Unit 126 - Jennifer D. Buchanan. Auctions will be conducted online on www.bid13.com and will conclude at 9AM CST on October 1, 2025.
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
Calumet City Public Librar y
Address: 660 S Manistee Ave, Calumet City, IL 60409
Phone: (708) 862-6220
Email: info@calumetcitypl.org
Website: http://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
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS
DOLTON PUBLIC LIBRARY: BOOKED BY SELF CARE EVENT: Friday, September 19, 2025, from 12 pm - 3 pm. It's so important to prioritize our self-care these days. Register for our Self-Care event and find informative and fun ways to Take Care of You! Our vendor will address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of Self-Care.
708-849-2385 x 3 to register.
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.
EVERY MONDAY: LINE DANCING WITH DAWN THE DANCING DEVA: From 1-2 pm. Call 708-849-2385 ext 3 to register.
EVERY WEDNESDAY: LINE DANCING WITH DAWN THE DANCING DIVA: BECAUSE IT WAS SO GOOD THEY ASKED FOR TWO! From 3-4 pm. Call to register at 708-849-2385 ext 4
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
FREE online Line Dancing with Dawn the Diva, Tuesdays at 6:30pm 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/
BONE HEALTH
Sept. 22 | 6:30 PM | Ages 18+
FALL COSTUME SWAP Sept. 27 | 10am - 1pm | All Ages
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.
Lansing Public Libr ar y
Address: 2750 Indiana Ave., Lansing IL
Phone: 708-474-2447
Email: shari@lansingpl.org
Website: www.lansingpl.org
South Holland Public Librar y
Address: 16250 Wausau Ave., South Holland IL Phone: 708-527-3160 or 708-580-6161
Email: library@southhollandlibrary.org
Website: shlibrary.org/events-calendar
Thor nton Public Librar y
Address: 115 E. Margaret St. Thornton, IL.
Email: library@thorntonil us
Website: https://www thorntonlibrary org/
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
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
PASTOR EL CID ZOLLICOFFER
PASTOR SHONNI ZOLLICOFFER
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.
Bible Study 7:00 p.m.
REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH
651 East 166th St., South Holland
708-331-4100
redeemer-lutheran@sbcglobal.net
WORSHIP SERVICES
Sunday 9:30 a.m.
Sunday School 10:45 a.m.
Channel 6 Tues. 10:00 a.m.
ST. PAUL’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN
CHURCH & SCHOOL
8601 Harrison Avenue, Munster, In. 46321 219-838-6720 stplmunster.com
Pastors: Peter Speckhard, Adrian Krebs
WORSHIP SERVICES: Monday: ..........................................6:30 p.m. Sunday: .....................8:00 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.
Bible Study: Sundays at ........9:15am (Sunday school at this time too) 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month (Ladies’ Bible Study) Wednesdays at 10am Thursdays at 10am (Nursery available for Sunday morning services)
ESPIRITU DE DIOS
16400 S. State St., South Holland
708-439-1220 sogfchurch.com
PASTORES Jose & Paula Lopez
SERVICIOS: Grupo de Oracion de Hombres Jueves ........................................... 7:30 p.m.
Sabado Alabanza y Predicacion.....6:00 p.m.
UNITY OF NORTHWEST INDIANA
Plum Creek Center
2138 Moeller Street Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 931-5284 www.unitynwi.org ALL WELCOME
MINISTER: REV. GERALDINE COLVIN SUNDAY SERVICE.......................10:00 AM
Heart Smart
JOSH BOOTSMA
Have you ever forgotten to pay for something? What an awful feeling. From realizing the credit card payment was due yesterday to discovering that your child smuggled a ring pop out of the convenience store, it feels terrible to realize that we owe something and haven’t paid for it.
It feels bad because we know what justice looks like in our day-to-day financial obligations. When we make credit card purchases, we’re agreeing to pay our credit card bill. When we enter a store, we (and our children) are agreeing to pay for whatever we walk out with. We understand that we need to pay what we owe. This intuition comes from God, the ultimate standard for what is just.
But when it comes to our sinfulness, God helps us realize that we can’t pay what we owe. And we owe a lot.
Our careless words, our deep selfishness, our impure thoughts —
all are debts against God and require payment, a payment we cannot provide. Instead, God sent Jesus to take our debt and pay it through his death on the cross — a payment that will never expire or be exhausted.
You might wake up one night remembering you still owe a debt to your bank, but you will never wake up and owe anything to God for your salvation. The 18th century hymn writer Augustus Toplady said it well: “Payment God cannot twice demand, first at my bleeding surety’s hand and then again at mine.” That “bleeding surety” is Jesus, and his payment has already been made in full — all you need to do is accept it. The chorus of our lives, then, is this: “Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe; sin had left a crimson stain, he washed it white as snow.”
Josh Bootsma Member, Covenant Fellowship Church cfcsh.org
Words, Your Word, and The Word
by Janice R Newman
No one should be at a loss for words since there are over 600,000 words in the dictionary. Daily, we either speak, read, or write them. People are transformed by the words they speak and are spoken to them: positively or negatively. Words have the power to encourage and to destroy. Words have lasting effects, with your mind constantly replaying the words like a repeating record. Therefore, you must watch the words you utilize, have integrity to stand on your word, and keep the Word of God in your heart.
Watch the words you say and receive from yourself and others. Proverbs 18:21 teaches us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” This verse teaches us that words bring life and death to the giver and receiver. Once the words are spoken, they cannot be unsaid; therefore, pause and think before saying anything. The words will linger on. People will remember both the kind and hurtful words after they are spoken and will react accordingly. Choose your words wisely, take responsibility for the words you choose and show integrity when giving someone your word.
There is power in giving your word to someone. When you make a promise or commit to something, you are standing on integrity to do what you say. When you give your word to someone, others will view your character as honest, dependable, and honorable if you follow through with the promise. This demonstrates reliability that you can be trusted.
Your word reflects who you are. It’s not to be taken lightly, as it can bring reassurance, comfort, and trust to the relationship. Treat your word as if it were gold. Carelessly giving your word that you will commit or make a promise to do something, and then not doing it, will cause heartbreak and disappointment. When you fail to keep your word, break promises, or disregard others, it can damage relationships, create division, and
cause people to lose trust in you. Your reputation and influence will tarnish as people will stop trusting you. It reminds me of the many broken promises we heard as children. Some of us have heard more than others. Experiencing repeated broken promises can leave a lasting negative impact. It leads to distrusting others, inability or unwillingness to make commitments, or fear of inflicting disappointment on others. How to live faithfully with integrity by your word is taught by The Word of God.
The Word of God provides lessons on integrity and offers guidance, strength, correction, wisdom, and truth to direct our decisions. Unlike a man’s word, which can change, lie, or be true, God’s Word is always true, as God does not lie, is eternal, and unchanging. The Bible is more than just words- it’s God’s divine message and truth revealed to us. It provides direction for how we should live our lives.
In Mathew 4:4, Jesus answered, “…It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.’” To know the Word of God, we must read, study, and meditate on the Word, then allow it to direct us. Obeying the Word of God influences our actions, attitudes, and behavior by providing the foundation and direction on how we should live.
Words are powerful and deeply important, whether we are the ones speaking them or hearing them. Words have different meanings literally and to the individual. Choose your words wisely with love, integrity, and wisdom. Live accordingly to the Word of God to experience His greatness and promises. Always remember that words have power, influence, and meaning to change lives, so pause and think carefully about words. Y? Why Not!
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ACROSS
1. The borders of an object 6. Aligned oneself with 11. Ethiopian or Cushitic
Chevron
Give forth
Vow
Carry
Stress
C
Dainty or priggish
Having a sharp inclination
Fog
More reasonable
Also
Small open pies
Type of rock 31. Anagram of “Sense” 32. Frightens
34. Kept separate or in reserve
36. Plants having a fleshy edible root
39. The distinctive spirit of a people
40. Can
41. Anagram of “Loses”
43. Dyeweed
44. One more than six
46. Not at all
47. Gremlin
48. A high-ranking officer
50. Fasten with cords 51. Draw in 53. Flyer
55. Avoiding detection 56. Soap froths
57. Sharp sides of blades
58. Directs from the front
DOWN
1. Japanese warrior
2. Tomography
3. Harsh noise
4. French for “State”
5. Locations
6. Leather strap used to sharpen razors
7. To press clothes
8. Faint or poorly lit
9. Gourmet
10. Arid regions
11. Assists
12. Half man half horse (classical mythology)
13. Snooped
14. Searches
19. Tender
22. Acknowledge
24. Large house
26. Tall woody perennial grasses
28. Adolescents
30. Mineral-bearing rock
31. Term of address for a man
33. Burial ceremony
34. A sports competitor
35. Repositioned
37. Schemed
38. Elderly
39. Pitchers
40. After the ninth
42. Fortune tellers
44. Religious factions
45. Pertaining to the navy
48. Storm
49. Low-calorie
52. Small piece of cloth
54. An expression of surprise
NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
From September 15th through October 15th, we recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. During the four weeks, celebrations honor the heritage and contributions made by members of the Hispanic community. With great fanfare, celebrations sweep across Latin America, Central American, and Mexico, and Chili commemorating each country’s independence from week to week!Source: nationaldaycalendar.com
Michael P. Wisniewski, Jr. age 93, of Dyer, IN, formerly a long time resident of Hegewisch, passed away on Friday, September 5, 2025. Beloved husband of the late Theresa Wisniewski, nee Michalski. Loving dad of Michael (Pam) Wisniewski, Lawrence (Tami) Wisniewski, James Wisniewski, and Victoria (Bryan) Paliga. Devoted grandpa of Nicholas Wisniewski, Ryan Paliga, Ashley Wisniewski, Lauren Wisniewski, and Michael Wisniewski. Dear brother of the late Dorothy (late Ray) Galgan and the late Leonard (late Nancy) Wesson. Mike was loved by all who knew him and will be deeply missed.
Visitation Thursday, September 11, 2025 from 3:00 – 8:00 P.M. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.) Dyer, IN. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025 at 10:30 A.M. meeting directly at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 1 E. Wilhelm St. Schererville, IN. with Rev. Marty Dobrzynski officiating. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery –Calumet City, IL. For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com
Olivia Mary Salazar, age 13, of Schererville, IN, passed away suddenly on Thursday, September 11, 2025. Loving daughter of John Salazar and Nicole Ivanova. Dear sister of Noah, Allison, and the late Caleb. Cherished granddaughter of Frank and Mary Salazar and Olia and the late Angel Ivanova. Kind niece and cousin to many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Olivia will be forever missed.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 3:00 – 9:00 P.M. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN.
Kathleen Ruth Yonkman, nee Koenes, age 92, of St. John, IN, went home to her Lord and Savior on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Beloved wife of the late John Yonkman. Loving mother of Brian (Cynthia) Yonkman, Diane (David) Siersema, Debra (Scott) Heersema and Scott (Lynnette) Yonkman. Precious grandmother of Daniel (Carrie) Siersema, Laura (Philip) Mulder, Matthew (Ginnette) Yonkman, Elizabeth (David) Sitter, Andrew (Cassandra) Siersema and Steven (Allison) Yonkman. Proud greatgrandmother to 16 and one on the way. Beloved aunt to many nephews and nieces. Preceded in death by her parents John and Elsie Koenes. Dear sister of Leonard (Carol) Koenes and Anna Jean (late Harold) Porte, and sister-in-law of the late Ruth (late Henry) Boer, and Joyce (late Theodore) Bear. Kay grew up and lived most of her life in Lansing, IL. She was a devoted wife and mother, and worked as a bank clerk, a hairdresser and in various capacities at The Door Store in Munster. Kay was a longtime member of the First PCA Church (formerly First Reformed) in Lansing, where she attended faithfully. She was loved by many and will be dearly missed. Visitation Friday, September 19, 2025 from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN, with a funeral service to be held at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Oak Ridge Cemetery - Lansing, IL. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the First PCA of Lansing, IL, or to a cause of your choice.
Maria J. Gifford, nee Gleich, age 58, of Dyer, IN passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Beloved wife of Donald E. Gifford II. Loving mother of Donald (Hannah) Gifford III and Ian Gifford. Devoted daughter of Edward and Carol Gleich. Dear
sister of the late Debbie (Frank) Pellegrino, Mark (Dawn) Gleich, Andrea (Mike) Smagacz, Edward (Cynthia) Gleich Jr., Lynda McDavid, Christine (Arnie) Klemm, and Michael (Jennifer) Gleich. Cherished aunt of many nephews and nieces. Maria loved being involved in the community, volunteering with Dyer Little League and opening her home to support others with childcare. She was loved by many and will be dearly missed.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Funeral service, Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be given to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation ( https:// www.bcrf.org/).
For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com
Frederick “Rick” Lee Ham, age 67, of St. John, IN, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025. Beloved husband of Linda Ham, nee Gonska. Loving father of Cathy Ham and Nick (Holly) Ham. Cherished grandfather of Mason and Owen. Loving son of Doris Ham and the late Peter Ham. Dear brother of Lori (Dale) Evers, Dave (Vickie) Ham, Cyndee (Peter) VanVuren, Michael (Karrie) Ham, and Kevin (Emily) Ham. Rick was a former fireman for the Lansing Fire Department and is a member of the Lansing Lions Club. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed.
by
Chrysl New Y k
Melvin Allen and Robert Allen Jr. pictured below in front of their 1954 Chrysler New Yorker on August 24th, 2025. A project they completed after inheriting the vehicle from their
Visitation Sunday, September 14, 2025 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Funeral service Monday, September 15, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Andy Nearpass officiating. Interment Memory Lane Memorial Park—Schererville, IN. Memorial contributions may be given to the Lansing Lions Club (P.O. Box 421, Lansing, IL 60438) or Elim Christian Services.
For further information, please contact 219-3227300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com
Brothers
father.
Photos
Paul Bourné
INTERCOUNTY
I3273370
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION
WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE CSMC 2021-RPLl TRUST
Plaintiff vs. ALONA MATTHEWS; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS
Defendant 23 CH 9364
CALENDAR 63
NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on October 27, 2025, at the hour 11:00 a.m., Intercounty’s office, 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, IL 60602, sell to the highest bidder
When you plan a trip, you consider not only the destination but also the climate, activities that interest you, transportation needs, anticipated costs, best time to go and coverage for your work, home or pets. It’s a holistic approach — looking at your trip from a variety of angles.
It’s wise to apply that same holistic thinking when you plan for your financial future — that is, bringing into the picture all elements of yourself. Here are some things that may affect your financial strategy:
• Your views on helping your family – Your decisions about helping your family are clearly going to be a major part of your financial strategy, and this is true at virtually all stages of your life. When your children are young, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to save money for their college education, and if so, how much, and in what investments. When they’re young adults, you may also need to decide how much financial support you’re willing to provide for major expenses such as down payments on a new home or a new car. And when you’re drawing up your estate plans, you’ll need to consider how and when to distribute assets to your children, grandchildren or other family members.
Cook County Homeowners Saved $1.9 Billion Under Fritz Kaegi’s Reforms, University of Chicago Study Finds
Cook County — Reforms implemented by Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi have saved middle and lower-income homeowners $1.9 billion in property taxes that they would have paid under the previous assessment system, according to a new study by Christopher Berry, professor at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy.
The report, An Evaluation of Progress on Residential Assessment Fairness in Cook County, analyzed assessment data during Kaegi’s tenure from 2019 to 2024 and found that “the Kaegi administration has made substantial progress in improving the fairness of residential assessments” and “dramatically reduced” previous regressivity in Cook County tax system.
Regressivity is a common problem in property taxation, and happens when lower-priced properties are overassessed relative to their actual value, while more expensive properties are underassessed. As a result, the lower-priced properties shoulder more of the tax burden than they would under fair assessments.
“Under the old system, when mansions and luxury condos weren’t taxed at their real value, working-class families had to make up for it. It was like Robin Hood in reverse,” said Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi. “We fixed that fundamental unfairness, and the data shows we’ve saved homeowners more than a billion dollars in the process.”
Kaegi was elected in 2018 after the Chicago Tribune and ProPublica exposed widespread unfairness in property tax assessments under the Berrios administration. According to that reporting, the previous administration significantly undertaxed the highest-valued homes in Cook County. That resulted in the systemic over-taxation of a majority of homes.
Key findings from the report include:
• Low- and middle-priced homes, the bottom 70 percent, are paying $1.9 billion less in property taxes under the
Kaegi administration compared to the previous administration.
• Under the previous administration, the most expensive homes were under-taxed by roughly $1.7 billion, shifting that tax burden onto less valuable homes.
• Tax shifting has been “nearly eliminated” under the Kaegi administration, with all properties now within 10 percent of their correct tax share.
• Homeowners would save even more on their tax bills under the Kaegi administration, but the Cook County Board of Review has systematically undermined this progress, shifting 3 to 4 percent of the tax base onto residential properties every year through commercial appeals.
In addition to documenting how the Kaegi administration’s work has lowered property taxes for low and middle-priced homes, the report also reveals that the Assessor’s Office’s assessments have generally shifted the tax burden from homeowners to commercial properties. However, “the Board of Review has granted commercial appeals at a rate that has effectively undone those changes.” A recent study of commercial assessments by Cook County suggests that commercial properties are underassessed after appeals finish at the Board of Review.
“We’re doing our part to bring down property tax bills, but when other parts of the system are granting unfair appeals to big skyscrapers downtown, middle-class families end up paying the difference,” said Kaegi. “We really need the whole system working together for the average taxpayer, regardless of whether or not they can afford a high-powered tax appeal lawyer.”
The University of Chicago study was conducted independently using publicly available data from the Cook County open data portal and was not commissioned or funded by the Assessor’s Office.
• Your personal beliefs – As someone with civic, ethical and moral concerns, you may feel compelled to make charitable gifts throughout your life and then make philanthropy part of your legacy. To accomplish these objectives, you’ll want to include gifting techniques in your financial strategy today and your estate plans for tomorrow. Of course, for the estate-planning component, you’ll need to work with your tax and legal advisors.
• Your purpose in life when you retire – Having a purpose can bring fulfillment beyond financial security. Leading up to retirement,
your purpose may involve providing for your immediate family, bringing value to your profession or contributing to your community. When you retire and step off your career path, you’re entering a new world of possibilities. How will you define, and live out, your new sense of purpose at this stage of your life? Do you seek to broaden your horizons by traveling around the world? Or spend more time volunteering? Can you pursue hobbies that give you a chance for self-expression? Each of these choices will carry different financial implications for how much you’ll need to accumulate for retirement and how much income you will need to take out each year from your retirement accounts, such as your IRA and 401(k).
• Your health – Your physical and mental health can play big roles in your financial plans and outlook. On the most basic level, the healthier you are, and the better you take care of yourself, the lower your health care bills will likely be during retirement, which will affect the amount you need to put away for health care. And you also may need to prepare for the costs of long-term care, which can be enormous — in fact, a private room in a nursing home in can easily cost $100,000 per year, according to Genworth, an insurance company. It can be challenging to weave all these elements into a single, unified vision, so you may want to get some help from a financial professional. But, in any case, be prepared to look at your situation holistically because, when putting together a lifetime’s financial strategy, every part of your life matters. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Patrick Zamkin, located at 18735 Dixie Hwy, Homewood, IL 60430. Contact us at (708) 798-9066. Edward Jones. Member SIPC.
Lauren Jelencovich to Perform in Highland, IN on Oct. 4, 2025
MUNSTER, Ind. –(September 13, 2025) – Classically-trained and internationallyacclaimed soprano Lauren Jelencovich will be performing live at Highland High School, 9135 Erie Street, Highland, IN 46322 on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
Single tickets available on the day of the performance for $30.
For more information, please contact Carolyn Borchardt at 219-932-9795 or cborc86914@aol.com.
“…the most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard!” - Yanni Lauren Jelencovich and her sparkling soprano voice impart her love and passion for all genres of music to thrill and entertain
audiences of all ages. Having made her Off-Broadway debut in the world premiere of The Music Teacher and received critical acclaim for countless other roles that she has played, Jelencovich has also performed alongside music industry superstars like Renee Fleming, and is the Grand Prize Winner of Ed McMahon’s Star Search and Andrea Bocelli’s World Scholarship. Her program features a diverse repertoire of familiar songs, like “The Prayer,” “O Mio Babbino Caro,” “Over the Rainbow,” and so many more! Click Here To View A Video Of Lauren Jelencovich.
Lakeshore Community Concerts has been presenting concerts to the community since 1947. LCC is committed “to offer to every man, woman and child the opportunity to experience the magic of live performance at an affordable cost.”
AC/HEATING
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
Garage Sale
GARAGE SALE!
SATURDAY, 9/20, FROM 9AM-5PM, 248 SOUTH HARPER, AVENUE IN GLENWOOD. Decorative pillows, wall plaques, pictures, air painter, 3-piece wall painting, lamps, tools, Christmas decorations, housewares, round pink girls chair, etc. Everything like new.
GARAGE SALE AT 16813
CARRINGTON DRIVE IN SOUTH HOLLAND
Friday 9/19 and Satuday 9/20 from 9am-5pm. Lawn equipment, furniture, construction supplies, Halloween and Christmas decorations. Many items like new.
Wanted
Looking for room to rent with own bathroom. NW Indiana/Lansing area. Elderly care experience. 40+ Non-drinking/smoking male w/ maintnenance skills. Prefer kitchenette & garage space. 708-898-8668
Looking for Older Chevy or Ford Truck in good condition, Low Miles and Price from ‘99-2004. Also older Toyota Car, in good condition, Low Miles and Price from ‘95-2000. Also in search of a Wringer Washer in working condition. Call 219-801-0955
For Rent
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
APARTMENT FOR RENT- Available Now$900 a month. - 2 beds, 1 bath, live-in kitchen. Private parking. No pets. One month security and rent required. 17701 Commercial Ave in Lansing. Apartment 2W on second floor. Seniors welcome. Call Winston708-251-8266
For
Sale
For sale, like new TOTAL GYM. Burnham. $50. Call 708-891-4798
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
For sale, TKO five piece drum set, A1 condition, high hat, cymbals, etc. All hardware included. $300 O.B.O. Call 708-598-5136
A few Bully Pups (5 months old) are looking for their forever homes. They are friendly, active, and love being around people.Good with families, up to date on care and ready to bond with their new people.We are asking a modest rehoming fee. ($300) Serious inquiries only (773)457-9616
Conduit 70’ x 1/2 EMT
$20, Cuisinart Bread Machine $35; Butterball Turkey Fryer $25; George Forman Grill $20; Dell Printer $30; tools. 708877-6088
Large indoor steel dog cage, 48” x 36” x 30”, good condition, $75; 1965 Ladies Schwinn Hollywood Bike, All Original, Rideable, Good Condition, $90 Leggert & Platt Metal Bed Frame New in box. $90 new, asking $30. Galvinized Pipe - 9 pc, 8’ x 2” - $10 ea, or 6 pc, 6’ x 2” $7 ea. Call Phil 708-877-1228. No calls after 6pm please!
Chicago Bear glasses, 6 for $15.00. Ann Taylor Loft sweater/coat, long, medium, caramel, $30.00, originally $90.00. 708-645-4245
Vehicles
2009 Checvy 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 $6,250. If interested, Call 708-9138624
For Sale:2010 Ford Fusion SEL Tux Black Original adult owner, highway 208000 miles, 2.5 L. 4 cylinder. Well maintained, rust at rockers,many new parts, everything works. Looks Good, Runs and drives excellent.$2800 or Best... (708) 710-6253
