The TurfMutt Foundation Says Thank a Tree this Arbor Day, April 25
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – In recognition of Arbor Day on April 25, the TurfMutt Foundation is celebrating the vital role trees play in enriching our environment, enhancing our health, and beautifying the spaces where we live, work, and play.
“Trees are environmental superheroes,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “They clean our air, cool our neighborhoods, support wildlife, and even help us feel better—physically and mentally. This Arbor Day, we invite everyone to step outside, enjoy the trees in their communities, and consider planting one to leave a lasting legacy.”
The TurfMutt Foundation shares these many reasons to thank a tree this Arbor Day:
• Reduces heat islands: Large parks or tracts of urban trees can cool daytime summer temperatures by about 10 degrees. Shaded ground can be up to 36 degrees cooler than unshaded ground.
• Produces oxygen: Two mature trees provide enough oxygen for one person to breathe over the course of a year.
• Improves air quality: In L.A. alone, trees remove nearly 2,000 tons of air pollution each year.
• Makes people healthier & happier: According to the Arbor Day Foundation, people who engage with trees and green spaces daily have better mental and physical health than those who spend less time in nature.
• Better learning: Trees on or near school grounds are positively linked to students’ academic achievement.
• Decreases energy costs: According to the Urban Forest Coalition, 100 million mature trees around U.S. residences save approximately $2 billion annually in reduced energy costs.
• Boosts property values: Each front yard tree adds one percent to a homeowner’s sale price, while large specimen trees can add 10 percent to property values.
To help children and families explore the benefits of green spaces, the TurfMutt Foundation offers free lesson plans and activities designed to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Discover more in the TurfMutt Foundation’s International Backyarding Fact Book, and don’t miss Mulligan the TurfMutt on CBS’s Lucky Dog Saturday mornings.
About the TurfMutt Foundation TurfMutt, which celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2024, was created by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s (OPEI) TurfMutt Foundation and has reached more than 70 million children, educators and families since 2009. Championed by Foundation spokesdog, Mulligan the TurfMutt, and through education partners such as Scholastic, Discovery and Weekly Reader, TurfMutt has taught students and teachers how to “save the planet, one yard at a time.” Today, TurfMutt is an official USGBC® Education Partner and part of their global LEARNING LAB. TurfMutt has been an education resource at the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Green Apple, the Center for Green Schools, the Outdoors Alliance for Kids, the National Energy Education Development (NEED) project, Climate Change Live, Petfinder and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 2017, the TurfMutt animated video series won the coveted Cynopsis Kids Imagination Award for Best Interstitial Series. TurfMutt’s personal home habitat was featured in the 2017-2020 Wildlife Habitat Council calendars. In 2024, the Great Lawn at Louisville’s award-winning Waterfront Park on the Ohio River was renamed the TurfMutt Foundation Great Lawn as part of a $1 million sponsorship. More information at www.TurfMutt.com
Giannoulias Issues $1.3 Million to Support 2,500
Illinois School Libraries
Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias has awarded more than $1.3 million to 2,484 Illinois public school libraries throughout Illinois.
The grants, awarded in the spring of every fiscal year, support school library services for Illinois students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade. Resources and services provided through the grant include library books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.
“Illinois students deserve to have access to quality library resources, including learning materials, books and online services at our public schools,” Giannoulias said. “Libraries serve as places of knowledge, learning and discovery and this funding will help equip them to educate and inspire our future generations.”
Based on a statutory formula, school districts receive $0.885 per student for their enrollment at each school having a qualified library. Funding for the program originates from the General Revenue Fund and is appropriated by the Illinois General Assembly.
“The school district library grant is an investment into the
futures of all Illinois students. With this funding, library staff provide a rich array of materials, including books, online resources, and technology, to meet the educational needs and spark the interests of all K-12 students in all areas of our state,” said Chiddix and Evans Junior High School Librarian and Illinois Library Association Executive Board Director-at-Large Michelle Glatt. “We appreciate and commend Illinois leaders, especially Secretary of State and State Librarian Giannoulias, for their commitment to school libraries and the young people they serve.”
“Throughout Illinois, school librarians are thankful to receive these grants from Secretary Giannoulias to improve our libraries,” said Jacob Roskovensky, Danville School District Librarian and President of The Association of Illinois School Library Educators (AISLE), which provides leadership and support for the development, promotion, and improvement of school libraries.
“In some districts, this funding is the sole source of revenue to purchase books. These grants allow school librarians to continue to bolster their educational offerings, ensuring that all Illinois students have opportunities to learn.”
New Property Tax Savings for World War II Veterans
Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi and staff welcomed World War II veterans and their spouses to the office this week to honor their service and celebrate a new program that will exempt them from property taxes.
The World War II Veterans Exemption was created by the Illinois state legislature and signed into law in 2024. It permanently exempts members of the United States Armed Forces during World War II from paying property taxes.
The veterans in attendance were Eddie Durham, Leo Schmitz, Thomas Cernek, and Don Ferrone. Anita Hurwitz and Barbara Martin, surviving spouses of two other veterans, also attended.
Assessor Kaegi presented certificates to all the attendees in honor of their military service and listened to each family share their story about serving their country.
The oldest veteran in attendance is 103 years old. His daughter and caretaker expressed her gratitude for the tax-saving program
and shared that her father enjoys meeting other WWII veterans like himself.
“As the descendant of veterans, I was proud and honored to be able to thank these veterans and their families for their service to the United States,” said Assessor Kaegi. “Help us spread the word to other military families that may be eligible for these savings.”
The Cook County Assessor’s Office also offers exemptions for Veterans with Disabilities and Returning Veterans.
For more information, see https://www.cookcountyassessor. com/exemptions. Exemption applications are due by Monday, April 21. If a homeowner misses the deadline, they can file for what is called a Certificate of Error to redeem past exemptions.
Applications can be downloaded at www.cookcountyassessor. com/exemptions
More photos of the event are available at https://www.flickr. com/photos/cookcountyassessor/albums/72177720325106370.
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Steps to take before — and after — a divorce
SUBMITTED BY PATRICK ZAMKIN
Going through a divorce is emotionally painful and can disrupt one’s life in many ways — but does it also have to be financially devastating?
Not necessarily. You can help yourself greatly by making a series of moves. Here are some to consider:
Before the divorce is final …
• Determine how you’ll cover the cost of the divorce. To meet the costs of a divorce, which can be tens of thousands dollars, you may need to tap in to your income stream and savings accounts, or even explore alternative options, such as borrowing from your retirement plan, if it’s allowed by a divorce court judge.
• Create a budget. You may want to build a temporary budget. Your divorce attorney can advise you on how long your separation period may last in a contested case.
• Start building separate bank and brokerage accounts. Consult with your divorce attorney on ways to establish independent bank and brokerage accounts without harming your spouse.
• Understand your retirement benefits. Know the value of your and your spouse’s 401(k) or similar plans, IRAs, pensions, stock options and other employer benefits. Also, you might need to negotiate the splitting of retirement benefits through a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO). A tax professional and a financial advisor can help you understand how different QDRO proposals can affect your retirement goals.
After the divorce is final …
• Finish building your separate financial accounts. You may want to close any joint accounts or credit cards, change online access to financial accounts, remove your name from bills for which you are no longer responsible and complete any agreed-upon asset transfers, such as dividing retirement assets.
• Create a new budget. You can now create a longer-term budget, incorporating any spouse or child support you receive as income. You may also need to adjust your spending to
Blessings to the Pontus
By Janice R Newman
April 21st, 2025, marked the sad ending of a twelve-year era of Pope Francis of Argentina, who passed away. He was the first elected Pope from South America. He was elected by a papal conclave with the College of Cardinals on March 13, 2013. Pope Francis became pontiff after Pope Benedict’s retired from the papacy in 2013.
Pope Francis was known recently for his stance in rebuke of the Trump administration’s orders for the deportation of people because of their illegal status in America. The Pope was staunchly against the immigration crackdown. J. D. Vance, Vice-President of the United States, was one of the last dignitaries to meet with Pope Francis on April 20, 2025, just the day before his death. The New York Times reported that the two met to exchange opinions on various issues including migration and international conflicts.
Pope Francis was passionate about his concern for the poor and emphasized the importance of having compassion and mercy for those less fortunate. He was open to discussions with people addressing issues such as needed reforms in the Vatican, views of other faiths, divorce, international conflicts, and climate change.
The Vatican will prepare for his funeral and the start of the new papal conclave to elect the new Pope. The Vatican will proceed with completing the burial tradition of a public viewing, funeral mass, and burial. The Pope will have a public viewing at St. Peter’s Basilica for people to pay their respects. Typically, a Pope’s viewing and funeral has attracted large crowds of mourners and world leaders.
The Catholic Church has approximately 1.3 billion world religious followers.
Although the Vatican follows tradition for most rituals, Pope Francis requested burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome because of his known devotion to the Salus Populi Romani icon. The burial will take place between 4 to 6 days after his death.
After the burial, the papal conclave will start the process of electing a new Pope, which will start between 15 to 20 days after Pope Francis’ death. The cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican and vote secretly to choose the new Pope. The chapel is secured, and the cardinals will be isolated. Each cardinal votes by secret ballot. The newly elected Pope must obtain a 2/3 majority to be elected. Each round of voting the ballots are burned in a stove, which sends up smoke to signal the results. Black smoke indicates no new Pope was elected, and white smoke indicates a new Pope was elected.
The duration of the papal conclave varies from a few days to several weeks, with Pope Francis having one of the shortest being just over 24 hours and the longest being 2 years and 10 months (11/126809/1271). The new focus will be on the election of the new Pope. The possible contenders are Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy, Archbishop Aveline of Marseille, France, and Cardinal Tagle, of the Philippines. Although of the same faith and Catholic doctrine, each potential new Pope has different viewpoints, stances, and beliefs that will define their Pope era and impact on the Catholic Religion and the world.
reflect items in the divorce agreement, such as expenses now covered by your former spouse and court-ordered responsibilities for paying college education expenses for dependent children and possibly the attorneys’ fees for a former spouse.
• Review your protection plans. You may need to review your life, homeowners and auto insurance policies. And if you were covered under your spouse’s health insurance plan, you may want to apply for COBRA to stay on that plan up to 36 months or switch to your own employer’s plan, if available. If you don’t have access to an employer’s health insurance, you may want to explore a marketplace plan from the Affordable Care Act or contact a health insurance broker.
• Review your estate plans. To reflect your new marital status, you may need to work with your legal professional to change some of your estate-planning documents, such as a will, living trust, advanced health care directive or power of attorney. Also, review the beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, IRAs, annuities and investment accounts, as these designations can likely supersede instructions on your will or trust.
• See your tax professional. You may need to consult with your tax professional on issues such as changing your tax return filing status, claiming a child as a dependent and dealing with tax implications of assets received in the divorce.
Going through a divorce is not easy — but by taking the appropriate steps before and after the divorce is finalized, you can at least help put yourself in a more secure and stable financial position to begin the next phase of your life. 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.
Giannoulias Celebrates Financial Literacy Month With Book Donation
Recognizing Financial Literacy Month, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is celebrating a generous donation of books that teach children about the value of financial literacy, which every Illinois public library received.
As part of its charitable endeavors, Walmart donated 1,500 copies of Mellody Hobson’s ‘Priceless Facts about Money’ to over 750 public library branches across Illinois.
An Illinois native, Hobson is the CoCEO & President of Ariel Investments, a global value-oriented asset management firm founded in 1983 in Chicago. Hobson is a leader in corporate boardrooms, as former chairman of Starbucks Corporation and a current director of JPMorgan Chase. She was listed among Forbes Magazine’s 100 most powerful women in the world.
Written for children, Hobson’s book illustrates with entertaining stories and facts how money works and introduces readers to fundamental principles of financial literacy and money management.
The Illinois Literacy Foundation, through the Illinois Secretary of State’s office received the books from Walmart and distribution of the books has been facilitated by the Illinois State Library.
“Mellody Hobson is one of the brightest financial minds of our generation and now children across Illinois can enjoy her book and learn valuable financial lessons at their local library,” said Giannoulias who serves as State Librarian. “We appreciate Walmart’s generous gift and its effort to
enhance financial literacy opportunities for our youth.”
“My life’s passion has been to teach our nation about the importance of financial literacy as an integral part of children’s education. My hope is that this book demystifies money for kids of all ages and helps the ‘grown-ups’ that love them,” said Hobson. “I am grateful to Secretary Giannoulias and Walmart for supporting a brighter, financially healthier future for the next generation.”
“Financial literacy is a life-changing skill that opens doors to opportunity. Mellody Hobson is a barrier-breaking pioneer in the world of finance, who through her book, ‘Priceless Facts About Money’, demystifies money and financial planning for kids and adults,” said Walmart Regional Manager Adonis Clark. “This collaboration with Secretary of State Giannoulias and the Illinois Public Libraries, to ensure copies of Mellody’s best-selling book are available in every library across the state, is an example of the many ways Walmart is advancing financial literacy. We believe offering financial tools —like Mellody’s book—will empower people to live their best lives.” Illinois Literacy Foundation (ILF) promotes literacy awareness and supports literacy programs throughout the state to benefit all residents of Illinois. The ILF supports an ecosystem of more than 100 literacy service providers, 640 public library systems and 852 public school districts to serve over 12.5 million Illinois residents.
LOCAL CHURCHES
CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH, COGIC
1151 E. 170th St., South Holland
708-331-8389
FAX 708.331.8374 Admin@ChristCommunityCOGIC.org
PASTOR DR. CARL E. KING, SR.
COVENANT UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 1130 East 154th St., South Holland
708-333-5955
www.covucc.org
PASTOR REV. DR. PATRICK L. DAYMOND
FIRST CHURCH (PCA) 3134 Ridge Rd, Lansing
708-474-9610
www.firstchurchpca.org
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
9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m.
GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, LCMS
8303 Sheffield Avenue Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 865-1137 gracedyer.org
PASTOR REV. DALE HETHERINGTON
RECONCILIATION CHURCH
833 East 168th St., South Holland
708-331-7755
www.reconciliationchurch.org
PASTOR GLEN MCCARTHY
WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m.
REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH
651 East 166th St., South Holland
708-331-4100
redeemer-lutheran@sbcglobal.net
WORSHIP SERVICES
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
RICHARD ZEKVELD
Jesus was crucified on Good Friday. The Roman governor released his body to a wealthy friend who buried him in his expensive tomb. With only 2-3 hours to bury Jesus before the Sabbath, the women hadn’t time to anoint Jesus’ body with spices. So, a group of devoted women headed for the tomb with their spices at the crack of dawn on Sunday.
As they walked, the women discussed a huge problem that awaited them – a huge barrier between them and the body of Jesus. It was the massive round stone, rolled into a groove at the entrance of the tomb. It was probably 1000 pounds plus.
Death, too, is a barrier that separates us from those we love. No human can move it. But God can! Death is only a temporary barrier between those who belong to Christ by faith.
Mark 16:4 says, “Looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back – it was very large.” The barrier
between these women and the dead Jesus was gone. Little did they know that the barrier between them and the risen Jesus was gone. They didn’t find the body of Jesus in the tomb. Instead, they found angels who told them Jesus had risen from the dead.
Christ is risen! He lives to forgive all who confess their sin and selfrule to him. He lives to give eternal life to all who trust him. He rose again to restore us and all creation to life under God’s rule again. When you receive Jesus as your Savior and King, his resurrection becomes your resurrection. When Jesus returns at the end of time, your body will rise again, a 2.0 upgrade. And you will live with the risen Christ on the new earth forever.
Richard Zekveld, Pastor, Covenant Fellowship Church (cfcsh.org)
Question: We are going to sell our home. We have a dog and cat. What suggestons do you have for showings?
Answer: Your pets are members of your family, and you love them as such, but when it is time to sell your home, they can create a bit of a challenge in a few key ways.
You are not alone if you are trying to sell a home and you have pets. Around 60% of sellers have them, with 61% being dogs and 33% being cats. However, buyers either want to visualize their own pets in the home or, depending on their preferences, no pets at all.
Pets can also create messes and odors that can turn buyers off.
It is important when your house is on the market that you keep it incredibly clean, especially if you have pets. You want to make sure you get to the root cause of any odors as well.
If you have rugs or carpets, you might need to have them professionally cleaned or even replaced to eliminate pet odors. Same with furniture.
Vacuum your home every day.
You must be conscious of not just odors and cleanliness when you have pets, but there may be people who come into your home with pet allergies. Pets can be destructive, and you may overlook some of this damage because you are used to it, but buyers will not.
Go through your home with fresh eyes and look for any pet damage that needs to be repaired, like scratched or torn furniture or flooring, chew marks on baseboard or window sills or ripped curtains.
Check for any damage outside of your house too.
Remember, not everyone loves pets as much as you do.
If possible, put your pets elsewhere during showings.
If your pets do have to stay at home, come up with a solution with your real estate agent. Do not have buyers be surprised by your pets.
For example, maybe you can put them in the basement and leave a few notes if necessary.
Tell people in your note they should not try to pet your dog or cat, even if they are friendly.
Finally, talk to your real estate agent about giving you plenty of notice before a showing so you can arrange care for your animals whenever possible.
E-mail us your Real Estate questions at Cathyah@aol.com. Thinking of selling your home? Call Cathy & Jim Higgins, Licensed Broker/Realtors in Indiana & Illinois. IN: 219-865-4361 IL: 708-828-3304. McColly Real Estate. Website: www.Cathyhiggins. com. Personal
CATHY & JIM HIGGINS
WORDSEARCH
ACROSS
1. Indian semi-classical vocal music
Brickbat
Bust maker
Cool 15. Legal prefix 16. Sundae topper, perhaps 17. Person who interprets constitutional law strictly 20. Makeup, e.g. 21. “... ___ he drove out of sight” 22. Enlarge 23. Soon, to a bard
Drop 26. Horse’s fast gait
Outlaw
33. www.yahoo.com, e.g. (acronym)
34. Riot
36. No longer in 37. “Get ___!”
39. Foul
41. Brain area
42. Not fulfilled
44. Doozie
46. “China Beach” setting
47. Scenery and props in a play
49. Photo equipment
51. ___ nitrate
52. #1 spot
53. Young offspring of a dog
56. “___ Ng” (They Might Be Giants song)
57. Challenge for a barber
61. Instruments with parabolic antennae (2 wds)
64. Boosts
65. 20-20, e.g.
66. Dukes
67. High school formal dance
68. Convene
69. Aegean vacation locale
DOWN
1. Boor’s lack
2. ___ vera
3. Tissue joining two parts of an organ
4. Bad way to go?
5. Astern
6. Brush off
7. Shoestring
8. “A jealous mistress”: Emerson
9. Unmarried girl
10. Not sanctioned by law
11. “Mi chiamano Mimi,” e.g.
12. Medical advice, often
13. Pigeon’s home
18. Look into again, as a cold case
19. Drunk, in slang
24. “___ any drop to drink”: Coleridge
25. Atlanta-based airline
26. Masters
27. “You ___ kidding!” (contraction)
28. Andean animal
29. Change, as a clock
30. Agreeing (with)
31. Except
32. Swelling
35. Noise and confusion
38. Strict adherence to the law
40. Tropical American plants with lancelike leaves
43. Beat
45. Cap
48. Modus operandi
50. Autobiography
52. About
53. “That’s a ___!”
54. “Aquarius” musical
55. Taro’s edible root
56. On the safe side, at sea
58. ___ line (major axis of an elliptical orbit)
59. Remaining after all deductions (var. spelling)
60. “___ quam videri” (North Carolina’s motto)
62. “The Three Faces of ___”
63. Ozone enemy (abbrev.)
EARTH DAY
As citizens of the world, we can take action to protect the Earth, its creatures, and its habitats. Greener living can include more fuel-efficient vehicles or windows. It can also include landscaping for your climate reducing the amount of water required. Numerous green campaigns launch events around the globe each year. Join one near you or organize one that fits your community’s needs. nationaldaycalendar.com
Forrest R. Struven, age 75, of Thornton, IL, passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Beloved husband of Claudia Struven, nee Strassenburg. Loving father of Kirk Struven, Erik (Alyson) Struven, and Kristie (Regan) Ruchala. Devoted grandfather of Halie, Maxwell, Ashlie, Emma Rose, Ethan, Kenneth, Kaitlyn, and Kristopher.
Mr. Struven was a retired steelworker for Acme Steel. He was loved by his family and will be dearly missed. Private family services will be held. Interment will take place at Homewood Memorial Gardens – Homewood, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home – South Holland, IL. 708-333-7000 or www.SMITSFH.com
Speaking Of Seniors
Billing Company Ignored the Facts
WOODROW WILCOX
On April 10, 2025, the husband of a client brought a medical bill that was sent to his wife and some other papers for me to review. He had all the papers that I needed to prove that a medical billing company was ignoring the facts and had sent a fraudulent bill to our client – his wife.
With some editing to protect privacy, here is the letter that I sent to the medical billing company.
Your firm billed our client $258.57 on the bill dated March 28, 2025 for service on date 07/30/2024 on Account Number XXXXXX.
Our client sent to our firm this bill from your firm for our review. I reviewed the bill from your office, the Medicare Summary Notice, and the Explanation of Benefits from the secondary insurer.
The Medicare Summary Notice should have exactly the same information as the Medicare Explanation of Benefits that your firm has. Note footnotes A and B to claim XXXXXXX. Those footnotes state that there was an adjustment because of an error in billing and because the client should NOT be charged. If the client is charged, the client does not have to pay.
The EOB from the secondary insurer reports these figures for this claim. The original bill was $280; Medicare Approved only $107.14; Medicare paid $84; the
secondary insurer paid $17.14. The balance of $4.29 should have been discounted by your firm. The client’s insurance company understands that your firm is contracted to offer a discount through XXXXXX Health Network. That firm can be reached at 817-XXX-XXXX. If this is not true, please phone the client’s insurance company at 877-XXX-XXXX. Your bill to our client for $258.57 IS NOT BASED ON THE FACTS. If you disagree with this, please explain why in writing.
The help that I am giving to this client is FREE OF CHARGE. This insurance agency helps all our clients with similar medical bill problems at no charge. It is how we demonstrate that we really do care about our clients. If your insurance agent or agency does not give such a high standard of customer service, why don’t you switch to a better firm?
Note: Woodrow Wilcox is the senior medical bill case worker at Senior Care Insurance Services in Merrillville, Indiana. He has saved clients of that firm over three million dollars by fighting mistakes and fraud in Medicare related medical billing. Also, Wilcox wrote the book SOLVING MEDICARE PROBLEM$ which is available through book stores or online.
Neighbor 2 Neighbor
Thursday April 17, 2025. The washing of the feet has to do with Jesus washing the feet of the Apostles the night before he was murdered.
At Misch Brothers on Good Friday. Mark Nykowski along with Joan, Cecilia and Rick. Happy Easter 2025!
The washing of the feet. Symbolically, the parish priest, Fr David Simonetti of St Florian/Christ our Light Parish washed the feet of parishioners on
Holy Thursday washing of the feet. At St Florian Christ our Light Parish in Hegewisch. Am mixing pictures and events from Holy Week together.
Jesse Gomez and his family at Steve’s in Hegewisch. Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter!
Locals enjoying a dinner at Steve’s in Hegewisch. Pictured here are friends from around the area, Friday April 18, 2025. One last fish fry before end of Lent.
Mr Darling Granddaughters Tina and Alex in a sunny spring day. I’m so proud of these lovely ladies who are 29 years old this April 6, 2025. Their Dad Spencer Leigh Minton Jr would be so proud.
Pictured in front of altar at St Florian Church/ Christ our Light in Hegewisch. We are Janice Minton Kutz and Jamie Tarrant just after 9am Mass on Easter Sunday April 20, 2025.
JANICE MINTON-KUTZ
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
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 DEVA: 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 : HARVEY LIBRARY CONTINUED
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/
GARDEN CLUB
April 24 | 7 PM | Ages 18+
Master Gardeners from UoI will be presenting on container gardening.
Lansing Public Libr ar y
Address: 2750 Indiana Ave., Lansing IL
Phone: 708-474-2447
Email: shari@lansingpl.org
Website: www.lansingpl.org
Open Your Ears to Opportunity
by Janice R Newman
Have you missed an opportunity because you weren’t fully listening? Sometimes a chance could change your life but only if you’re paying attention and ready to act. Life is full of chances and opportunities but to notice them, you must be willing to “open your ears” to opportunities. You must be willing to listen mentally and spiritually, accept new ideas, step out in faith, be receptive, and be willing to take chances when they arise. Opening your ears can inspire, motivate, and lead you to success.
“Open your ears” is a figurative expression. It means you’re actively paying attention, watching your surroundings, learning from conversations, and being willing to open the door to growth, motivation, and success. Successful people keep their ears open to receive information, advice, and keep the doors open for good things to happen. They are always listening, alert to new trends, and for opportunities.
In Proverbs 20:12, it says, “Ears that hear and eyes that see- the Lord has made them both.” (NIV) God gave us ears for more than just sound. God gave us the ability to learn, grow, and hear the right things at the right time. He wants us to hear with our hearts and minds too. We need to be wise and ready to receive the guidance, understanding, and opportunities God brings us that can alter our path.
One example is Tom Hanks was not the original choice for Forrest Gump. The first choice was John Travolta, who turned it down. Because Travolta said no, it opened the opportunity for Tom Hanks to say yes. That decision changed his career and earned him an Oscar. This shows that one opportunity, if you’re ready to hear and receive it, can drastically change your future.
Pastor Chris Chappell from Crossroads Church in Sauk Village, Illinois, is a great example of someone listening for the call of opportunity. He recently
received a call to travel to Peru and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with people in the remote Amazon area. Pastor Chris had to be open to God’s calling for this mission. He’s using this opportunity to give back, help others, and spread the Word of God to people who may never have heard it. These opportunities come to those listening and ready to say “yes” when the call comes.
Being open to opportunity is not just about career choices, fame, money, or big adventures. Some are about purpose, faith, and service. We must be alert and willing to move when opportunities happen. Even small opportunities can transform our lives.
Sometimes opportunities can come in a whisper, in a conversation, in new relationships, or in a small chance of doing something different. If we are too distracted, negative, or closed-minded, we might miss an opportunity when it knocks. The more we say yes to the right things, the more confident and motivated we become.
Success often comes from being open to listening, learning, trying, or possibly failing but trying again. When we open our ears, mind, and heart, God can use us in powerful ways. We keep our ears open by praying and asking God for guidance. We open our ears and listen to wise people who care about us. We must stay curious and ready to learn, along with dismissing fear when opportunities come.
Opening your ears to opportunity is a powerful and motivational way to live. You must listen carefully, trust God’s plan, and be willing to act when a door opens. Whether, it’s a role in a movie, a mission trip to Peru, or a small opportunity to be kind and helpful to someone. The opportunity for growth and success is always around us. Don’t miss your opportunities by keeping your ears, mind, and heart open. And say yes when the opportunity calls. Y? Why Not! Like us on Facebook https://www. facebook.com/ywhynotshow/
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: 708-527-3160 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/
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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
2017 Toyota Tundra. Blue 1-Owner 110,000 miles, 4-Wheeldrive 6 speed Auto with Cover for bed. $26,000 OBO. Call Paul 708-878-8860.
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
VANDERWIELDES
In search of a Vintage Cobra Cb Radio Company Wall Clock. it would be square framed in black with white background and the iconic blue snake and lettering. Cobra used to give these to local Cb shops selling their products back in the day. Call Dan 312-720-0844
Garage Sales
MEADOWS SUBDIVISION SALE - 35 HOMES!
Friday April 25 4:30pm -7 pm Saturday April 26 8-2, All homes will have detailed maps We are located off Sheffield Ave by the new south shore and 1 block north of Walt’s GPS 856 Sunflower Lane, Dyer For Rent
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 RENT
COMMERCIAL SPACE
1,100 SQ FT $2,050
Utilities Included 3655 Ridge Rd Lansing, IL Call Paul 773-307-1399
SPACIOUS AND QUIET
2-BEDROOM, 2-BATH
CONDO AVAILABLE IN A 55+ BUILDING
LOCATED AT 18855
BURNHAM AVE #135, LANSING, IL 60438. This well-maintained unit features a patio off the living room, an ample dining area, and a master bedroom with two closets and a private bath. The building offers convenient elevator access, a heated underground garage with storage, and a peaceful living environment. Rent is $1,600 per month with a $1,600 move-in fee. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity! For more information or to schedule a viewing, contact Wyomia Ellison at 708-250-2228 or Samuel Ellison at 708-9159466.
NEWLY RENOVATED
2 BEDROOM, 1 BATHROOM IN CALUMET CITY. $1,350/ MONTH, one month security deposit, background check required. Owner pays gas, tenant pays electric. Laundry onsite, parking offsite. Quiet building. Call 708-288-5358 for more information.
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 information.
For Sale
TWO BURIAL PLOTS IN CEDAR PARK CEMETERY, Calumet Park. Call 708-567-4475 for details.
Loveseat, very pretty, sofa sleeper, very comfortable, earth tone colors. $249. Two identical living room lamps from Florida, 32 inches tall, very pretty, $150. Located in DeMotte. Call 219-588-3322 for more information. Lamps could be delivered.
Flexsteel Sofa ($575) & Loveseat ($400). Both power remote. From Pet and Smoke Free Environment. Call 773343-0424 to view in South Holland Storage Area.
1 GE electric stainless steel double oven, 1 Amana electric glass cooktop, both are in excellent condition. $600 for both or available separately. Best offer considered. 5 foot long, 30 inches high all glass jewelry case with light, $100 or best offer. NordiTrack treadmill in great shape, $150 or best offer. For more information, call 708-536-3228.
Boat Motor, 9.9 Mercury w/ 6 Gallon Gas Tank, Very Clean, Runs good, firm $400. Trailer tire mounted 4.8 x 12” white rim, $12. 708-877-6088
Ladies Adolpho suit, white size 12, must see, $50.00. Baby changing table, walnut wood frame , excellent, $29.00. 708645-4245
Singer portable sewing machine, model 9020, includes foot pedal, instruction booklet, interchangeable presser feet, needles and bobbins, in a canvas carrying case. $100.00. 219-836-6104
Antique outboard motors . 2 Johnson1 Scott Atwater. $250 for all . 219-9237716