Anniversary of the Eenigenburg Family in America
On Saturday, June 22, 2024, over 210 family members attended the Eenigenburg family reunion commemorating the 175th anniversary of their ancestors’ emigration from the Netherlands to America. The event was sponsored in part by the South Holland Historic Society.
Nearly all the attendees were direct descendants of Gerrit & Jannetje (Ton) Eenigenburg who, in 1849, were among the first settlers of the area that later became known as Roseland. Four years later, Gerrit sold his home and became the second settler of Oak Glen (now Lansing). He was a significant figure in the early development of these areas of the Calumet Region.
While they emigrated for better opportunity and for religious freedom, the journey was catastrophic, as Asiatic Cholera broke out on the 3rd day of the crossing. Of the 65 brave souls who left the area around the village of Eenigenburg in the Netherlands, 19 lives were lost, including 15 children and 4 adults. In fact, Gerrit & Jannetje lost three of their four young children.
Mercifully, after an arduous journey of over 60 days, they arrived in Chicago around June 20, 1849. They met Klaas Poole on the dock, who was part of an earlier 1847 Dutch settlement that later became South Holland. The widow Paarlberg and others had settled there previously. After trekking on foot to both the 1947 settlement, and the Roseland site then known as “high prairie,” the pioneers purchased their land, built homes and farms, and began taming the wild wilderness.
The reunion was attended by members of three branches of the Eenigenburg family from numerous states, representatives from the Ton family (from which they are also descended), and Paarlberg family members.
Among the featured speakers, Bill Paarlberg, a direct descendant of the widow Paarlberg, spoke of ties between our ancestors in the two early settlements. Dr. Larry McClellan, President of the Little Calumet River Underground Railroad Project spoke of Jan Ton’s work as an abolitionist, who at great personal risk, joined the network to assist freedom seekers escaping slavery. His pioneer farm on the Little Calumet River has been added to the National Park Service registry of significant Underground Railroad sites. Dr. McClellan also told of a recent visit by the Dutch Ambassador to the United States to announce a grant from the Dutch government. Jan Ton & Jannetje (Ton) Eenigenburg were siblings.
The Eenigenburg family is a branch of the Ton family that held large reunions for 60 years beginning in 1896. In the September 4, 1945 issue of Life Magazine, during WWII, the Ton family reunion was featured in an expansive two-page article with photos. The Harry Eenigenburg family has held reunions since 1959 and this was our 66th annual, which was expanded to include the other branches in honor of the 175th anniversary. It was a true celebration of one of the south side’s earliest families.
IL Families Spending 55% More Time
Together Compared to 2018, According to Study.
Spending time with family is universally cherished as one of life’s profound yet fundamental joys. Indeed, a Pew Research Center survey found that for many Americans, family time is a paramount priority. Backyard Oasis, a company that offers premium backyard furniture & gear, recently conducted a survey of 3,000 families to determine how much quality time they spend together each week.
The survey revealed that the average Illinois family spends just 6 hours and 41 minutes of quality time together each week (compared to a national average of 6 hours and 17 minutes). While that might sound like just enough time to binge-watch a couple of episodes of your favorite show, the good news is that, compared to a similar study in 2018, families are spending over two hours more per week together. This is a 55% increase compared to six years ago.
There were notable geographical variations. North Dakota families, for example, spend 8 hours and 30 minutes together each week, an increase of almost 100%. On the other hand, families in West Virginia spend the least amount of time together, averaging just 4 hours and 30 minutes of quality time each week. Backyard Oasis delved further into the topic of quality family time. They asked Illinois respondents how many times they sit together for meals each week, with the average being four times. When it comes to activities, families have varied preferences. The survey found that the most favored activity for families to
do together is watching TV or movies, with 41% of respondents choosing this option.
Other popular activities include:
• Playing board games or video games: 17%
• Traveling or taking day trips: 15%
• Engaging in outdoor activities : 13% (e.g., hiking, biking)
• Cooking or baking together: 13%
Of course, organizing these activities can sometimes be a bit tricky. Almost half of the families (49%) said planning family trips is the toughest challenge. Fifteen percent find coordinating a simple family meal to be a Herculean task, while 14% said getting everyone together for sports is the hardest.
And then there’s the question of technology. When asked about the use of electronic devices during family time, 12% of families admitted that phones are always welcome at the dinner table. A more laid-back 67% said devices are sometimes allowed, while a strict 5% said they’re banned altogether.
“Family time is a cornerstone of happiness and well-being,” says Andy Wu of Backyard Oasis. “Despite modern day challenges, the good news is that families are spending nearly two hours more together each week compared to a few years ago, which is a positive trend. We hope these insights encourage more families to prioritize and cherish their time together, creating lasting memories and stronger bonds.”
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The Value of the (Same Old) Bedtime Story
If you’re trying to establish a good bedtime routine for your child, you may have noticed that there are a lot of options out there: charts, checklists, apps, audiobooks, songs, stretches, videos, and more—all designed to help kids wind down and (hopefully) drift off to sleep. If some of these things work for your family, that’s great! But often as parents and grandparents, we find ourselves on a constant search for “bigger, better, more” because we think that’s what kids want and need. But what if it’s the opposite? When I was a child, my mother recited a gentle rhyming poem to my brother and me every night. It described how several animals went to sleep, and best of all, it concluded with a personalized stanza pointing out that it was time for us to get in bed, too. For many years, I couldn’t go to sleep without hearing it. (I’ve recently turned this story into an illustrated children’s book so my four grandchildren will be able to remember it—and hopefully recite it to their own kids one day.)
I’m not a parenting expert, but I’ve noticed that what feels good to children doesn’t always line up with what we’re told. They may not consciously realize it, but kids aren’t always craving something shiny and new. Just like my brother and me, my own grandchildren request the same stories over and over again. Hearing something familiar brings them comfort and helps them relax. Honestly, it helps me relax too. (Be honest: How many of us really have the bandwidth to curate a brand-new experience for our kids each night?)
My point is, bedtime rituals don’t have to be complex. Telling a simple story, tucking kids in, and saying goodnight might not be complicated, but it creates structure and helps children transition from a busy day to a restful night’s sleep.
For many families, the end of the day is
the only time without back-to-back activities, homework, and the myriad obligations of daily life. Bedtime allows us to enjoy quality time together with no major agenda, no distractions, and if we so choose, no technology. I’ve found that leaving screens outside the bedroom invites my grandkids to more fully connect with me— often through conversations and snuggles. Those are some of my most cherished memories, and hopefully as they grow up, they’ll feel the same way.
So—pick a favorite book, whether it’s a classic or a new release, and make it a regular part of your family’s bedtime routine. Even better, write your own special story alongside your children or grandchildren. Let your kids or grandkids be the main characters, or retell a favorite family memory.
In my new book, I’ve intentionally included a space for readers to write and illustrate their own story. It’s a wonderful keepsake, but more than that, it allows you to spend the right kind of time with your child or grandchild. My biggest piece of advice after going through this process myself? Don’t worry about perfection. This isn’t about writing an award-winning story with stunning illustrations. It’s about being together and creating a tangible memory you can return to over and over again.
About the Author:
Wendy Reed is the author and illustrator of The Bedtime Story. She lives in Crosby, Texas, where she has worked as a Realtor for over 20 years. Wendy and her husband, Chris, have been married for 43 years. They are the proud parents of two accomplished grown sons, Rodney and Justin, and have four amazing grandchildren: Aubree, Connor, Reece, and Claire.
About the Book: The Bedtime Story (May 2024, ISBN: 979-83240342-4-5, $8.95) is available from Amazon.
Do TBA and Not ABT
by Janice R Newman
Have you ever been in a situation and quickly reacted, and then wished you had thought it through beforehand? Many of us have. To prevent this, it’s important to remember the phrase “Do TBA, not ABT” (Do thinking before acting and not acting before thinking). This means we should think before we act. It could save us a lot of headaches, heartaches, and regrets.
Sometimes, we make rash decisions without even realizing it and your mind is questioning “Wait! Was I even involved in what just happened?”. Our impulsiveness drives us to act before we have made a conscious thoughtful decision. By thinking before acting, we allow ourselves to make better choices. This rational approach can prevent us from making mistakes, allowing us to respond more appropriately. We must control our quick reaction to allow for a moment of thought.
First, ABT, or acting before thinking, can lead to problems. When we act impulsively, we don’t take the time to understand the entire situation. For example, you might see something happening and react without thinking. Maybe your child comes home acting strangely, and you immediately get angry without asking what’s wrong. In such cases, taking a moment to think can help you react more calmly and reasonably.
Thinking before acting means taking a step back to analyze the entire situation, asking yourself the when, what, where, why, who, and how questions. By thinking first versus acting first, you can plan and weigh your actions reasonably. This is important so the situation does not escalate to an unnecessary conflict.
The Bible provides advice on thinking first in Proverbs 13:16 (NLT), “Wise people think before they act; fools don’t – and even brag about their foolishness.” Wise people are smart because they take the time to consider the action options and their potential consequences or outcomes. Impulsive people act without thinking, which is foolish. It’s worse if they brag about their irrational actions. Therefore, it’s always better to be
wise and TBA.
Thinking before acting also helps us to control our emotions. When we act impulsively, we often do so out of anger, fear, or excitement. We’re caught up in the moment usually the wrong way. These highly emotional actions can lead to negative consequences, regrets, and mistakes. By pausing to think, we can calm ourselves and make better decisions. How often do you get upset with a friend and send a quick, rash text response versus taking a minute to think about what you want to say or if you need to say anything? I have more than once. TBA can help prevent misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
Lastly, thinking before acting helps us make better choices. When we consider the possible outcomes of our actions, we can choose the best course of action. This applies to social interactions, financial choices, health, and everyday decisions, such as prioritizing and taking care of responsibilities. Socially, TBA helps you decide on personal relationships (socializing with positive, productive people) and what social activities to participate in (attending a party or not). Financially, TBA helps control impulse buying to avoid unnecessary debt and buyer’s remorse. Physically, TBA contributes to developing healthy habits to stay fit. Thinking before acting applies to all aspects of our lives such as time management and setting an effective work-home-life balance.
So, thinking before acting allows us to consider the potential outcomes to make informed and thoughtful decisions. It reduces our impulsiveness to act immediately without thought. Preventing us from later regretting our actions that we can’t take back. Pausing to think, we can ensure that our choices align with our values, goals, and the situation. So, think before you act and think the situation through. Master this habit so your impulsive actions don’t master you. Y? Why Not! Like Y? Whynot! on Facebook (Bit.ly/ ywhynot_Facebook) and on YouTube (Bit.ly/ ywhynotshow).
Could Not Help The Man
On June 17, 2024, I wrote a letter to a man to tell him that I could not help him with a medical bill that he got. The reason was that he stopped being our client. The man is 85.
A few years ago, an agent at our Valparaiso office reviewed his needs and helped him get a Medicare Advantage policy with Aetna Insurance Company. But he faxed to me a bill and a copy of a policy card from a Medicare Advantage policy with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
I phoned him to ask how he got a policy card from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. He said he walked into an office near the medical clinic that he was using and bought that policy from a woman who said that she helped veterans (which he was).
I explained to him that because he bought the Anthem policy from an insurance agent who was not affiliated with our insurance agency, I had no legal standing to help him resolve the billing problem. I explained that he had to return to that woman or the agency where she works to get help with the bill. He understood my point.
Note: Woodrow Wilcox is the senior medical bill case worker at Senior Care Insurance Services in Merrillville, Indiana. He has helped clients of that firm save over three million dollars by fighting mistakes and fraud in the Medicare billing system. Also, Wilcox wrote the book SOLVING MEDICARE PROBLEM$ which is available through book stores or online.
Speaking Of Seniors
LOCAL CHURCHES
CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH, COGIC
1151 E. 170th St., South Holland
708-331-8389
FAX 708.331.8374
Admin@ChristCommunityCOGIC.org
ChristCommunityCOGIC.org
PASTOR DR. CARL E. KING, SR. WORSHIP SERVICES
SUNDAY
Church School 9:15 a.m.
Worship Services 10:30 a.m.
WEDNESDAY Bible Study…… 7:00 p.m.
COVENANT UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
1130 East 154th St., South Holland
708-333-5955
www.covucc.org
PASTOR REV. DR. PATRICK L. DAYMOND WORSHIP SERVICES
Sunday Worship 7:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Wed. Bible Study Noon
FIRST CHURCH (PCA)
3134 Ridge Rd, Lansing
708-474-9610
www.firstchurchpca.org
PASTOR WYBREN OORD
Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.
Sunday School 11:00 a.m.
Evening Worship 5:30 p.m.
FIRST ORTHODOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SOUTH HOLLAND
16248 South Park Ave., South Holland
708-333-8211
www.firstchurchsh.org
PASTOR REV. DANIEL SVENDSEN WORSHIP SERVICES
Sunday 9:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m.
GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, LCMS
8303 Sheffield Avenue Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 865-1137 gracedyer.org
PASTOR REV. DALE HETHERINGTON
WORSHIP SERVICES
Sunday........................................... 9:00 a.m.
Bible Study Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Monday...........................................7:00 p.m.
Saturday Prayer Service 10:30 a.m.
JESUS LIGHTHOUSE OF LOVE
INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES 19058 Burnham Ave, Lansing 312-206-1833
facebook.com/JLOLMinistries
PASTOR EL CID ZOLLICOFFER
PASTOR SHONNI ZOLLICOFFER WORSHIP SERVICES
Sunday........................................... 11:00 a.m. Wed. Service on Facebook.............7:30 p.m. Women of Worship via Zoom 3rd Sat. @ 12 pm
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
6
ST. PAUL’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL
8601 Harrison Avenue, Munster, In. 46321 219-838-6720 stplmunster.com
Pastors: Peter Speckhard, Adrian Krebs & Donald Stock WORSHIP SERVICES: Saturday: 5:30 p.m. Sunday: 8 a.m. & 9:30 a.m. (Nursery
ESPIRITU DE DIOS
16400 S. State St., South Holland
708-439-1220 sogfchurch.com
PASTORES Jose & Paula Lopez SERVICIOS: Grupo de Oracion de Hombres Jueves ........................................... 7:30 p.m. Sabado Alabanza y Predicacion.....6:00 p.m.
UNITY OF NORTHWEST INDIANA
Plum Creek Center 2138 Moeller Street Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 931-5284
www.unitynwi.org ALL WELCOME
MINISTER: REV. GERALDINE COLVIN SUNDAY SERVICE.......................10:00 AM
The ‘elephant in the room’ is a big and obvious issue nobody names or talks about. In the Bible book of Esther, God’s sovereignty is the Elephant in the Room. The author of Esther never names God. And yet, his sovereign presence and power are all over the drama.
Queen Esther and her older cousin, Mordecai, are Jewish. Haman, the king’s right-hand man, designates a “Genocide Day” against the Jews. Mordecai urges Queen Esther to plead with the king to save her people. Esther says, “But I could be executed for barging in on the king, uninvited.”
Mordecai then responds to Queen Esther with these famous words in Esther 4:13-14 (ESV). “Do not think to yourself that in the king’s palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
Mordecai tells Esther that, even if she doesn’t step up to plead for her people, “relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place.” In other words, God will deliver his people, with or without Esther. Because he is sovereign over all nations and has promised to preserve his people for his purposes. Mordecai then asks Esther, “Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Mordecai is saying, “Esther, let the truth of God’s sovereign presence and power over creation and history fill you with confidence, conviction, and courage to step out as an agent God will use to accomplish his sovereign purposes.”
More on that next week.
Richard Zekveld
Pastor, Covenant Fellowship Church cfcsh.org
RICHARD ZEKVELD
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
Calumet City Public Library
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 Library
Address: 14037 Lincoln Ave, Dolton, IL
Phone: 708-849-2385
Email: lincoln@doltonpubliclibrary.org Website: www.doltonpubliclibrary.org
BINGO NIGHT.
Starting October 12th, from 3 – 4pm. Held every 2 nd and 4 th Thursday in the Kopac. Please call (708) 849-2385 x3 leaving your full name, email address and phone number or send email to lincoln@doltonpubliclibrary.org to register. FREE
Virtual Zumba
Dolton Public Library District presents
VIRTUAL ZUMBA with licensed instructor Yvette Roberts. Come and join in the fun every Friday at 5pm. Please call (708)8492385 or email lincoln@doltonpubliclibrary. org and leave your full name, email address and phone number to register. (5pm – 6pm every Friday). FREE
BEGINNERS LINE DANCING with “DAWN the DANCIN’’ DEEVA”
Every Wednesday, from 3pm to 4pm. Please call 708-849-2385 ext. 3 to register, RSVP between Friday, 9am and Tuesday, 4pm ONLY. Leaving your full name and phone number. Held in the Josway Auditorium. FREE
VIRTUAL SENIOR YOGA
Every Wednesday taught by Dionne Arnold, Certified Yoga Instructor, (4pm to 5pm) Please call 708-849-2385 or email lincoln@ doltonpubliclibrary.org and leaving your full name, email address and phone number to register. FREE
SENIOR BRIDGE CLUB
Held every Tuesday, in person, from 3:30pm to 4:30pm.Please register by calling 708-849-2385 x3 or send email to lincoln@doltonpubliclibrary.org and leave your full name, email and phone number to register. FREE
VIRTUAL WORKOUT with SHEENA STINSON
Get in Shape from Home. Classes held every Monday from 6pm to 6:30pm. Please call 708-849-2385 or email us at lincoln@ doltonpubliclibrary.org leaving your full name, email address and phone number to register. A Zoom Link will be sent day of the program. FREE
Get up and Move with Simon Says
Join the Dolton Public Library Youth Services Dept. as we play “Simon Says”. Held every 3rd or 4th Friday from 10:45 to 11:45am starting Oct. 27 th . PLEASE CALL FOR FUTURE DATES. Register by calling (708849-2385, ext. 4) or emailing at lincoln@ doltonpubliclibrary.org leaving your name, email address, phone number and the number of children participating. FREE
Buriobo
Burbio is a one-stop free resource to find out about all the Dolton area events and activities. If your group wishes to post your events on burbio contact: groupsupport@burbio. com Sign-up at Burbio.com or download the free Android or iPhone app and follow the calendars that interest you. FREE
VIRTUAL PASSPORT TO KNOWLEDGE, Every first Monday of the month from 3:30 – 4pm. Pack your bags for a virtual trip around the world and learn about other countries and cultures. Register at lincoln@ doltonpubliclibrary.org or call (708-849-2385) and leave your name, email and phone number. Come curbside to pick up your Passport Packet prior to departure. The link for Zoom will be emailed prior to the program. FREE
BETWEEN the PAGES: A Virtual Story Time
Every third Saturday of the month at 1:30pm. To register call (708-849-2385) or email lincoln@doltonpubliclibrary.org and leave your name, phone number and email address. A link will be sent to you. FREE
COOKBOOK BOOK CLUB
Will meet in the Josway Auditorium on one Saturday a month, from 11am to 1pm at the library (14037 Lincoln Avenue, Dolton, IL 60419). To discuss the selected cookbook and to taste samples that have been prepared by our members from the recipes within the book. Potential new members please call 708-849-2385, ext. 5 to register leaving your name, email and phone number to get complete details. FREE
Homework Help
GOT HOMEWORK? NEED HELP? For ages 5 – 14yrs, make an appointment with Mrs. Brooks on Fridays or Saturdays by calling (708) 849- 2385 x 4. Sessions are limited to 30 minutes each. FREE
Toddler Time
For young children (18 mos – 4 yrs.) and their caregivers. Every 2nd Tuesday, 10:45am – 11:45am. 14037 Lincoln Avenue, Kopac Room, starting June 6, 2023. To join us, please register at lincoln@doltonpubiclibrary.org leave your name, email address or call at 708-8492385, ext. 4. FREE Family Game Time
Join us twice a month on Saturday, from 1:00 to 2:30pm for free fun and activities. To be held in the Youth Services department. Call (708) 849-2385 x 4 for future dates. NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. FREE
Creative Craft
Join Ms. Barbara every 4th Wednesday for a new fun art craft from 3:30 – 4:00 pm in the Kopac Room. NO NEED TO REGISTER KIDS &YOUTH 5-16 YRS. FREE!
Hammond Public Library
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
Harvey Public Library
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 Virtual 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 Library
Address: 564 State St., Hammond Phone: (219) 931-5100, ext. 310 or 307
Email: hplhelp@homewoodlibrary.org
Website: www.homewoodlibrary.org/
Lansing Public Library
Address: 2750 Indiana Ave., Lansing IL
Phone: 708-474-2447
Email: shari@lansingpl.org Website: www.lansingpl.org
Riverdale Public Library
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.
Summer Reading Safari
June 3 – August 3 Ages: All Sign up for our Summer Reading Safari via the Reader Zone App/Website to track your progress and earn points towards weekly prizes and raffle tickets to win a grand prize. Join the program with code d45ae.
Back-to-School Drive
July 1 - 31 During Normal Business Hours
Help our children succeed! Donations of school supplies are being collected all throughout the month of July. Supply list includes: glue sticks, pencils, crayons, markers, colored pencils, highlighters, sharpeners, erasers, rulers, compasses, scissors, calculators, lunch boxes and bookbags.
Geocaching
June 3 – August 3 Ages: All During regular business hours It’s time for the annual Atlas Multi-Library Geocaching Event! Use clues and geographic coordinates to find the hidden geocache at the Riverdale Public Library District and other participating libraries in the area. For each listed cache that you discover, you earn a chance to win a $25 gift card. You will need a smartphone that can scan QR codes and a library card in good standing.
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.
Paint, Sip, Tote
Thursday, July 25 3 – 4 pm Ages: Adults/Seniors Decorate a canvas tote bag with us while sipping on a tasty, non-alcoholic, sparkling beverage. All materials will be provided. Registration is required and can be found on our Eventbrite page. Limit: 12.
Mindful Music Meditation Presented by Iesha Sturdivant
Saturday, July 20 11 am – 12 pm Ages: Adults/ Seniors (Women only, please) Participants will be required to bring their own mat or blanket and pillow to lie on the floor. Registration is required to attend this event and can be found on our Riverdale Public Library District Eventbrite page. Limit: 15 This 60-minute session aims to empower participants to find meaning and purpose through mindful meditation through music. It is an intentional moment for participants to listen, learn, and breathe easily.
Quilting Club
Wednesdays July 3 and 17 10 – 11 am Ages: Adults/Seniors Come join the fun. It’s a free and inclusive space where everybody is welcome to come together and make and create.
Stress Reduction Meditation
Wednesday, July 10 4 – 5 pm Ages: Adults/ Seniors Relax with this guided meditation designed to help you let go of stress. Meditation begins promptly at 4 pm.
It’s Showtime (All ages)
Saturday, July 13 11am – 1:30 pm Ages: All Showing: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (PG-13) Drop in for popcorn and a movie. This event is free.
Cardio Drumming
Tuesday, July 16 12:30 – 1:30 pm Ages: Adults/ Seniors Have fun and get fit with cardio drumming. It’s a great workout that combines cardio exercise and drumming to the rhythm of the music. Registration can be found on our Eventbrite page. Limit 12.
Jewelry Making Class Tuesday, July 16 4 – 5 pm Ages: All Join this beginner basics jewelry class and create your own swoon-worthy designs.
LEGO Club
Saturday, July 27 12:30-1:30 pm Ages: Tweens/ Teens We’ll supply the Legos, you bring your imagination. Get creative with fun challenges or freestyle. Finished creations will be displayed in the library for a short period of time.
Line Dancing with Dawn the Dancin’ Deeva Saturday, July 27 10 – 11 am Ages: Adult Get ready to groove with Line Dancing, a fantastic blend of exercise and social dancing. It’s a great way to have fun and get moving at the same time. Feel free to join us at your own pace. Registration can be found on our Evenbrite page. Limit 15.
Let’s Learn Together
Tuesday, July 30 3:30 – 5 pm Ages: All Design a T-shirt in July.
Bookies Book Club
Wednesday, July 31 4 – 5 pm Ages: Adults A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson. The Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia to Maine and covers some of the most breathtaking terrain in America and Bill Bryson is surely the most entertaining guide you’ll find. He introduces us to the history and ecology of the trail and to some of the other hardy (or just foolhardy) folks he meets along the way along with a couple of bears!
South Holland Public Library Address: 16250 Wausau Ave., South Holland IL Phone: 708-527-3160 or 708-580-6161
Email: library@southhollandlibrary.org Website: shlibrary.org/events-calendar.
Thornton Public Library Address: 115 E. Margaret St. Thornton, IL. Email: library@thorntonil.us Website: https://www.thorntonlibrary.org/
Calendar of Events
Taste of Christ Our Savior Christ Our Savior Paish Presents:Taste of Christ Our Savior WHEN: SUNDAY, JUNE 30th, 2024 TIME: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (DOORS OPEN AT 11:00AM) PLACE: GYM THIS FOOD FESTIVAL SHOWCASES VARIOUS ETHNIC DISHES PREPARED BY OUR PARISHIONERS. FOOD COUPONS ARE $1.00 CHRIST OUR SAVIOR PARISH 880 E 154 TH ST. SOUTH HOLLAND, IL.
Neighbor 2 Neighbor
JANICE MINTON-KUTZ
Pile of dirt grows higher each week behind St Margaret Hospital in Hammond. The 150 year old institution’s fate is coming to an end
chirp all over western suburbs. So far the
not
Hopefully soon they will be gone.
Chicago’s East Side. Some 60 members and friends showed up for steaks and the fixings.
George M was a beloved member of the SSEVV and recently passed after a lengthy illness.
Also. Whiting July 4th Parade/SSEVV President Larry Kutz is asking members to participate in placing a wreath in the Whiting Veterans Memorial located at the corner of 119th Street and Schrage. Members should be there at 8 am. Whiting has asked the SSEVV to raise the US flag at the Whiting City Hall at. 9 am. Members will begin marching in the parade at 10 am.
The Gals at Steve’s Lounge on the Friday Fish Fry. Pictured are Jenny, Sandra and Laura! Fresh fish every Friday!
Piece by Piece the 150 year old St Margaret Hospital is coming down. Interior being guttered and then building to be torn down. No one knows what is to become of the parking garage which is relatively new.
Southeast Viet Nam Veteran President Larry Kutz talks with Trish from Burnham Amvets 43 at the annual steak fry on Sunday June 23rd, 2024 this year held at OHara’s on Chicago’s East Side.
Cicada’s
pesky critters have
hit the south suburbs yet, Bit the are loud and clear in places like Mokena (pictured here at deafening decibels).
The group from Loncar’s Tap at the ssevv steak fry at OHara’s on Sunday June 24, 2024. They are: Senteno, Jessica, Anita, Carol, Juan, Sam, Ricky, Tina and Fred.
Larry Kutz, President of the SSEVV association and Member Marge Brockman at the annual steak fry Sunday June 23, 3024 at OHara’s on the East Side of Chicago.
Musician Mario Zavala and SSEVV member Omar Medellin during Sunday’s Annual Steak Fry at OHara’s on
CROSSWORD
DOWN
1. Rub
2. A Great Lake 3. Nimble
4. Poems of praise written by King David
5. Current 6. Entice
7. Utilisers
A valley in France
Adherents
Prongs
Indian antelope
Suitor
Religious splinter group
A large continent
Curiosities
Sell again
Hurried away on foot
Connecting points
Swearings
Also known as
Size
A family of African languages
Wildebeests
Zulu warriors
An organic compound
Acquire deservedly
Profound
Not these
Levee
Nature of being
8. A Bantu language
9. Modifying text or film
10. Clean 11. Not odd
12. Being nothing more than specified
13. God of war (Greek mythology)
21. Louts
25. A range of mountains
27. JFK’s assassin
28. ___ de Janeiro
30. Wild African sheep
31. River in Egypt
32. Makes lacework
33. Partly open
34. Vault
35. Knights
36. Arouses enmity
37. Neither ___
41. Hearing organ
44. Conclusion
46. Knowing a secret
50. Advanced slowly
51. The mountain of the Ten Commandments
53. Kept separate
54. New York _____ newspaper
55. Desires with expectation
56. Shoot from a concealed position
57. Assist
58. Whip
59. Within
61. Make dark or gloomy
62. Anglo-Saxon slave
NATIONAL BINGO DAY
Bingo! That call-out is not just an exclamation of surprise or victory. Indeed, it is a beloved game that has united people across generations and countries. National Bingo Day honors this timeless game that has evolved from a simple lottery in 16th-century Italy to a digital phenomenon in the 21st century.
Expert tips for caring for trees, plants after cicadas leave
LISLE, Ill. (June 18, 2024)— The 17-year cicadas are past their peak in the Chicago area and will conclude their life cycle by the end of June, according to The Morton Arboretum scientists. The next step, they say, is to take advantage of their carcases and exoskeletons to help trees and plants thrive.
Dead cicadas make great fertilizer
Instead of discarding cicada carcases and exoskeletons in the garbage or landscape waste, Arboretum Plant Health Care Leader Stephanie Adams suggests scattering them on lawns or garden beds as fertilizer.
“They serve as great fertilizer as they decompose,” she said. “This pulse of nutrients from the cicadas will cause a burst of tree and plant growth the next year.”
Cicadas can also be added to a compost pile, but not alone. Mix them with green plant material, such as weeds or lawn clippings, as well as dried leaves or other brown material, Adams said.
“Keep the pile moist and turn it often to aerate it so the insects break down more quickly,” she said. “An unturned pile of dead cicadas will stink more.”
Remove protective netting from trees once cicadas are gone
When the female cicadas cut slits on thin twigs to lay their eggs, this process can damage young, small or unhealthy trees and shrubs. Tulle fabric or other fine-mesh netting used to deter egg-laying should be removed when cicada activity ceases.
“Once the cicadas are gone, remove the netting promptly,” Adams said. “Even though it’s mesh, it’s still blocking some sunlight from reaching the trees.”
New tree branches that were bent by the insect netting will later reorient to their normal growth habit, she added.
Post-cicada tree care
Plants are better able to handle any kind of stress— including slits in their twigs—if their general health is good
because they have the resources they need, Adams said. Water trees and shrubs regularly if they were planted within the last two to three years. In dry spells, water large, mature trees too. Spread an even, wide layer of mulch 3 to 4 inches deep around a tree, avoiding piling it against the trunk. The mulch will insulate against extremes in temperature, prevent soil moisture from evaporating and protect the tree’s roots and trunk.
Adams recommends monitoring trees for signs of dying branches, also known as “flagging,” or other problems caused by cicada damage, including small spots of brown leaves distributed around a tree’s canopy. Damage is likely to appear this year and into next year due to affected trees having fewer stored resources by then, she said.
“Because the egg-laying only affects small, easily replaced twigs, the damage is rarely serious except on some very small trees or shrubs,” Adams said. “For appearance, you may want to prune dieback from small trees or shrubs. On large trees, the dead twigs and leaves will break off and fall by themselves in time.”
For more expert tips about trees and cicadas, visit mortonarb.org/cicadas2024.
About The Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is a globally recognized leader in tree research and education. Its 1,700 acre site cares for 106,714 specimens representing 4,067 different kinds of plants. The Arboretum’s Center for Tree Science, Global Tree Conservation Program, Chicago Region Trees Initiative, and Center for Species Survival: Trees are contributing scientific knowledge and technical experience to secure the future of trees locally, nationally, and worldwide. Information about the Arboretum’s scientific work and how it contributes to a greener, healthier world where people and trees thrive together can be found at mortonarb.org.
Lottie Boldyn, Unit #133; Julian Haskins, Unit #134. Auction will be conducted online on www.storageauctions.com at 6 p.m. on 11 July 2024.
Lansing Self Storage located at 17506 Chicago Ave, Lansing, IL 60438, (708) 251-8350 intends to hold an auction of the goods stored in the following units in default for non-payment of rent. Consuella L Williams, Unit #114; Tina M Dzienisiewicz, Unit #57; Terry A Space, Unit #30. Auction will be conducted online on www.storageauctions.com and ends at 11:30 am on July 2, 2024 at above location.
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
HOUSEKEEPER FOR HIRE. Light housekeeping in Munster, Dyer, Lansing and Lynwood. Please call 708-704-9558.
DAVE'S POOL SERVICES
219-269-8627 Complete swimming pool service and repairs, Liner Replacements, Heaters, Installation, & Repairs, Openings, Free back yard designs. FREE ESTIMATES! 10% OFF EARLY BOOKINGS made before May 17, 2024
SMITH PAINTING 30 YRS
EXP FREE ESTIMATES
Mention Sherry, get 5%off job. Call Mike 2197429867
DRYWALL REPAIR: Handy
“All” Drywall Repair, plaster repair, light construction, interior decorating and interior painting. Cell 708-514-0217 phone 708-841-2523. Stanley McDavid
ARE YOU BUYING OR SELLING PROPERTY? WE
SPECIALIZE IN DELIVERING RESULTS.
BRUCE MCKINNEY
Call, send a text message, or an emailCell: 708-269-2992, email: bruce@ familypriderealty.comFamily Pride Realty, 3337 W. 95th St., Evergreen Park, IL. 60805
OVERNIGHT OFFICE
CLEANING AVAILABLE. South Holland Area. Call Randy 708-552-1839
HANDY MAN SERVICE
Lenord Wilks - Call 1-773-897-9464
LIGHT BULB SERVICE
Will replace your burnt out and broken bulbs - Interior/ Exterior. Also replace Smoke and CO2 Detector Batteries. 219-865-2345
ALL HANDYMAN
REPAIRS Done On The Side to save money! Painting, drywall, tile, concrete patching, doors, roofing, hauling. Very reasonable. Mark 708-408-7192
CONCRETE & PATCHING Done On The Side to save you money. Also general contracting, handyman work, FHA work & snowplowing. Very reasonable. Call Mark 708-408-7192
PAINTING SERVICES:
Economy Painting. Interior/ Exterior painting 20% Off. Mention this ad. Wallpaper instllation. General drywall repair & installation. Best price guaranteed. Ask for Ed. 708-548-6356 or 708-2885038.
ADG LAWN CARE HANDY
MAN Yardwork, Hedge Trimming, Small Tree Removal, Lot Clearing. Call 312-835-6645 or 773-5586757
AA PLUMBING Sewer
Rodding Large Pipes. Electric Power Rodding, Catch Basins Cleaned, Complete Plumbing Repairs, Water Heaters. Call 312-835-6645 or 773-5586757
PLUMBING SERVICES:
J.E.M. Plumbing & Sewer , Drain Cleaning Specialist, water lines, pumps, water heater, faucets, toilets, same day service. 219-845-7589 or 708-896-0500
GUTTER CLEANING:
SUPER FLOW Gutter cleaning, Free estimates. Very reasonable. Ask for Rob. No Sundays. 708-877-6860
HOME IMPROVEMENT:
A&A Services services faucets, carpentry locks, fence and gate repair, gutter cleaning, power washing, toilet repairs, wind damage repairs, caulking, rooftop repair. Insured. Free estimates. 219-865-2345
TREE SERVICE: Maggy’s Tree Service. Tree’s Topped, Trimmed, Removed, Bush Removal, Stump Removal. Walks shoveled. Also Insured Bonded. Free estimates. 708-200-8078
JUNK REMOVAL Time to make space! Cleanouts (garage attic, basement, shed). Hauling away appliances, furniture, trash. WE RECYCLE! Call ‘til 8pm. 708-898-8668
PAINTS OF AMERICA interior and exterior painting, plus carpet cleaning and gutter cleaning. Senior discounts. Call Algie at 708-574-6367
HARP-WILL CLEANING
INC. has several openings for experienced, dependable Home/Office Cleaners with a track record of excellent service. We offer competitive pay. Contact us at info@ harpwillcleaning.com or 708-855-4294.
GUTTER CLEANING. Just a friendly reminder that your gutters need cleaning. Also, for a limited time, we offer a Free Rooftop Inspection at no extra charge. Call today for your free quote 219-8652345
SHELTON’S FIREARM AND SELF DEFENSE LLC
www. sheltonsfirearmsandself defense.com Don’t be a Victim, Book A Class Today! “Shelton’s Firearm and Self Defense Training LLC” 708-502-3718
TRIPLE E LAWNCARE Full Service weekly lawn care. Power Raking, Aeration, Fertilization, Bush Trimming/ Removal/ Planting. Erik of Lansing 708-858-1213
DAILY MOVERS 20 miles one way $325-$425 Special 708-940-1378
CORONADO HOME IMPROVEMENTS. Providing home improvement services such as drywall repairs, painting, floor installations, plumbing and electrical services. For free estimates call (219) 902 1017
Wanted
83 yours old vet looking for Two bad room house for rent with garage. Algie 1708 574 6367
Wanted: socialization with deaf, hard-of-hearing, sign language interpreters and sign language students to improve sign language skills, willing to meet at South Holland library. Ms. Brown 708-224-3463
Need cleaning woman (or man) for doors, baseboards and exterior of kitchen cabinets; also vacuuming carpets. (708) 895-2647
In need individual looking for older model car donation or under $1000 708-341-3106
Single, childless, and disabled, female is in need of a smoke free and quiet room. Anyone interested in helping financially or with a bed? Not interested in drama, or sexual favors!! I”m trying to pay off debts and pay for my monthly expenses. I will not bring over family/friends. Thanks. Text/call 312.736.2037
LOOKING FOR AN ELECTRIC DRYER, can pick it up, call 708-882-3712
LOOKING FOR A TEACHER FOR MAKING SILVER JEWELRY and sodering. Pay negotiable. 708-882-3712
WANTED NEW OR USED CHILDREN’S BOOKS FOR FAMILY LITERACY DAY. (November 16) 708-9908002 Angiemjames409@ Gmail.com
WANTED DEGAN OR MUSSER VIBRAPHONE CALL 219-801-0955
IN DESPARATE NEED SMALL CAR FOR 80 YEAR OLD - ECONOMICAL 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
WANTED: 1972 & OLDER CARS & TRUCKS, PARTS, RUNNING OR NOT (and parts) unfinished project and 67-69 Camaros. 708-4399770
WANTED - GARAGE TO STORE MY OLD DODGE CAR. Could use 1 or 2 Stall Garage. Prefer the Lansing area. Call James between 9am and 9pm, 708-460-8308 IN SEARCH OF OLDER COBRA CB RADIO BASE STATIONS & ACCESSORIES let me know what you have. Dan 312-720-0844
SENIOR LOOKING TO RENT 2 OR 3 BEDROOM HOUSE WITH GARAGE. Have Sect. 8, also have 24hr caregiver. Looking in Lansing, Calumet City, South Holland, or Thornton ASAP. Call 815-263-0490. Ask for Carol
WANTED: Electric chainsaws and as many chains as you have. Exterior Brown Paint. 219-801-0955
WANTED: Old Deagan or Musser big bar vibraphones. Any Condition 219-801-0955
HELP WANTED
LOUBELLE’S KENNEL RECEPTION NEED FOR PT WORK, WEEKENDS POSSIBLE MUST LIKE DOGS AND CATS apply in person 16440 State St, South Holland, IL 60473
LICENSED INDIANA 24 HOUR CHILDCARE HOME LOOKING FOR AFTERNOON AND NIGHT HELPERS. Must pass fingerprints etc, FULL OR PART TIME 13.00 A hour 2195881763
Real Estate
STUDIO APARTMENT FOR RENT. Small studio, furnished, utilities included. Please call Mike @ 708-5740500
MODERN 1 BED APT owner pays gas $925 one month security Calumet City 708-288-5358
3 APARTMENTSAVAILABLE NOW - $900 PER MONTH. - 2 beds, 1 bath, live-in kitchen. Private parking. No pets. One month security and rent required. 17701 Commercial Ave in Lansing. Apartment 1W on ground level. Apartments 2W and 2E on second floor. Seniors welcome. Call Winston - 708-251-8266
Lansing, IL, 2bdrm., 1bath, 2ND flr. Seniors welcome. 17710 S. Commercial Street. Includes free heat. gas. appl.. A/C. Private prkg. 1 mon. + sec. Avail/ immediately. $1100. Call Larry 312-4050697
Health/Personals/Misc.
HERNIA REPAIR? Did you recieve the Mesh Patch Between 2018 and the present? Was the patch removed due to complications, you may be entilted to compensation. Attorney Charles Johnson 1-800-535-5727
Vehicles
CLEAN 2000 DODGE INTREPID W/ 3.2 MOTOR, original owner 57k miles $5k CASH ONLY serous buyers only 773 259 0175
SELLING 2008 CHEVY AVEO,GREAT CAR FOR $2,500 GREATWORK CAR. 86,000 miles well maintenance new tire ,brakes serious inquiries Maverick, 708 985 5062!
2008 MAZDA TRIBUTE GRAY SUV. Runs good, rust around wheels. 156k miles. $4,500. 708-510-3366
I’M LOOKING TO BUY A 2017 FORD FUSION HYBRID SE loaded with low mileage no other cars. 219-669-7392
2001 MERCEDES-BENZ ML 320 RUNS GOOD , ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION IN GOOD CONDITION. Little rust on the door panels. Asking price is $2,800 or best offer. 708-606-1523
Pets
Senior with medical problems seeking good loving home for Female Shepard 6 years old. Free. 7083551034 FREE GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES TO FOREVER HOMES! 1 MALE,1 FEMALE. Excellent temperament! House trained with very good trainable natures & perfect for families with children and other pets! Please email me first at: staceymcclelland8@gmail. com and Text (312) 9327651
Garage Sales
MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE! June 27th -29th9AM3PM17213 Kenwood Avenue South Holland, IL
SAT. JUNE 29, 8:00-2:00 PM, 500 ESCANABA, CALUMET CITY MULTIFAMILIES Women’s clothing, women shoes children items, Household items & decor, skis
ESTATE SALE - DISHES, BAKE WARE, SERVING WARE, LINENS, TABLEWARE, CANNING JARS, BEANIE BABIES, LOTS OF CHRISTMAS ITEMS, BEDROOM SETS, KITCHEN SET, TOOLS, ETC.June 27-29, 9am-2pm 80 Arrowhead Thornton 18017 BURNHAM AVE 27-28-29 8-4 PM kitchenware, gaming systems, car parts, tools, dirt bikes, sport motors cycles, fishing equipment, dishes, and electronics adult clothes no early birds, please
18362 LOCUST ST
LANSING CALLING ALL BEADERS!! Friday 28th and Saturday 29th 8am to 4pm. Seed beads, glass pearls, gem stones all bundled into $1 bags. Also findings like ear wires and other charms. For Sale
5 Boxes of Misc, Good for Flea Market $25. Rachel Ray Dishes, 16 pc. new $40. Propane Tank $30 (4) Call 219-402-2214
Hose reel carts. Various sizes made by Suncast. Very good condition. As low as $9 each. Call or text 708-673-9361
Fisher-Price Power Wheels Barbie Jeep. In original box. Excellent condition. Needs battery and charger. $50 Call or text 708-673-9361
Black and Decker electric lawn mower. Great condition. $110 Call or text 708-6739361
Manual push lawn mower. Excellent condition. $35 Call or text 708-673-9361
Large Indoor Steel Dog Cage
48” l x 36”h x 30” w. Cood Cond., $75; 1965 Ladies Schwinn Hollywood Bike. All Original. Rideable, fair to good condition. $90; Leggett & Platt Metal Bed Frame. New, in-box $90 new, asking $30. Galvanized Pipe 9 qty 8’ lengths, 2” $8 ea., 6 qty 6’ lengths, 2” $5 ea. 708-8771228 Please call before 6pm. Men Depends (Real Fit) Grey color, Large/XL Maximum. 182 Count, $75 (brand new in box); Struts (brand new) #746612 Gabriel Struts without springs $30; Washing Machine, Kenwood Elite, $40; Bowling Balls, best offer. All best offer price. 708-7319137
Gas stove, works great. Light beige. $50 - 708-955-4890
protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code! Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777
What to know before ‘reversing’ your retirement
SUBMITTED BY PATRICK ZAMKIN
If you’ve retired, you may have thought you closed the book on one chapter of your life. But what happens if you need to “reverse” your retirement?
Due to higher inflation and rising interest rates, many retirees are taking out more money from their retirement accounts than they had originally anticipated. As a result, some are headed back to the workforce. If you’re thinking of joining them, you’ll need to consider some factors that may affect your finances.
First, if you’ve been taking Social Security, be aware that you could lose some of your benefits if you earn over a certain level, at least until you reach your full retirement age, which is likely between 66 and 67. Specifically, if you are under your full retirement age for the entire year, Social Security will deduct $1 from your benefit payments for every $2 you earn above the annual limit, which, in 2024, is $22,320. In the year you reach your full retirement age, Social Security will deduct $1 in benefits for every $3 you earn above a different limit, which, in 2024, is $59,520. Social Security will only count your earnings up to the month before you reach your full retirement age, at which point your earnings will no longer reduce your benefits, regardless of how much you earn. Also, Social Security will recalculate your benefit amounts to credit you for the months your payments were reduced due to your excess earnings. Social Security also allows you to pay back early benefits received if you withdraw your application within 12 months of starting benefits. This move could help you receive substantially higher benefits at full retirement age.
Your Social Security isn’t the only benefit that could be affected by your earnings. Your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums are
based on your income, so they could rise if you start earning more money. Also, your extra income could push you into a higher tax bracket.
Nonetheless, you can certainly gain some benefits by returning to the working world. Obviously, you’ll be making money that can help you boost your daily cash flow and possibly reduce some debts. But depending on where you work, you might also be able to contribute to a 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan. And regardless of where you work, you’ll be eligible to contribute to an IRA. By putting more money into these accounts, you may well be able to strengthen your financial position during your retirement years. You might also be able to receive some employee benefits, such as group health insurance — which could be particularly valuable if you haven’t yet started receiving Medicare.
In addition to the potential financial advantages of going back to work, you might get some social benefits, too. Many people enjoy the interactions with fellow workers and miss these exchanges when they retire, so a return to the workforce, even if it’s on a part-time basis, may give you an emotional boost.
In the final analysis, you’ll want to weigh the potential costs of going back to work against the possible benefits. There’s no one right answer for everyone, but by looking at all the variables, you should be able to reach a decision that works for you.
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.
ALERT: Indiana Experiencing Emergency Blood Shortage
INDIANAPOLIS – Versiti Blood Center of Indiana has issued an emergency appeal for blood donations due to a dangerously low blood supply. Certain blood types have less than a day’s worth of availability, endangering the lives of local patients. Summer donations have plummeted to critical levels, with over 4,463 appointments missed in the past month alone.
All blood types are needed, with O-positive and O-negative being the most in demand. O-positive is the most common blood type, while O-negative blood is the universal type that can be safely received by all patients in emergencies when the blood type is unknown.
“We know summer is a challenging time for blood donation, and we plan for it every year, but what we see today is dire,” said Dr. Dan Waxman, vice president of transfusion medicine and senior medical director at Versiti. “Patients’ lives are at risk. If you are healthy and able, we are pleading with you to donate blood this week.”
In addition to unfilled appointments and a rise in cancellations and no-shows, Versiti’s partner hospitals have required a significant volume of blood this past month to support organ transplant procedures and other traumas.
“The demand for blood simply does not match the number of donors coming through our doors,” added Waxman. “While we deeply appreciate our loyal donors who consistently show up, it’s important to recognize that about 3 percent of people who are eligible to donate blood actually do. If it’s been a while since your last donation or you’re a first-time donor, we are excited to welcome you.”
What happens if blood is not available for patients?
When the local blood inventory gets as low as it is now, it jeopardizes the health and safety of patients who rely on life-saving blood transfusions. In some cases, hospitals are forced to postpone surgeries or delay critical treatments.
BLANKENBERGER
Mary Lou Blankenberger, nee Bronas, age 71, passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Beloved wife of David Blankenberger. Loving mother to Lisa (John) Burgard and Tracey (Troy) Thompson. Cherished grandmother to Nicole (Emily) Burgard, Courtney Burgard, Kristin Burgard, Audriana (Scott Toomey) Thompson, Melissa (Nikko April) Thompson, Troy (Felica) Thompson Jr., Jessica (Manny Martinez) Thompson, and Zach Thompson; and greatgrandmother to 7 greatgrandchildren. Dear sister to Priscilla Kazmer, Paula (Richard) Mullen and Joyce (late Ron) Miller. Fond aunt to many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parent Willis and Pearl Bronas. Mary will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Visitation to be held on Sunday, June 23, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. until time of Funeral Service at 5:00 p.m. at SmitsSteger Memorial Chapel, 3045 Chicago Rd., Steger, IL 60475. For further, information please contact 708-755-6100 or visit our online guestbook and obituary at www. SMITSFH.com.
SONSIADEK
GUNTY
Robert “Bo” N. Gunty Sr., age 44, of Lynwood, IL, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024. Devoted father of Robert Gunty Jr. and Carmen Gunty. Loving son of Robert H. and Sharon Gunty. Devoted brother of Tori (Justin) Smits and Justin (Amanda) Gunty. Dear uncle to several nephews and nieces, nephew of several aunts and uncles, and cousin to many. Fiancé of Nicole Olejnik. Step-father of Caleb and Brynn. Robert was loved by many and will be missed.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN.
For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www. SMITSFH.com
NORDER
Carol J. Norder, nee Kuiken, age 81, of Highland, IN, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Beloved wife of Raymond Norder. The day of her passing they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
WICKLUND
David Edward Wicklund, age 81, of Walton, IN passed away on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Loving brother of Noel (Tom) Adamek, the late Dan (late Judy) Wicklund and the late Dennis Wicklund. Dear uncle of 7 nephews and 2 nieces. Beloved son of the late Ebert and late Bernice (nee McNichols) Wicklund, David was loved by his family and will be missed. Private family services will be held. For further information, please call 219322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com
LANINGA
Versiti Blood Center of Indiana Issues Emergency Appeal for Blood Donations
Trauma victims from car accidents or shootings are at the highest risk, as their survival often depends on a healthy blood inventory. If these types of cases occur in the coming days, we might not have the blood needed to keep them alive.
Patients undergoing organ transplants and battling cancer, and even mothers in labor, could face treatment delays or complications due to a limited blood supply.
To schedule an appointment to donate blood, call (317) 916-5150 or visit versiti.org. Walk-in donors are also welcome.
Donor center locations:
• INDIANAPOLIS: 3450 N. Meridian St.
• FISHERS: 11005 Allisonville Road
• CARMEL: 726 Adams St., Suite 150
• GREENWOOD: 8739 U.S. 31 South
• TERRE HAUTE: 2021 S. Third St.
• LAFAYETTE: 2200 Elmwood Ave., Suite D-16
Donating blood takes about an hour. Anyone aged 16 or older who is in good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to give. Parental consent is required for donors aged 16 to donate blood. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date.
About Versiti Blood Center of Indiana
More than 90,000 Indiana residents each year give blood through Versiti Blood Center of Indiana, formerly Indiana Blood Center, a non-profit organization founded in 1952 that operates blood donation centers in Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Greenwood, Lafayette and Terre Haute. The center also operates thousands of mobile and community blood drives each year throughout the state. Versiti provides a continuous and safe supply of blood and biological services to more than 95 Indiana hospitals and their patients and beyond.
To learn more, visit versiti.org.
After struggling with Alzheimer’s Disease for many years, Patricia Ann Sonsiadek, age 91, passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 in Merrillville, IN. Having lost her husband, the late Eugene Sonsiadek, earlier in life, Patricia became an independent woman who worked for Norfolk Southern Railroad until her retirement. She enjoyed hosting family holidays with her three children, Catherine Toyama, the late Steven Sonsiadek and the late Julie Sonsiadek, and their families – only succumbing to holiday stress when too many people were” helping” prepare the meal in her small kitchen. She was a navigator on road trips, an animal lover (cats and dogs) and a grandmother. She will be missed by her 6 grandchildren: Ken Toyama, Steven Sonsiadek, Jr., Emi Moreno, Shellee Sonsiadek, Stacee Sonsiadek and Scott Sonsiadek and her 13 great grandchildren. The family will hold a private burial at St. Benedict Cemetery, Crestwood, IL.
Loving mother of Raymond Norder Jr., Deborah (Jeffery) Seibt, and Jeffrey (Jennifer) Norder. Beloved grandmother of Nicolas and Travis Seibt, Savanna, Annabelle and Elianna Norder. Dear sister of Donald (Gail) Kuiken. Preceded in death by her parents Frank and Amelia Kuiken. Carol was an administrative assistant for Dolton School District 149 for many years. She was a member of Emmanuel Reformed Church in Roseland, then Community Reformed Church in Dolton for many years. She was loved by many and will be dearly missed.
Visitation Saturday, June 29, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Burial at Maplewood Historic Cemetery—Crown Point, IN. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Lung Association (https:// www.lung.org/). For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com
John B. Laninga, age 89, of Crown Point, IN went home to his Lord and Savior on Thursday, June 20, 2024. Beloved husband for nearly 69 years (anniversary June 23rd) to Barb Laninga, nee Smit. Loving father of Pamela (Richard) Triezenberg, Susan (late Dr. Timothy) DeBoer, Kathleen (James) Kooy, and Jeffrey (Lynnette) Laninga. Cherished grandfather of 15 grandchildren, 33 greatgrandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Dear brother of the late Jean (late Clarence) Stegenga. Preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Henrietta Laninga. John was a United States Army and Navy Veteran. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed.
A funeral service will be held Monday, June 24, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. at Crown Point Christian Reformed Church, 909 E. Greenwood Ave. Crown Point, IN with Rev. Fred DeJong officiating. A visitation will be held after the service from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Crown Point CRC. Interment Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery –Elwood, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to Elim Christian Services (www. elimcs.org) or a Christian school of your choice. For further information please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online guestbook and obituary at www. SMITSFH.com
Real Estate Questions & Answers
CATHY & JIM HIGGINS
Question: When we sell are home, what should we do with our pets? Do buyers mind pets around?
Answer: Buyers and their agents need to feel welcome to look at the property at their leisure without dangers or distractions. So, while you adore your sweet rescue dog, he could turn territorial, barking and growling at potential homebuyers. And it could cost you the opportunity to sell your home.
Think of buyers as guests and work to make them feel comfortable as they consider your home for purchase. If you have a protective dog or one that isn’t well-trained, remove him before the showing.
If you must leave the dog at home, don’t expect the Realtor to handle your dog. This is where crate-training can be a huge advantage. At least your dog is secured and more inclined to relax while your home is being shown.
Do not leave your dog loose in the backyard. Not only does the buyer not have access to part of the property, but your dog could bark so much that it drives the buyer out of the house. Also, don’t leave your dog at the neighbor’s. It’s just as bad if the buyer believes a noisy dog lives next door.
House cats can also repel buyers. Owners
get used to the odors of cat boxes and fishy foods, but these odors could be offensive to buyers who don’t have cats.
Birds are beautiful but can be intimidating and dangerous. Imagine a buyer bringing small children who can’t resist sticking their fingers in the cage and quickly get rewarded with a nasty bite from a very strong beak.
When you’re selling a home, keep in mind that the first two weeks on the market are crucial. That’s the time you want your home to be pristine and move-in ready. You don’t want any noise, smells or stains that could put buyers off.
Sell your home faster and for more money by making your home as inviting and accessible as possible, so that buyers have no barriers to overcome. Accessibility to your home is just as important as price, condition and location.
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 Real Estate Journal: www. Higginshousechat.blogspot.com
Comptroller Nieshalla Welcomes Review of Indiana Pension Fund Manager to Ensure FiduciaryOnly Approach
STATEHOUSE – State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla, serving as a board member of the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS), welcomes a report to the Board from State Treasurer Daniel Elliot on fund manager BlackRock, Inc. Nieshalla says the report offers needed insights into the company’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing policies and how they are incorporating non-financial factors in their investment decisions. The Treasurer’s findings were reported to the Board as required under state law enacted in 2023.
“We need fund manager partners who balance fiduciary duty with market risks to maximize return rather than prioritizing non-financial factors such as social, political and ideological interests,” Nieshalla stated. “As a board, we must review our relationship with BlackRock and its investing policies as a whole.”
Nieshalla’s comments follow the June 21, 2024 Board meeting where the State Treasurer presented information that BlackRock engages in the prioritization of ESG factors over acting in the best interest of the beneficiaries and their investment returns. The report refers to the company’s Securities and Exchange Commission public filing that says, “management and reputational risks related to ESG engagement
may cause revenue and earnings to decline.”
Nieshalla added, “I appreciate the efforts of our State Treasurer for his research and reporting and for INPRS’ contribution to our due diligence as a board.”
In accordance with Indiana statute, the next step requires the Board to consider other fund managers not engaged in prioritizing ESG factors that are comparable in financial performance to ensure the Board’s fiduciary duty to beneficiaries. The Board has 180 days to fulfill this duty.
Elise M. Nieshalla is the Indiana State Comptroller, fulfilling the duties of the Constitutional Office of State Auditor. Comptroller Nieshalla is committed to serving our state and local governments by upholding the highest standards of fiscal responsibility in the provision of accurate accounting and reporting of state funds, disbursement of tax revenues to local units of government, payment of Indiana’s employees and vendors, administration of the state’s deferred compensation plan and delivering financial information through the Indiana Transparency Portal.
Follow Indiana State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla on Facebook or on Twitter @ IndianaComp
State highway shootings decline as critics sue over ‘dragnet surveillance’
By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois jnowicki@capitolnewsillinois.com
Illinois State Police say an automated license plate reader program has helped the agency identify witnesses or suspects in 82 percent of highway shooting cases this year, including all eight that resulted in a death.
But as the state looks to further expand its network of more than 400 cameras this year, it faces a lawsuit accusing ISP of operating “a system of dragnet surveillance” by using the cameras to monitor all traffic that passes them.
The fiscal year 2025 state budget that lawmakers approved last month includes $7 million in new funding for the technology as well as $2.5 million reappropriated from a previous year.
The cameras are constantly monitoring the highways where they are installed, collecting images, time and location data on hundreds of millions of vehicles each year. In May alone, the cameras captured 1.4 million “hits,” or instances in which a pictured license plate matched one in a law enforcement database for “hot” vehicles – such as stolen cars or those connected to a crime. That was out of 215 million recorded “detections” in May, which includes any instance of a vehicle image being stored with date and time data.
The libertarian legal group Liberty Justice Center contends the constant nature of that surveillance violates the rights of two Cook County residents named as plaintiffs in their lawsuit filed May 30.
The group is the same one that successfully sued to block implementation of a state law that would have prevented certain General Assembly candidates who didn’t run in the March primary from getting on the November ballot. It was also behind the lawsuit that ultimately resulted in the U.S. Supreme Court striking down “fair share” union dues in 2018.
“Defendants are tracking anyone who drives to work in Cook County – or to school, or a grocery store, or a doctor’s office, or a pharmacy, or a political rally, or a romantic encounter, or family gathering – every day, without any reason to suspect anyone of anything, and are holding onto those whereabouts just in case they decide in the future that some citizen might be an appropriate target of law enforcement,” the lawsuit reads.
The lawsuit contends the program violates the plaintiffs’ search, seizure and due process rights under the 4th and 14th amendments to the U.S. Constitution. It seeks to end the state’s operation of the license plate reader program and to provide specific protections for the two named plaintiffs.
A lawyer for the Liberty Justice Center told Capitol News Illinois the plan is to seek a temporary injunction against the surveillance program as the full case progresses.
About three weeks after the lawsuit was filed in federal court in the Northern District of Illinois, ISP sent a news release touting the efficacy of the program.
Highway shootings had been on the rise before the legislature authorized and provided funding for automated license plate readers, or ALPRs, in Cook County. There were 51 such shootings in 2019, 147 in 2020 and 310 in
2021, according to Illinois State Police data. That dropped to 189 in 2022 and 129 in 2023, with 42 recorded through mid-June in 2024 –a 42 percent decline through the same period last year. The cameras were used in at least 260 investigations this year, according to ISP.
“The use of automated license plate readers has been a game changer in investigating interstate shootings, as well as vehicular hijackings and thefts,” ISP Director Brendan Kelly said in the Tuesday news release. “They provide us vital leads for our investigation, allowing us to track the events immediately leading up to and following the shootings to identify the vehicle involved.”
Read more: Capitol Briefs: State Police report fewer deaths on Illinois highways in 2023 State police can review images instantly upon report of a shooting or other incident, and once a suspect vehicle is identified, law enforcement can set the system to alert them if that vehicle is spotted on an ALPR.
Under law, the cameras can be used in the investigations of offenses involving vehicular hijackings, terrorism, motor vehicle theft, or any forcible felony, which includes such crimes as murder and firearms offenses. Cameras can also be used for monitoring roadway conditions for safety purposes.
The law, however, prohibits officers from using footage to enforce “petty offenses,” such as speeding.
ISP said their policy is to keep data collected by the cameras for 90 days.
“That’s kind of our big concern is the historical collection and aggregation of all the data,” Reilly Stephens, a Liberty Justice Center attorney, told Capitol News Illinois. “If you only have 24 hours of data, maybe it’s a different case.”
There’s 430 such cameras throughout the state, including 340 in Cook County, 78 in St. Clair County and four each in Champaign, Morgan and Winnebago counties.
Later this year, ISP plans to add cameras in Macon, Madison, Peoria, Bureau, Lake and Winnebago counties. ISP said it could also “potentially” add cameras in Boone, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Henry, Kane, Kendall, LaSalle, McHenry, Rock Island, Sangamon, and Will counties, as well as on DuSable-Lake Shore Drive in Chicago.
The law creating the camera program passed in 2020 with a focus on Chicago, but a 2022 expansion covered another 6,000-plus miles of roadway outside of Cook County. That move was widely supported in the legislature, although some raised civil liberty concerns about broad definitions in the law.
Members of both parties expressed concern that the cameras could be used to profile drivers and that individuals were not allowed to request their own data through the Freedom of Information Act.
Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.
