Seggebruch leads Spartans, SJO falls to St. Thomas More in regional title match

OAKWOOD – The St. Joseph-Ogden (18-19) Spartans faced a formidable opponent in the St. Thomas More Sabers during the Oakwood Regional Championship on Thursday night, ultimately falling in straight sets, 25-18, 25-15. The loss marked the end of the season for the Spartans, whose relentless efforts came up short against a disciplined and polished Sabers team that finished second in the Illini Prairie Conference.

The Sabers (33-4), led by a balanced offense and impenetrable defense, established dominance early in the first set. Despite SJO's strong efforts, which included 13 kills in the opener, they struggled to maintain momentum.

Senior Ava Seggebruch spearheaded the Spartans' offense, tallying six kills and contributing two blocks and five digs. The Spartans aimed to turn the tide after the initial setback, but St. Thomas More's cohesive play kept SJO on the defensive in the second set.

Fellow senior Reese Wheatley joined Seggebruch in leading the defensive efforts, contributing the Spartans’ two blocks, while Ally Schmitz and Tinley Ideus added offensive depth with five and four kills, respectively. Ideus also showcased her defensive agility, totaling 10 digs, while Thea Smith supported with four saves. x

Setter Emma McKinney delivered 16 assists, keeping the offense in motion as SJO fought to stay within striking distance of the Sabers.

This year's St. Joseph-Ogden varsity squad was made up of Katie Ericksen, Kylie Barrowman, Timera Blackburn-Kelley, Tinley Ideus, Ally Schmitz, Amelia Huckstadt, Thea Smith, Addison Brooks, Hadley McDonald, Emma McKinney, Lillian Ahart, Adelyn Childers, Reese Wheatley, Emma Wells, Ava Midkiff, Ava Seggebruch, Vivian Smith, McKenzie Atwood, Adeline Stevens, Alivia Learned, Kayla Osterbur, Lexie Barrowman, and Emerson Williams.

St. Thomas More advances to the Monticello section semifinal on Tuesday against Maroa-Forsyth.


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Keywords: St. Joseph-Ogden volleyball, Oakwood regional championship, high school volleyball playoffs, St. Thomas More volleyball, SJO Spartans volleyball

Voting in Illinois: Ensuring election integrity and voting security

URBANA - As election season approaches, understanding the voting process in Illinois is crucial for making informed choices. The state takes significant measures to ensure that voting and ballot counting systems are secure, reliable, and transparent.

Election officials in Illinois regularly conduct tests on voting and ballot counting machines, performing “logic and accuracy” tests to confirm that votes for every candidate and issue on the ballot are counted correctly. These tests are standard practice across almost all states, aimed at preserving the integrity of the electoral process.

In Illinois, all voting systems must be certified by the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) or tested by an EAC-accredited Voting System Test Laboratory before use. The state's ballot handling procedures are designed to protect against both intentional and unintentional ballot destruction, ensuring the integrity of both mail-in and in-person voting.


Prior to and following elections, Illinois conducts thorough testing of voting equipment and ballot counting processes, which are open for public observation. Post-election audits, including risk-limiting audits, are also performed to verify that vote counts are accurate, reinforcing public trust in the results.

"Election officials implement ballot processing and tabulation safeguards designed to ensure each ballot cast in the election can be correctly counted," explained Becky Simon, President of the League of Women Voters of Illinois. "These safeguards include chain of custody procedures, auditable logging requirements, and canvass processes. Illinois safeguards mail ballots by verifying signatures, tracking barcodes, and setting clear chains of custody for all ballots."

Amidst these safeguards, voters should remain vigilant against false claims regarding election results. Disinformation can spread quickly, often fueled by individuals seeking to undermine confidence in the democratic process. If you encounter misleading information online, you can report it at reportdisinfo.org. It is essential to respect all votes cast, regardless of the outcome.

Every election, organizations like the League of Women Voters play a pivotal role in equipping voters with essential information. By sponsoring candidate forums and providing resources like IllinoisVoterGuide.org, they help ensure that voters are prepared to make their voices heard.

In the lead-up to elections, it’s common for voters to receive calls and texts from political groups, urging them to support specific candidates or measures. However, it is important to be aware of potential scams that exploit these tactics. Here are some red flags to watch for:

  • Be cautious if a caller or texter requests personal information, such as your Social Security number. They may falsely claim you can vote early by phone or fix nonexistent errors in your voter registration.
  • Avoid sharing credit card or financial information over the phone, especially if the caller offers seemingly free gifts in exchange for participation in surveys.
  • If asked to donate over the phone, verify the legitimacy of the request by asking for a website where you can find more information.

Being informed and vigilant is key to participating in a secure electoral process. As voters in Illinois prepare for the upcoming elections, knowing how to navigate the system and protect oneself against misinformation and scams is more important than ever.


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Keywords: Voting in Illinois, Election integrity, Ballot counting process, Voter information, Election disinformation, Protect against election scams

Affordable storage ideas for small apartments, clever hacks to make more space

Photo: Michal Jarmoluk/Pixabay

SNS - Living in a small apartment or home can be challenging, especially when it comes storage space. However, you can maximize your space affordably with creativity and clever solutions. Here are some affordable storage hacks tailored for every room in your home, helping you declutter and organize efficiently with style.

The Benefits of Decluttering
Another crucial aspect of maximizing space in small apartments is decluttering. Regularly assess your belongings and determine what you truly need. That can be a liberating process that frees up physical space and creates a more peaceful living environment. Consider implementing the "one in, one out" rule: for every new item you bring into your home, remove an old one. This practice helps maintain order and prevents accumulation. Additionally, donating items you no longer use can benefit others in your community while satisfying you with a clean, organized apartment. By embracing a minimalist mindset, you can simplify your living space and make it more enjoyable.

Living Room Affordable Storage Hacks
The living room is often the heart of the home, but it can also become a clutter magnet. One effective way to create more storage is by using multi-functional furniture. Consider investing in a coffee table that doubles as a storage unit or an ottoman with hidden compartments. These pieces serve a purpose and help keep your space tidy. Wall-mounted shelves are another great option for the living room. They can display books and decorative items while freeing up floor space. Additionally, consider using decorative baskets or bins to store remote controls, magazines, and other small items. That keeps your living room organized and visually appealing.

Kitchen Storage Hacks
Kitchens in small apartments can feel cramped, but there are plenty of affordable storage hacks to make your small kitchen more functional. Start by utilizing vertical space with wall-mounted racks for pots and pans. That saves cabinet space and adds a rustic charm to your kitchen. Use drawer organizers to keep utensils and kitchen tools tidy. Consider installing a magnetic strip for knives to free up drawer space and enhance safety. Additionally, clear bins in your pantry can help group similar items, making it easier to find what you need.


college apartment bedroom
Maximize your living space in small apartments by using under-bed storage options. Buy a ready made solution or create your own.

Photo: StockSnap/Pixabay

Small Bedroom Storage Hacks
Maximizing space is essential to creating a serene environment when organizing a small bedroom. Begin with under-bed storage solutions. Use rolling bins or vacuum-sealed bags to store off-season clothing, shoes, or extra bedding. That is a perfect way to keep your bedroom uncluttered. At the same time, invest in furniture with built-in storage, like a bed frame with drawers or a bench with a hidden compartment. Also, consider using hanging organizers on the back of your closet door for accessories or shoes, making everything easy to find while keeping your closet neat.

Bathroom Storage Hacks
Bathrooms can quickly become overcrowded, but there are many ways to organize this small space. Use tiered shelves or corner caddies to maximize vertical space. These can hold toiletries, towels, or cleaning supplies without wasting valuable floor space. Over-the-toilet shelving is another clever storage hack. This area is often underutilized, so adding shelves can create extra storage for towels and decorative items. Use baskets or bins under the sink to group similar items, keeping your bathroom organized and functional. These storage ideas allow you to turn your small bathroom into a spa.


Home office for professionals
Creative storage solutions can make a small home office seem more spacious.

Photo: Michael Burrows/PEXELS

Office Area Storage Hacks
Creating a productive home office in a small apartment can be challenging, but effective storage solutions can help. Use vertical file organizers to keep important documents in order while freeing up desk space. Wall-mounted shelves can also display books, plants, or office supplies. Consider a desk with built-in drawers for additional storage, keeping your workspace clutter-free. Utilize a pegboard to hang tools or supplies, allowing easy access and organization. These hacks can transform your home office into a functional and inspiring workspace.

Dining Area Storage Hacks
Maximizing space is key in small dining areas. Look for a dining table with built-in storage or a foldable option that can be tucked away when unused. Use wall-mounted shelves to display dishes or decorative items, keeping the table clear. Consider adding a rolling cart for extra storage and serving space. They can be easily moved and hold everything from utensils to beverages. Decorative baskets can also serve as stylish storage for items like napkins or tablecloths, keeping your dining area organized.

Seasonal Storage Solutions
Managing seasonal items can be challenging in a small apartment. To tackle this, consider implementing a seasonal storage solution. Use vacuum-sealed bags to compress off-season clothing, blankets, or holiday decorations, allowing you to store them compactly. Designate a specific area for seasonal items, whether a closet or storage bin and switch items out as the seasons change. That keeps your apartment organized and makes it easier to access items when needed.

Consider Renting Storage Units
For those needing additional space, renting a storage unit can be affordable. Many facilities offer various sizes of units, allowing you to choose one that fits your needs and budget. Renting a storage unit can be especially beneficial for keeping seasonal items, sports equipment, or furniture you don’t use daily. While costs vary based on location and unit size, many storage facilities offer promotions or discounts for long-term rentals, making it a cost-effective option. Additionally, having a separate storage space can help reduce clutter in your apartment, leading to a more organized living environment.

Affordable Storage Hacks for Small Apartments
Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean sacrificing organization or style. With these affordable storage hacks for every room in your home, you can maximize your space and create a comfortable, clutter-free environment. From utilizing vertical space to investing in multi-functional furniture, plenty of strategies exist to make the most of your home. By implementing these ideas, you’ll find that your small apartment can be stylish and practical, proving that great things come in small packages.


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Keywords: Affordable storage Hacks, Creative home storage space idea, Apartment storage ideas, Storage ideas for college students

Richardson leads Comet Cross Country team at Tuscola Regionals

TUSCOLA - The Oakwood Comets girls cross country team concluded their regional campaign with a fifth-place finish at the IHSA regional meet held at Wimple Park last Saturday. The team advanced to Saturday's sectional meet at Lake Land College in Mattoon.

All five scoring runners for Oakwood achieved PRs at the regional meet. Sophomore Callie Richardson led the charge, securing a seventh-place finish with a time of 18:37.25, a nearly 10-second improvement over her previous best.

Juniors Bracie Hird (20:59.99) and Taylor Wells (21:00.51) followed closely, placing 27th and 28th respectively. Hird shaved over 15 seconds off her previous best, while Wells, in only her third varsity race, continued her impressive development. Sophomores Taylor Remole (21:11.96) and junior Zoe Moudy (23:01.73) rounded out the scoring five, both achieving significant PRs. Moudy's improvement was particularly noteworthy, dropping over six minutes from her season debut.

The team's combined score of 124 points placed them behind regional powerhouses Unity (40 points), St. Joseph-Ogden (70 points), Paxton-Buckley-Loda (94 points), and Urbana University (106 points).

The Comets turn their attention to Saturday's IHSA Class 1A Sectional meet at Lake Land College. While the competition will be fierce, the team's recent performance suggests they are well-positioned to make a strong showing to qualify for the state meet at Detweiller Park in Peoria on November 9.


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Keywords: Oakwood Comets cross country, IHSA regional meet, Class 1A Sectional, Detweiller Park, personal records, state meet qualification.

St. Joseph-Ogden outlast Unity in three-set battle to secure regional title berth

Emma McKinney (left) and Reese Wheatley celebrate a point for the St. Joseph-Ogden volleyball team in their home match against Maroa-Forsyth. McKinney was credit with 23 assists and led the team in digs in SJO's regional semifinal against Unity on Tuesday.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

OAKWOOD - In a high-stakes, do or stay home, semifinal showdown, St. Joseph-Ogden eked out a three-set win over Unity on Tuesday at the Oakwood Regional, outscoring the Rockets 25-17, 19-25, 25-16 to secure their spot in Thursday’s regional title game against St. Thomas More. Despite Unity's strong season-ending push, the Spartans’ balanced attack and relentless defense proved decisive.

St. Joseph-Ogden (18-18), who came into the match with momentum from a two-game win streak, saw strong play from outside hitter Tinley Ideus leading the offense, forcing Unity’s defense to work overtime. Ideus, a standout for SJO, amassed 10 kills and added 10 digs, demonstrating her versatility and impact on both sides of the ball. Senior Ava Seggebruch complemented Ideus with seven kills and 10 digs.

Unity, however, did not go down easily. After falling in the first set, the Rockets adjusted their defensive strategy. Their efforts paid off in the second set, where they clawed back, winning, 25-19. Capitalizing on their defensive stands and taking advantage of Spartan errors, Unity found its footing to force a third set.

But the Spartans regrouped for the final frame, tightening up defensively and refocusing on their attack. Junior Emma McKinney played a critical role as a setter, tallying 23 assists for the evening and orchestrated an offense that saw contributions from multiple hitters. Ally Schmitz added four kills and nine digs, while Addi Childers and Reese Wheatley, who led in team blocks with two, each chipped in two kills, ensuring that SJO’s attack remained dynamic and unpredictable.


Ava Seggebruch
Ava Seggebruch pass the ball during SJO's home match against Maroa-Forsyth. The Spartans face a formidable St. Thomas More squad in their regional title match.

Defensively, Katie Erickson anchored the back row for the Spartans, tallying nine digs and serving two aces to keep the Rockets off balance. Ultimately SJO sealed their advance, winning the set with a 25-16 win.

Tuesday’s victory was particularly sweet for St. Joseph-Ogden, as Unity had previously bested them in straight sets, 25-23, 25-18, on September 24. This time, with a title game on the line, the Spartans showed marked improvement in their attack and defensive consistency, areas that had hampered them in the previous encounter. The win sends St. Joseph-Ogden to Thursday's regional final against a formidable opponent in St. Thomas More, who triumphed over Bismarck-Henning-Rossville-Alvin in their own semifinal matchup.

The Sabers will present a stiff challenge for SJO, having defeated the Spartans convincingly, 25-10, 25-12, earlier in the season. However, with renewed confidence and a balanced lineup, the Spartans look ready to give St. Thomas More a tougher contest this time around. Thursday’s title game, set for 6 p.m., will likely be an intense matchup as the Spartans seek their first regional title since their 2022 three-set win over BHRA.


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Editor's correction: In our original story, we wrote that SJO had not won a regional title since "their 2019 trip to the Class 2A Final Four". That was incorrect. The article has been updated to reflect the Spartans won their most recent title in 2022 at the Bismarck-Henning-Rossville-Alvin regional.
Keywords: St. Joseph-Ogden volleyball, Unity Rockets, Oakwood Regional volleyball, Tinley Ideus, Ava Seggebruch, St. Thomas More volleyball, Illinois high school volleyball playoffs

Stress-free Thanksgiving tips for those short on time this holiday season

StatePoint - While gathering for Thanksgiving is intended to be a joyous occasion, everyone who has hosted the feast knows it can also come with a lot of stress, and expenses.

The good news is that whether you’re a Gen Z-er hosting your first Friendsgiving on a budget or you’re a busy family preparing for guests, there is a lot to be thankful for this year.

That’s because this holiday season, Sam’s Club’s private brand Member’s Mark is unveiling an innovative pre-cooked Thanksgiving meal that is ready to serve in under two hours, priced under $100 for up to 10 people and available to be delivered. Crafted with mindfully made premium ingredients, the meal offers convenience without compromising quality, ensuring a stress-free, memorable and delicious Thanksgiving. Here are the traditional Thanksgiving favorites that the meal includes:

    • Member’s Mark Smoked Turkey

    • Member’s Mark Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes

    • Member’s Mark Pumpkin Pie

    • Member’s Mark Sweet Potato Mash

    • Member’s Mark Brussels Sprouts

    • Member’s Mark Yeast Dinner Rolls

    • Member’s Mark Macaroni and Cheese

    • Member’s Mark Cranberry Crunch Salad

Along with purchasing a convenient Thanksgiving meal, here are a few additional ways to eliminate stress around holiday prep:

1. Start Early: Get your shopping and other hosting tasks done in advance. For example, don’t wait until Thanksgiving Day to tidy up your home. Doing a deep clean in advance can help ensure your kitchen is organized and ready for the big day, and that guests feel comfortable and welcomed. Set the table and do any decorating you have planned the evening beforehand.

2. Save on Festive Flair: You can further reduce costs by going DIY with items like centerpieces and seasonal wreaths, or by shopping with retailers offering great value, such as Sam’s Club, which provides solutions for flowers, décor, wine and other hosting essentials.

3. Rely on Friends and Family: Even if you have the main meal covered, it’s still nice to get a little help from guests, who will likely ask if they can bring something. Don’t be shy about asking them to contribute an appetizer or beverage.

For more information on the Member’s Mark Holiday Meal, visit samsclub.com.

By eliminating holiday hassles, you can focus on what really matters, giving thanks and spending time with the people you care about.

Franzen leads Spartan girls at regional cross country meet, next stop sectionals for SJO

TUSCOLA - St. Joseph-Ogden’s girls’ cross-country team secured a second-place finish at the Tuscola Regional on Saturday at Wimple Park, earning a spot in the upcoming sectional meet at Lakeland College. Senior standout Savanna Franzen led the Spartans, placing fourth overall with a time of 18:11.90. Her strong performance continued a season that saw her receive an offer to run at Eastern Illinois University.

Franzen was supported by two standout freshmen, Grace Bressner and Tessa Walker, who both ran career-best times. Bressner finished sixth with a time of 18:29.91, while Walker placed eighth, clocking in at 19:09.89. Their impressive performances highlight the team's youthful depth, which has bolstered St. Joseph-Ogden’s success this season.

Sophomore Abigail Bello also set a personal record, finishing 19th with a time of 20:19.70, further helping the Spartans secure their second-place team finish. Senior Sydney Steinbach rounded out the team’s scoring, placing 42nd with a time of 22:22.94.

Unity High School claimed the team title with 40 points, led by individual champion Kate Foltz, who dominated the race with a time of 16:02.82. Unity’s Emily Decker and Mackenzie Pound finished second and third, respectively, helping secure the top spot. St. Joseph-Ogden followed in second with 70 points, while Paxton-Buckley-Loda came in third with 94 points.

Franzen’s leadership, combined with the rapid development of Bressner and Walker, has provided St. Joseph-Ogden with a strong mix of experience and youth. Heading into the Cumberland Sectional next weekend, the Spartans will rely on this balance to compete for a state meet berth.

The competition at Lakeland College will be fierce, with Unity once again looking like the team to beat. However, if Franzen continues her strong season and the team’s younger runners build on their regional performances, St. Joseph-Ogden is well-positioned for success.

St. Joseph-Ogden will aim to extend their season at the sectional meet, with a potential return to Detweiller Park for the state championships.


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St. Joseph-Ogden cross country, Tuscola Regional cross country meet, Savanna Franzen cross country, Lakeland College sectional cross country


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