Urbana Park District Toddler Art Play Group starts tomorrow

URBANA - The Urbana Park District is hosting a free event for toddlers at the Phillips Recreation Center at 505 W. Stoughton tomorrow between 9 - 11 a.m.

The Toddler Art Play Group is for children ages one to four. Children must be accompanied by a parent or adult. Participants can show up at any time. Each session will explore and create various art projects.

The group is an opportunity for parents and children to socialize, network with others, and make new friends.

The group will meet on seven other dates through April. The next group will meet on January 25.

No registration is needed. For more information, call (217) 367-1544 or visit the UPD website here.

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Hospital recommends virtual visits due current Covid spike and rise of RSV

by Matt Sheehan
OSF Healthcare
As many viruses continue to make the rounds in our communities, it is paramount to monitor your symptoms and know when the right time is to seek medical care in person.

PEORIA - OSF HealthCare hospitals, clinics, and emergency departments across the state continue to see a big influx of people seeking care. The increase in patients in waiting rooms can lead to elevated exposure of germs and viruses, plus longer wait times.

As many viruses continue to make the rounds in our communities, it is paramount to monitor your symptoms and know when the right time is to seek medical care in person. Sarah Overton, the Chief Nursing Officer for OSF Medical Group, Home Care and Employee Health, stresses the importance of virtual care when your symptoms are mild.

“That way we’re not exposing you to anyone in the public and you’re not exposing the health care worker to illness,” Overton says. “Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in health care worker illness where our nurses and doctors have to stay home because they are being exposed to illness.”

Photo: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Hospitals across the state and in the OSF Ministry network have been seeing a spike in COVID-19 patients. If you suspect you have COVID-19 but your symptoms are mild, take an at-home COVID-19 test.

The federal government has another stockpile of at-home tests that are free to order on COVID.gov. Every household can receive four free rapid tests. Dr. Brian Curtis, Vice President of Clinical Specialty Services with OSF HealthCare, says taking tests at home will help free up space at medical facilities.

“Coming in just to get tested takes up spots for the people that are really sick or are high-risk,” Dr. Curtis says.

“The Emergency Room is reserved for those true emergencies,” Overton adds. “We have patients that have heart attacks and lung issues with their COPD. Additional patients overflowing the Emergency Room takes away precious time from assessing those patients who shouldn’t be exposed to those viruses while being in our waiting rooms.”

But COVID-19 isn’t the only virus making the rounds in our communities right now. Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and others are being seen often as well. So how can we stop the spread of viruses?

· Stay home when you aren’t feeling well.

· Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer regularly.

· Cough or sneeze into your elbow.

· Wipe down high-touch surfaces with disinfectant wipes.

· Don’t share glasses or silverware with others.

· Receive the flu shot.

For treating mild symptoms at home, Dr. Curtis offers some guidance for using over-the-counter options.

“You can take Tylenol or Motrin for fevers and aches. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest,” Dr. Curtis says.

Overton says to make sure you read the labels on any over-the-counter medication you buy. If you have any questions, you can ask a retail pharmacist, or send a message through MyChart to your OSF care team.

When is the right time to be seen?

“If you have a super deep cough that’s hanging on for quite a while or have a fever that lasts for several days,” Overton says. “Or if you have high-risk factors and may benefit from some of our medications for COVID, like Paxlovid, which are readily available in our retail pharmacy locations. We also have COVID-19 boosters able to be administered in our primary care offices.”

“There is a medication for influenza, but if you have a mild case, you’ll have more side effects from the medication than you are having from influenza itself. As far as RSV goes, there’s really no treatment for it except for supportive care.”

If you are sick and plan to visit a medical facility, please cover your face with a mask to decrease exposure to the health care workers.

Colds and viruses tend to last one to two weeks. If your symptoms are more serious or linger on much longer than that, reach out to your primary care team and schedule an appointment. You can also consider an in-person or virtual visit to OSF OnCall Urgent Care. A virtual visit is available 24/7.

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Turn your bathroom into a spa-inspired oasis

Photo: BPT

BPT - A rapidly growing number of homeowners want their bathroom to be a sanctuary for relaxation and self-care, so it's no wonder that the bathroom redo has become one of the most popular renovation projects. A recent survey from Houzz showed that one in five homeowners (22%) enlarge the primary or en suite bathroom during a renovation. And with the extra space, more than three in five homeowners (61%) increase the size of their shower. Transforming your bathroom into a spa-inspired retreat will not only impact your overall well-being and comfort but can also boost the value of your home.

The design team at Wilsonart, an industry leader in engineered surfaces, offers these five tips to consider when expanding and enhancing your shower space:

1. Set a realistic budget

Enlarging the size of your shower space is an investment. Prior to getting started, set a realistic budget that includes not only the construction costs but also the cost of materials such as the shower surround surface, fixtures, floor tiles and other design elements. It's also smart to have a contingency fund ready for unforeseen expenses that are sure to pop up along the way. And don't underestimate the power of DIY when it comes to cost-efficiency. If you are handy with tools and willing to learn, there may be certain aspects of a bathroom renovation that you can tackle yourself. Taking on tasks like painting or even assembling fixtures can significantly reduce labor expenses.

2. Choose the right materials

Selecting the right materials is key for both functionality and style. For shower surrounds, select a surface with style that will stand the test of time and fit your lifestyle needs. An on-trend option like the Wetwall™ Waterproof Wall Panel System makes it easy to transform bathrooms and create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end designs without disruptive demolitions. Ideal for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls and cladding, the easy-to-clean, grout-free system features tongue-and-groove panels that can be installed in as little as 2.5 hours and do not require special tools. The system is simple to maintain and features a patented, waterproof core that offers antimicrobial protection that inhibits the growth of stain- and odor-causing mold and mildew. Inspired by the beauty of nature, the two latest designs to join the collection, Tuscany Marble and Darlington Cherry, can add a high-impact, bold statement to any bathroom, without breaking your budget.

3. Invest in quality fixtures and features

Give your new shower space the quality fixtures and features it deserves. Adding simple luxuries like a rainfall shower head or built-in shower seat will help turn any bathroom into a sanctuary. Today's on-trend fixture finishes include matte black, aged bronze and brass, all of which are sure to add a touch of elegance while perfectly complementing your surface selections. While investing in high-quality bathroom accessories may add to your renovation's bottom line, it can actually save you money in the long run since cheaper fixtures tend to be more prone to breaking or wearing out.

4. Maximize natural light

Incorporating natural light into the bathroom can help enhance the room's overall aesthetic and make the space feel larger. Consider adding a window or a skylight strategically placed to maintain privacy, while allowing natural light to enter the room. This extra light can enhance your mood while also saving money on electricity bills.

5. Incorporate smart storage solutions

Having an organized shower can help streamline your morning routine while maintaining the visual appeal of the bathroom. Incorporating built-in storage niches helps create an elevated design aesthetic and optimizes convenience. The Wilsonart® Bath and Shower Accessories Niche collection is compatible with the Wetwall system and features sleek and functional recessed shelving for holding shampoo, soap and other shower accessories. Not only do these built-in bathroom storage ideas maximize square footage, but they also make a strong design statement.

Transforming your shower can take your entire bathroom to the next level and create a tranquil place to start and end your day.

For more bath inspiration and information, visit https://www.wetwall.com/.

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Unity Junior High School second-quarter High Honor Roll


Unity Junior High School announced the names of students who achieved high honor roll status during the second quarter. Congratulations to all the students who earned the requisite grade point to qualify for recognition during this period.


6th Grade High Honor Roll

Maylie Rose Bates
Rya Jolee Bialeschki
Nora Kristina Blanchard
Lydia Grace Crowe
Kylee Paulette Cunningham
Elizabeth Irene Davidson
Bronson Edwin Davis
Savannah Jo Drewes
Quentin Xavier Dykeman
Beau Richard Eisenmenger
Tinsley Layne Elliott
Alarik Byrum Ellison
Cooper Alexander Fairbanks
Nadia Grace Fairbanks
Hayden Marie Gabbard
Lena Anne Guild Borchers
Natalie May Gumbel-Paeth
Jessica Marie Hamilton
Harper Quinn Harris
Mason James Holladay
Gabriel Heinrich Jahnel
Allie Rose Kamradt
Molly Kathryn Lydia Kleiss
John Isaac "Isaac" Leaman
Adelyn Jolene Maxwell
Finn Alexander Merkle
Ashley Ann Mumm
Raelyn Marie Prosser
Jordan William Pruitt
Avery Elizabeth Remole
Riker Alan Rogers
Camdon Levi Schmid
Nora Julianna Shields
Drake Alan Siuts
Cashtyn Ryder Sutherland
Owen Robert Vasey
William Ross Wetherell
Alexis LeAnn Wolken
Alivia RaeLyn Wolken
Brendan Kurtis Zerrusen


7th Grade High Honor Roll

Kelsey Marie Adcock
Kenny Wayne Adcock
Lilly Annabelle Bailes
Brooklyn Blair Bates
Ethan Earl Bent
Katherine Elaine Berkey
Konnor Lewis Bletscher
Kale Boden Cowan
Trevor Daniel Coy
Alec Joseph Daly
McKenzie Lynn Deakin
Emma Nicole Denney
Steven Gambill
Amelia Marie Good
Hayden Bradley Grussing
Kynedy Ashlynn Hoel
Samuel Bentley Hollett
Alivia Krall
Adeline Marie Marinelli
Lilly Madelyn Meharry
Tatum Faith Meharry
Jacklynn Kay Alexandra Moore
Kelvin Justus Moose
Holden William ONeill
Marley Rae Parks
Carolina Maria Pagaduan Popovics
Luc Sandor Marcelo Popovics
Maxwell Douglas Powers
Marina Ray Price
Maya Alexis Rawdin
Bella Rose Robbins
Madelyn Olivia Roth-Robertson
Skylar Grace Savona
Sophia Isabella Schuckman
Austin David Shafer
Vivian Rosalie Shunk
Hayden Dale Smith
Dylan Robert Stierwalt
Olivia Jane Styan
Jack Christopher Terven
Deklyn James Thomas
Nicholas James Thomas
Hayley Olivia Thompson
Charles Reider Watson
Quentin Stephen Webber
Hallee Ann Weber Patterson
Bryson Matthew Williams
Lucas Neal Williams
Olivia Lynn Wilson
Ethan Matthew Wishall
Ashton Jace Wolf
Adam Scott Wolken


8th Grade High Honor Roll

Joseph William Willard Baird
Patrick Benjamin Baxley
Jackson Christopher Cheely
Soren Lovell Davis
Andrew Patrick Donovan
Dillon Michael Ellars
Kaylee Grace Estes
Carson David Fairbanks
Cohen Fincham
Reagan Elizabeth Lisle Fisher
Hallie Lynn Handal
Jordan Stephen Harmon
Roman James Hastings
Tessa Lynn Horn
Karleigh Grace Jamison
Lincoln Banner Johnson
Joseph Brooks Kamradt
Khison Able Kern
Tatum Anne Kirby
Nolan Mark Tempel Meharry
Dalton Robert Moose
Rhianna Olivia Ocasio
Lillian Yvonne Ring
Caleb Arthur Saxon
Carter Charles Schmid
Bodie Springer
Kole David VanSickle
Gavin James Warren
John William White
Austin James Wiersema
Olivia Ann Williams
Olivia Ruth Witheft


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Unity Junior High second-quarter Honor Roll


Unity Junior High School announced the names of students who achieved honor roll status during the second quarter. Congratulations to all the students who earned the requisite grade point to qualify for recognition during this period.


6th Grade Honor Roll

Ashlyn Nicole Alt
Kaylee Jo Black
Isaac Mathew Boitnott
Bradley Roger Bruhn
Rowan Bryant
Brailey Marie Cain
Viola Ayame Carman
Raeann Loucille Cozad
Greyson Zachary DeHart
Brady Gallagher Eckstein
Collin Daniel Eckstein
Kenzlee Rae Evans
Kinadi Elizabeth Jane Gallivan
Evelyn Anne Gould
Libbey Marlene Ethel Griffin
Jolene Marie Hartman
Addilynn Mae Hatfield
Dylan Paul Holladay
William Timothy Huntington
Finnegan Samuel Bowie Isberg
Adeliah June Little
Jack Thomas Ludwinski
Owen Thomas Menacher
Graham Charles Moore
Nicole Nava Palomares
Caylynn Josie Parker
Ellie Rose Parker-Johnson
Maxwell Tyler Pound
Makena Jade Pruitt
Kyle Sean Roosevelt
Jonah Ryan Schriefer
Layla Marie Scott
Daisy Mae Stierwalt
Clementine Lucille Summitt
Silas Richard Swim
Jaycob David Tatman
Justin Michael Tempel
Meah Ann Tieman
Colby Aaron Weaver
Lucy Jeane Weaver
Levi Nelson White
Phoebe Ashlynn Witheft


7th Grade Honor Roll

Elizabeth Joanne Berkey
Carter Ryan Bickers
Katelyn Dhom
Evan Matthew Donaldson
Jase Charles Eisenmenger
Ian Robert Gaines
Aubrie Paige Gumm
Jordan Elizabeth Hamilton
Landyn Michael Heath
Owen Dean Hottman
Cora Dee Leonard
Owen Michael Lighty
Jauniyah Rosemarie Lisanby
Russell Patrick McCabe
Scarlet Rosemary McCann
Addyson Jo McIntosh
Lane Lucas Meharry
Ellery Merkle
Baeden Edward Millsap-Moore
Emma Grace Mohr
Lillian Calen Mohr
Jaxon David Pendleton
Logan Harvey Reimer Couch
Henry Scott Ritchie
Grace Catherine Schriefer
Connor Allen Schwartz-Rouse
Jasper Lee Souza
Abigail Elise Spomer
Tucker Douglas Stierwalt
Cade Robert Styan
Virgil Laurence Summitt
Jayden Michael Terven
Cassandra Pearl Thweatt
Henry Joseph White


8th Grade Honor Roll

Cameron Pierre Barnes
Cooper Charles Beckett
Beckam Krystopher-Wayde Brown
Brilynn Creola Cain
Sadie Jo Carpenter
Madison Grace Castor
Skyler Andrew Chilton
Devlin Davis
Kinzey Nicole Duitsman
Nolan Myles Elliott
Haley Elizabeth Ennis
Zoe Margaret Fish
Mackinzee Brooke Gumm
Brady Cullen Harris
McKenzie Kathryn Heiple
Brooke Raelynn Henson
Joel Ryan Hoewing
Bryan Michael Kleiss
Jax Hunter Logsdon
Tysen Mac McConaha
Clint Michael McCormick
Payten Renee Niles
Larissa Marie Parr
Clayton Wyatt Pruitt
Kandace Lachelle Reed
Mia Lynn Reifsteck
Journee Lynn Ring
Caleb Joshua Siegwald
Ian James Skibbe
Bradley Scott Smith Jr
Ava Sommer
Sawyer Allen Franks Weller
Adilynn Michelle Wilson
Makaylah Winland
Cole Thomas Zorns


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Photos this week

The St. Joseph-Ogden soccer team hosted Oakwood-Salt Fork in their home season opener on Monday. After a strong start, the Spartans fell after a strong second-half rally by the Comets, falling 5-1. Here are 33 photos from the game.

See the entire photo collection here