Week 8 area football scores

IVC's Bryce Ratcliff gets tackled
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Andrew King puts the initial hit on Illinois Valley Central quarterback Bryce Ratcliff during their Illini Prairie Conference home game on September 13. The Rockets (6-2), who won 48-6, host Monticello (7-1) in the regular season finale at Hicks Field on Friday. Below are results for Friday's contest and this week's upcoming games.

Champaign Central 63
@ Normal West (5-3) 7

Next week: Central hosts Manual (1-7)
Champaign Centennial (4-3) 6
Normal Community (#6 7A) (6-1) 49

Next week: Centennial @ Bloomington (#10 6A) (6-2)
Urbana (0-8) 14
@ Manual (1-7) 58

Next week: Urbana host Normal West (5-3)
Unity (6-2) 56
Paxton-Buckley-Loda (6-2) 6

Next week: Unity host Monticello (#8 3A) (7-1)
St. Joseph-Ogden (#4 3A) (8-0) 53
Rantoul (1-7) 0

Next week: SJO host Paxton-Buckley-Loda (6-2)
Oakwood (5-3) 42
Salt Fork 33

Next week: Oakwood hosts Bismarck-Henning (#3 2A) (8-0) *

Small business employ 44% of workers in Illinois, two laws set to expire will hurt if not renewed

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

A large tax hike could appear soon, that would affect Illinois' small businesses still rebounding from the pandemic. One group hopes Congress will act before two bills expire, and the tax increase takes effect.

A small business advocacy group, The National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) says one of them - the 20% Small Business Deduction Act - was created to align small business tax rates with those of larger corporate competitors.

The group's Vice President for Federal Government Relations Jeff Brabant said...

"It's difficult for small businesses to be able to compete with a lot of their larger competitors, and increasing prices isn't always a great option for them," said Brabant. "If you're an employee and you go to a small employer who may not have the money to be able to offer great benefits, versus a large employer who can offer those benefits, it's always going to put the smaller employer at a little bit of a disadvantage."

If Congress decides not to renew the 20% Small Business Deduction Act, Brabant predicted that 90% of America's businesses would face additional barriers to growth and hiring more workers.

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2023 Profile report, Illinois has slightly more than 2 million small business employees - which account for 44% of the state's employees.

The other law up for review by the House is the Main Street Tax Certainty Act, which permits small businesses to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income and make it a permanent deduction.

Brabant noted that the NFIB strongly supports both measures, which expire on December 31, 2025 - and have bipartisan support.

As the country waits to see the presidential election results, he said he believes the plight of small businesses should be the "number one issue" on Congress's mind.

"It shouldn't be a Republican or Democratic issue," said Brabant. "This should be 'small businesses are the foundation of the economy,' and I don't think anyone wants to see Main Street businesses have a tax hike."

Brabant said the organization is glad both presidential candidates have talked about small businesses, because these discussions don't always occur.

He said NFIB's focus is to educate and increase Congress' awareness, and he said he hopes they will act sooner rather than later.


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Keywords: Illinois small business tax increase, 20% Small Business Deduction Act, Main Street Tax Certainty Act, Small business tax reform 2025, Impact of tax hike on small businesses

Voting in Illinois is easy with various options provided by the state

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

CHICAGO - Illinois voters have several ways to cast their ballot in the upcoming election, whether by mail, in person or early voting.

The Illinois Policy Institute, a political watchdog, reported 2022's general election produced the second-highest voter turnout in a midterm year in 25 years.

Matt Dietrich, public information officer for the Illinois State Board of Elections, wants voters to observe important deadlines for registering to vote. For unregistered voters, he advised there is still time to change their status.

"Voter registration never closes until the polls close on Election Day," Dietrich pointed out. "You can get registered from now right up through and even on November 5th. The online voter registration stays open until 11:59 pm, October 20th."

Voter inquiries can be answered through an online portal on the board's website, elections.il.gov.

Beginning Oct. 9, unregistered voters wanting in-person voting can do so at any early voting location. Dietrich added they will have to cast their early vote ballot at the time of registration.

Two forms of verifiable identification are needed, one which reflects who you are and the other, your voting residence. If you have recently moved to Illinois from another state, an unexpired out-of-state driver's license is accepted. A piece of government mail sent to your residence, a bank statement, or a pay stub with your voting residence is also sufficient.

Another popular choice among Illinoisans is to vote by mail. There was a "slight uptick of 10%," Dietrich reported, even before the pandemic in 2020. He added 2 million people tried it for the first time and deemed the process as safe, convenient and trackable.

"We and all the local election authorities really pushed voting by mail for safety reasons," Dietrich explained. "In the end, we had one-third of the total votes in 2020, cast by mail, about one-third cast early in person and one-third cast on Election Day in person."

Dietrich said in 2022, voting by mail slightly exceeded the number of voters who were voting early in person. He recommends residents wanting to cast mail-in ballots request their ballot far before the Oct. 31 deadline.


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Keywords: Illinois early voting locations, Register to vote in Illinois, Illinois mail-in ballot process Illinois voter registration deadlines, Voting by mail in Illinois, Illinois State Board of Elections voter portal

When it happens, mothers in Illinois have quality options to address postpartum disorder

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

CHICAGO - A new baby should bring a time of happiness for a family but what is frequently dismissed as the "baby blues" is a mental health condition called postpartum depression.

Uncontrollable crying, an inability to complete daily tasks, insomnia, oversleeping and low energy are common symptoms mothers experience and can last for weeks. In severe cases, thoughts of harming themselves, other people or their newborn may occur.

Dr. Robin Drake OB/GYN at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, said a strong support system can help but in some cases, it is ineffective.

"Asking for people to maybe help care for the baby so they have more time for a little bit of self-care," Drake recommended. "Having more time for rest, even showering, just getting a good meal in afterwards, are things that can be really helpful for mood but for many people, that's just not enough."

Drake suggested reaching out to a health care provider or psychotherapist for an assessment to rule out the existence of any other major health conditions or undiagnosed mental health concerns such as bipolar disorder. In 2019, House Bill 3511 was enacted to require the Illinois Department of Public Health to partner with the state's American Academy of Pediatrics to urge physicians to conduct postpartum mental health screenings at well-baby visits.

Extreme cases of postpartum depression lasting for weeks or even months may need medication to alleviate the symptoms. In 2019, the first medicines were formed but one drawback was a required brief hospital stay to help the treatment take effect.

Dr. Donna O'Shea, OB/GYN and chief medical officer for population health at UnitedHealthcare, described one drug which has produced better results in less time.

"This year, Xerove is an option that is in pill form that's taken daily for two weeks and can make a difference in three days," O'Shea explained. "There are many available treatments and paths a woman can go, depending on the severity of her symptoms."

O'Shea added most employers, with guidance from their health care providers, have an employee assistance program, which permits a worker to speak privately with a trained health professional at no cost. Other options include virtual behavioral health coaching or joining a women's postpartum discussion group.

The Illinois Department of Public Health reported in 2019, one in 10 women reported feelings of depression before, during and after her pregnancy.

The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-652-6262).


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Keywords: Postpartum depression symptoms, Postpartum mental health treatment, Postpartum depression support resources Illinois postpartum depression screenings, Xerove postpartum depression medication, National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

Illinois Falls to Rutgers, Foley delivers 10th goal of the season

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - Despite a resilient second-half defensive effort, Illinois soccer fell 2-1 to No. 20 Rutgers on Sunday afternoon at Yurcak Field. The Illini, now 7-8-2 overall and 3-6-1 in Big Ten play, were unable to overcome a first-half deficit despite controlling much of the offensive action after the break.

Rutgers (10-3-3, 6-2-2 Big Ten) opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Riley Tiernan capitalized on an Illinois turnover in their defensive third, netting her fourth goal of the season. Just two minutes later, the Illini responded with a goal from Sarah Foley, leveling the game at 1-1. Foley’s strike marked her 10th goal of the season, solidifying her status as the team’s top scorer.

However, the Scarlet Knights reclaimed the lead at the 32-minute mark when Shaela Bradley scored off an assist from Tiernan. That would prove to be the game-winning goal, as neither team could find the back of the net in the second half.

Illinois applied pressure throughout the contest, outshooting Rutgers 15-10 and earning six corner kicks, five of which came in the second half. The Illini defense tightened after the break, holding the Scarlet Knights to just three shots, only one of which was on target. However, Rutgers’ defense, led by goalkeeper Olivia Bodmer’s five saves, held firm to protect their lead.

Illini goalkeeper Izzy Lee recorded four saves in the first half, helping to keep her team within striking distance. The Illinois attack kept pushing for an equalizer, but a lack of finishing touch in the final third left the Illini without a second goal.

Foley, a junior forward from Belleville, Ill., continues to be a standout for the Illini. In addition to her 10th goal of the season, she has been a key offensive contributor throughout the year. A 5-foot-5 Academic All-Big Ten selection, Foley started 15 consecutive matches last season and has been a vital part of Illinois’ attack this year.

The Illini return to action on October 27 for their 2024 season finale, hosting Northwestern at Demirjian Park. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. CT.


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Keywords: Illinois soccer vs Rutgers, Sarah Foley goal, Illinois Big Ten soccer, Illinois soccer

No. 22 Illinois tops No. 24 Michigan, 21-7

CHAMPAIGN – In a game that celebrated the 100th anniversary of Memorial Stadium, No. 22 Illinois delivered a memorable 21-7 victory over No. 24 Michigan on Saturday afternoon. In front of a sell-out crowd, the 77th in program history, the Fighting Illini marked their third win over a ranked opponent this season, solidifying their place among the top teams in the Big Ten thanks to a dominant defensive effort, highlighted by multiple forced turnovers and key plays frustrating the visiting Wolverines.

Illinois head coach Brett Bielema said to beat a team like Michigan takes preparation. Not just a few days before the game but every opportunity during the year.

"You learn to beat Michigan 365 days a year," he said. "You do the things you do every day to take advantage of moments like this and it was really really rewarding."

The matchup, played one day after the 100th anniversary of Red Grange's legendary six-touchdown performance against Michigan in the stadium's Dedication Game, saw Illinois (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) showcase its defensive strength.

The Illini forced three turnovers, with linebacker Gabe Jacas leading the way, recording a game-high 13 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. Dylan Rosiek added a career-best 12 tackles, while Matthew Bailey contributed 11 tackles, an interception, and a forced fumble.

"Our first key to victory was toplay fast and physcial for four quarters," Bielema explained. "I thought we did that. I love the way our guys compete and find a way to win."

Early Offensive Strikes and Defensive Stops
Illinois wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Aidan Laughery's 29-yard rush highlighting an opening drive that culminated in a 47-yard field goal by David Olano. It was the sixth consecutive game in which the Illini scored on their opening possession, setting the stage for a strong start.

"I thought our defense played outstanding," he Bielema said. "I think last week to have that moment and to learn from it really big moment for Aaron and his staff. Defensively it was really pretty cool."

"I think it was the lowest number of points Michigan has put up in 10 years," he added.

The Illini defense came up big on Michigan's first two possessions, forcing punts both times. The momentum shifted fully in Illinois’ favor early in the second quarter when Jacas forced his third fumble of the season. Malachi Hood recovered the loose ball, marking the first recovery of his career and setting up another Olano field goal, this time from 32 yards, to extend the lead to 6-0.

On Michigan’s next possession, Illinois' defense struck again, with Bailey forcing a fumble that was scooped up by Miles Scott. The Illini capitalized quickly, marching 51 yards down the field before Luke Altmyer connected with tight end Tanner Arkin for a 2-yard touchdown pass, pushing the Illinois lead to 13-0.

Michigan Response and Illinois Resilience
Michigan (5-2, 2-2 Big Ten) managed to answer before halftime, cutting the deficit to 13-7 on a late second-quarter touchdown. But Illinois’ defense had already made its mark, forcing two critical turnovers in the first half and preventing the Wolverines from finding any offensive rhythm.

The Illini’s defense continued its dominance in the second half. After forcing a three-and-out on Michigan's opening possession of the third quarter, Illinois executed a perfectly timed fake punt, with Arkin breaking free for a 36-yard gain that set the Illini up deep in Wolverine territory. Four plays later, Altmyer found the end zone on a 1-yard quarterback sneak. A two-point conversion pass from backup quarterback Donovan Leary to Zakhari Franklin extended Illinois' lead to 21-7 midway through the third quarter.

Illini Defense Seals the Victory
Illinois' defense refused to let Michigan back into the game. When the Wolverines threatened to score late in the third quarter, the Illini's special teams stepped up, with Ezekiel Holmes blocking a field goal attempt—Illinois' first blocked kick of the season.

Matthew Bailey then intercepted a Michigan pass in the red zone, stifling another Wolverine scoring opportunity. Jacas capped off his dominant performance with all 2.5 of his sacks coming in the fourth quarter, as the Illini closed out the victory, remaining undefeated at Memorial Stadium this season.

Up Next For Illinois
With the win, Illinois improved to 6-1 overall and 3-1 in the Big Ten, maintaining their strong position in the conference standings. The victory over Michigan follows earlier wins over ranked opponents, adding to the Illini’s impressive season résumé. The team now turns its attention to a tough road test against No. 2 Oregon next Saturday at Autzen Stadium.

"What we've done is set the stage for for a really good ranked match up against Oregon," Bielema said looking ahead. "I know they're a very good football team. We'll celebrate tonight but put our preparation into Oregon tomorrow and move forward and see where we can go."

The Illini will kick off against Oregon on October 26 at 2:30 p.m. CT, with the game being broadcast nationally on CBS.


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Keywords: Illinois vs Michigan football, Memorial Stadium Rededication Game, Illinois defense forces turnovers, Gabe Jacas sacks, Matthew Bailey interception, Illinois football wins, Big Ten football standings, Illini vs Oregon game preview

Comets edge Cornjerkers out of the postseason on the way to regional finals

Saul Carrillo
Oakwood-Salt Fork's Saul Carrillo (right) challenges St. Joseph-Ogden's Steven Newman for possession during their season opener at Dick Duval Field at St. Joseph-Ogden High School on August 26. Carrillo's second half boot on Saturday against the Cornjerkers punched his team's ticket into the regional title game this week.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

HOOPESTON – In a tightly contested IHSA Regional Semifinal, Oakwood-Salt Fork’s senior Saul Carrillo delivered the game-winning goal to secure a 1-0 victory over Hoopeston Area on Tuesday at Hoopeston Area High School. Carrillo’s unassisted strike in the second half, his second goal of the season, propelled the Comets to their first 20-plus-win campaign in school history and into the regional final.

The matchup saw both teams struggle to convert chances in a scoreless first half, with Oakwood-Salt Fork (21-3-0) maintaining control of possession but failing to break through the Cornjerkers’ defensive setup. Hoopeston Area's (8-17-0) backline, led by goalkeepers Beckett Moran and Brayden Walder, kept the Comets at bay, with Moran recording six saves and Walder collecting three more.

Oakwood-Salt Fork dominated much of the game, outshooting Hoopeston Area 20-5, including 10 shots on goal. Comets goalkeeper Jakob Rupp was rarely tested, making three saves to preserve his team’s clean sheet.

Key Players and Statistics
Carrillo’s second-half goal was a standout moment, but Oakwood-Salt Fork’s offense throughout the season has been led by senior Ethan Merritt, who has scored an impressive 30 goals. Freshman Mason Swartz, a versatile forward and midfielder, has contributed 18 goals, while senior striker Macen Phillips has also been a reliable force up front.

Despite not getting on the scoresheet in the semifinal, Merritt and Phillips were key in creating chances, helping the Comets maintain pressure on Hoopeston’s defense.

Hoopeston Area’s offensive opportunities were limited, with only three shots on target. The Cornjerkers, who finished fifth in the Vermilion Valley Conference (VVC), struggled to find any clear-cut chances against a well-organized Comets defense.

Record-Breaking Season for the Comets
The victory marked Oakwood-Salt Fork’s 21st win of the season, breaking the program's previous record for most wins in a single campaign. The Comets completed a flawless 12-0 run in the VVC during the regular season and have carried that momentum into the postseason.

After a 2-0 loss in their final regular-season game against Fisher-Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley on October 8, the Comets have rebounded with two consecutive victories in the regional tournament. Prior to that defeat, they had been riding a 12-match win streak, and now, with back-to-back wins, Oakwood-Salt Fork appears to have regained its rhythm at a critical time.

Looking Ahead
With the semifinal victory, Oakwood-Salt Fork advances to the IHSA Regional Championship, where they will face Georgetown-Ridge Farm on October 24 at 4 p.m. The Comets will look to continue their historic run and secure a regional title as they head into the next stage of the playoffs.

Hoopeston Area, meanwhile, sees their season come to an end after a challenging year in which they finished 8-17-0 overall. As the Comets prepare for their next test, they’ll rely on their depth and resilience to push further in the playoffs, while continuing to chase their ultimate goal of a state title.


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St. Joseph-Ogden parent-teacher conferences coming up

ST. JOSEPH - Instructors at St. Joseph-Ogden High School will hold Parent-Teacher Conferences on Thursday, October 24 from 3-5 p.m. and from 6-9 p.m.

Parents are encourage to contact the high school to make appointments with their student's teachers and guidance counselor either by email or phone on or before October 22.

SJO students will received their first quarter grades on Monday, October 21.

A Parent-Teacher Conference is an opportunity to discuss a student's academic performance as well as objectives for remaining quarters with their teachers.

To schedule an appointment by email, contact Nicki Falls at fallsn@sjo.k12.il.us or call (217) 469-7321.


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