No longer behind bars, Illinois raises minimum age to jail children next year

The Child First Task Force included in Illinois' newest law will work to address inadequate detention conditions for children.

Photo: Kendel Media/PEXELS

New Illinois legislation creates a Child First Task Force to address broader gaps in the juvenile detention system.


by Judith Ruiz-Branch
Public News Service


CHICAGO - Juvenile justice advocates in Illinois are praising the state’s decision to raise the minimum age for juvenile detention from 10 to 13 years old beginning in 2026.

A newly signed bill aims to reform juvenile justice practices across the state by creating services and programs prioritizing rehabilitation treatment alternatives for children.

Elizabeth Clarke, founder and executive director of the Juvenile Justice Initiative, said it is the culmination of more than a decade of work to prioritize a restorative justice approach to juvenile detention which uses jail as a last resort in extreme cases.

"It's a very exciting step forward," Clarke explained. "Following research to the best outcomes when children are in conflict with the law, will keep the public safer, will reduce local community costs, and improve services across the state."

Along with regular reporting requirements from probation and court services, the legislation creates a Child First Task Force to address broader gaps in the juvenile detention system. The law takes effect in 2026 raising the minimum age from 10 to 12 years old first, and then to 13 years old in 2027.

The law includes a carveout for crimes like murder, aggravated sexual assault, aggravated battery with a firearm or aggravated vehicular hijacking. Clarke noted while there currently are not many children in jail in Illinois, the harm caused by it is profound, increases the likelihood of repeat offenses and is particularly harmful for younger children.

"All the research shows that wrapping around services to keep kids at home or close to home, is really critical," Clarke emphasized. "Especially with this young population, to address the challenges that are leading them to violate the law in the first place."

She added services are crucial to addressing challenges, allowing children to move forward and not be set backward by time and detention.

Clarke stressed a major issue with the juvenile justice system in Illinois is the fractured funding and oversight structure. She underscored the Child First Task Force included in the bill will work to address inadequate detention conditions for children by identifying and addressing deficiencies and needed resources for improvements.


More on Illinois politics

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The Sentinel On This Day |
December 17

Here is a recap of the headlines published on this day in December in the Sentinel from Champaign‑Urbana and surrounding communities. From local news and sports to community events, politics, and opinion pieces, The Sentinel archives capture the stories that shaped life in Champaign County year after year.

Sentinel Article Archive for December 17

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TAGS: Easy holiday appetizers you can maker, SJO basketball led by Martinie, Ten ways to thank a caregiver, things that every new mom should know in Champaign-Urbana, Vincent Johnson's Illustrious book featuring Illinois high school gyms
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Tuesday Basketball Scoreboard for December 16

Here are scores and recaps for Tuesday's basketball games in and around Champaign County.


Boys Basketball

Rockets roll cruise past Trojans


CHARLESTON - Tyler Henry used his time on the floor in the first three quarters to score 15 points in Unity's 81-42 win over Charleston on the road Tuesday. Three other Rockets reach double figures with Dane Eisenmenger dropping 14 points - 12 from four treys, and Coleton Langendorf padded the scorebook with 12 points. Brayden Henry finished with 11 points.

Coming up short, nine players contributed to the Trojans' scoring effort led by Tyler Oakley's team-high seven points. Quinn Taylor, Braxton Hanner, and Alex Metheny scored six points each in the non-conference loss.

ALAH comes up short against Sages


MONTICELLO - Will Hilligoss scored 15 in Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond's road game at Monticello. Brennon Hutson also reach double figures with 12 points. Jayden Parsons lead the team's rebounding effort with five boards.


Boys' Area Scoreboard


Unity 81, Charleston 42
Tuscola 72, Heritage 36
St. Thomas More 62, Herscher 46
Monticello 59, Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond 41
Maroa-Forsyth 69, Rantoul 56


Girls Basketball

Oakwood drops home game


Oakwood - Madalynne Nicoson led the Comets with ten points in their loss to visiting Armstrong-Potomac on Tuesday. Caydence Vermillion, who was held to just a single free throw, led the team in the paint with six rebounds. Sophomore Avery Trimmell powered the team's defensive effort with three steals.


Girls' Area Scoreboard


Armstrong-Potomac 56, Oakwood 22


More basketball stories

TAGS: Monticello boys basketball team beats ALAH, Oakwood girls lose VVC game, St. Thomas More defeats Herscher
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Guest Commentary |
So much bad news, when we should be focusing on the good

We never get a break from bad news. This Christmas there is much to focus on. Don't focus on mistakes, problems, old habits or sins.


by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator

Glenn Mollette
We never get a break from bad news. In recent days we have heard of people being killed at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia. There have been more school shootings from Brown University to Kentucky State University. Russia continues to bomb Ukraine and groceries continue to assault Americans’ pocketbooks.

Yet, at Christmas time the overriding theme is good news. In a world of so much bad news comes the holiday of good news. The angel who appeared to the Shepherds who were watching their flock said, “Do not be afraid, I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord,” Luke 2:10-11.

The central person of the good news is Jesus. He is the one the angels celebrated. His birth gave them reason to appear and make the wonderful announcement that brought joy to the shepherds and all who would be impacted by the birth of Jesus.

This Christmas you are probably one of many who welcomes good news. Maybe you have buried a wife, a husband or a child. At times, the loneliness and grief are unbearable and you wonder how you will ever survive your missing loved one. People are suffering financial stress from the cost of everyday living Sickness invades our lives at one time or another impacting us or someone we love. Life is filled with stressful situations that often rob us of peace.

The good news of Christmas is God has come in the flesh to love us, walk with us and bring joy that nothing or no one else can give. Jesus said “My peace I give unto you, not as the world gives, but give I unto you,” John 14:27.

This Christmas there is much to focus on. You can spend your day focused on the Democrats or the Republicans. You can focus on our President or members of Congress. You can focus on all that you do not have or all that you wish you did not have. You can focus on your situation, your age, your health or you can focus on everyone else. Will this bring you joy?

Do not focus on regrets. Do not focus on mistakes, problems, old habits or sins. Jesus came to help us overcome all of these and more. Because of his life, death and resurrection we have a Savior who has given us every reason to look up and forward instead of down and back.

Jesus told his disciples in John 16:33, “Take heart, I have overcome the world.”

While the media is filled with bad news, take heart, the message of Christmas is good news. Therefore, as Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled.” May we all be filled with the good news of the great story of Christmas.


About the author ~

Glen Mollett is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.


More Editorial Viewpoints

The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.
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Recipe |
Try these make-ahead appetizers for you next holiday party

Photo of Deviled Eggs and Bacon made for a holiday gathering. Family Features - With all the work ahead on magnificent main courses, stunning sides and decadent desserts, there’s one element of the holiday meal that should remain easy and effortless: the appetizer table.

Photo provided
However, “easy” doesn’t have to mean “plain.” Start the celebration with delicious hors d’oeuvres like Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheeseballs with just the right amount of spice to light up the crowd without overwhelming.

Of course, you can always turn to classic Deviled Eggs and Bacon for a no-brainer recipe that’s ready in advance. Just garnish with celery curls and mini radish sticks at the last moment for an appetizer that’s as visually appealing as it is delightfully simple and tasty.

With a legacy of quality, innovation and consistency in celery cultivation for almost 100 years, Duda Farm Fresh Foods has redefined what celery can be. Crispier, sweeter and less stringy for superior taste and bite, Dandy Celery is perfect for holiday snacking and incorporating into your family’s favorite dishes.

In addition, it’s packaged fresh and crisp with no preservatives. Celery is low in calories, high in fiber and packed with flavor, making it a smart choice for snacking and cooking during an otherwise indulgent season.

Here are two delicious recipes from culinary.net to wow guest this holiday season. Discover more ways to simplify holiday prep, visit DudaFresh.com.

Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheeseballs

Yield: 8 cheeseballs

Photo provided

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon canned, diced jalapeno peppers, drained
2 tablespoons minced fresh jalapeno, divided
1/2 cup green onions, chopped, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
6 slices (about 2/3 cup) cooked bacon, chopped, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Dandy Celery Sticks
Dandy Radish Coins

To make cheeseballs: Combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cumin, onion powder, canned jalapenos, 1 tablespoon fresh jalapenos, 1/4 cup green onions, salt, pepper and 1/3 cup chopped bacon. Using spoon or rubber spatula, mix thoroughly.

To make coating: In small bowl or plate, combine remaining green onion (green parts only), parsley, remaining fresh jalapenos and remaining bacon.

Using 2-ounce ice cream scoop, portion eight equal balls, placing in shallow bowl to roll and cover with coating.

Serve with celery sticks and radish coins.

Deviled Eggs and Bacon

Servings: 8-12

Photo of Deviled Eggs and Bacon
Photo provided

12 cage-free eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 green onions, roughly chopped
2 stalks Dandy Celery, julienned
1 package Dandy Radish Ministicks
4 slices bacon, cooked to crisp and cut into 24 pieces
ground Aleppo pepper or paprika
sea salt flakes

Slice eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and place in food processor bowl. Add mayonnaise, mustard, sour cream, whipping cream, salt, pepper and green onions. Mix until smooth, scraping down sides between pulses. Remove from food processor and place mixture in piping bag fitted with star tip.

Pipe filling into each egg white half. Display filled eggs on platter before applying toppings.

To prepare celery, place in water to curl cut celery. Set aside leaves for garnish.

Place celery curls, radish sticks and crispy bacon on top of each egg. Sprinkle with Aleppo pepper and sea salt. Garnish with celery leaves, if desired.

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Illustrious - Showcases and the stories behind Illinois’ most iconic high school gyms

Illustrious basketball book cover
From domed ceilings to legendary alumni, a new book explores the most unique high school basketball gyms in Illinois through stunning photography.
Photo courtesy Vincent D. Johnson

The view of Lewistown H.S. Gym on February 24, 2023 for Vincent Johnson's book Illustrious: The Best High School Basketball Gyms in Illinois.


by Clark Brooks
The Sentinel


CHICAGO - On a quiet Saturday afternoon in January 2012, at the Oak Park-River Forest field house, a simple thought refused to leave Vincent Johnson alone.

Covering a girls basketball game for the Oak Leaves, Johnson found himself looking beyond the box score and into the bones of the building itself. The space was overwhelming in the best way. Big. Empty. Striking. The field house - massive, architectural, overwhelming in character - was alive with echoes. The gym itself demanded his attention.

And as the sounds of voices, squeaking shoots and pound of the ball against the floor faded, so did an idea that would take more than a decade to fully come to life. A book. Not about players or championships, but about the gyms themselves.

"It would be cool to do a high school gyms book," he remembers thinking.

From Idea to Reality

The concept first emerged in the early 2000s when Johnson was running IHSFW.com, a website dedicate to high school football coverage around the state, and working on a project to photograph interesting high school football fields and stadiums. But he figured someone must have already done a basketball gyms book.

In December 2021, with high school sports returning to full capacity after the pandemic, Johnson found himself at Brother Rice covering a game. He started photographing their unique gym, and the old idea came roaring back. This time, he was determined to make it happen. It was game on.

His goal? Find and photograh the most unique basketball venues in Illinois but only the ones that pass his test to separate the wheat from the chaff.

"They had to look good empty," Johnson said. "If you can't walk into a gym when nobody else is there and aren't taken aback just a little, it probably didn't deserve to be in the book."

The road to publication proved rocky. Johnson signed with a publisher he considered the perfect fit, but creative differences ended the partnership before they got past the cover. Suddenly, funding became a major hurdle — he'd gone from paying for travel around the state to footing the entire bill for each copy.

"I thought I was dead in the water for a while about this time last year," Johnson said.

He decided on an ambitious page count and quality level anyway, determined to create something he was proud of. Pre-orders poured in, including bulk orders from schools. Family and friends offered zero-interest loans to cover the shortfall.

Photo courtesy Vincent D. Johnson

Ottawa High School’s Kingman Gym, during a boys basketball game between Morris and the Pirates, on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.

"From all the pre-orders by people who just trusted that some guy on the internet (me) was going to deliver on this book, to the people who knew me and that I was about to make a once-in-a-generation keepsake, I'm extremely touched," he said.

The Selection Process

Johnson keeps meticulous records. More than 800 schools have rows in a massive spreadsheet, each with at least eight different columns. Every school included in or considered for the book has a separate sheet with even more information, plus a 360-page Word document with stories on all the gyms.

As for hours spent shooting and editing? He can't even guess.

"I'd have needed an intern to follow me and track my time and miles," Johnson said. "It's a lot!"

While aesthetics drove most selections, logistics played a role too. Gyms with similar design styles sometimes came down to scheduling. Kankakee and Boylan Catholic made the cut because they had home games on nights Johnson was free. Bradley-Bourbonnais and Rockford East easily could have been chosen instead if the schedules had aligned differently.

The finished product is a sturdy, 264-page hardcover book with a striking dust jacket. Inside are more than 450 full-color photos of the 124 most interesting high school gyms in the state. Johnson highlights the year each facility was built, its seating capacity, and notable names such as Hugh Hefner, Glen “Doc” Rivers and Arthur “Buz” Sievers.

The book is full of tidbits and Illinois basketball trivia. Which gym was the home court for 10 NBA players? Do you know which gym legendary actor Harrison Ford did radio broadcasts from before making it to the silver screen? And which four gyms in Illinois were built with circular domes?

Can't get enough? Johnson's blog about his publishing journey has even more information like which seven gyms in Illinois have been hit by tornados.

Photo courtesy Vincent D. Johnson

The Flames of Lycée Français de Chicago take on the Knights of Providence-St. Mel on February 19, 2022.

A Photographer's Journey

Johnson's interest in photography began his sophomore year of high school - a story he saves for the book's author introduction. But the moment he realized photography could be a career came during a high school football game in his hometown of Joliet.

Taking a photography elective at Joliet Junior College as a credit-hour filler before transferring to Columbia College, Johnson bumped into Scott Lewis, a staff photographer for the Joliet Herald News.

"When he told me that he was working as a photographer and made a decent living working at the paper, I was absolutely shocked," Johnson said. "It never occurred to me that doing photography was a career."

His first published photo appeared in the Joliet Herald News' west edition, which served the Morris and Minooka areas. He photographed two women who had opened a crafts store in Mazon.

These days, Johnson jokes that the pay doesn't always make photography feel like a career, but he loves what he does.

"My office is different every day," he said. "It's hard to be bored when you're literally out there capturing the news that someone will be asking if you heard about the next day."

Overwhelming Response

The feedback has stunned him. People tell him they're reading about a different gym each night and can't put the book down. One woman said it's the first time in more than 20 years she can remember her husband trying to get his Christmas present early.

"It's a humbling experience," Johnson said. Random people from across the state have asked to call him and talk about gyms and basketball. "It's been great just to hear other stories."

Illustrious basketball book cover
Photo courtesy Vincent D. Johnson

The dust jack cover from Johnson's first book Illustrious: The Best High School Basketball Gyms in Illinois.

The book is available mainly at illustriousgyms.com. Reaching out to bookstores, even independent ones, hasn't been easy. Johnson is listing places where people can buy in person on the website, and he's doing book signings at high school gyms around the state. A calendar on the site lists dates and locations.

Johnson is most active on Twitter, Instagram and recently TikTok under the handle VincentDJohnson. He also runs an all-sports Instagram account at VDJsports.

His advice to aspiring photographers is simple: "If you see something interesting, take a photo. That moment is never going to be around again."


Illinois high school basketball gym photography book, unique high school gyms in Illinois, Illinois basketball history book, high school gym architecture Illinois, Vincent Johnson Illinois gyms book
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IHSA members expand football playoffs, schedule changes approved for 2026 season

From expanded football playoffs to board changes, IHSA schools approved sweeping by-law amendments with statewide impact. Officials say the expansion will improve scheduling and long-term stability and moves regular-season games up one week.

Unity's Crewe Eckstein is tackled by three Byron defenders

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Structural changes to high school football in Illinois will benefit teams around the state. Quality programs can schedule games against top-tier opponents like Byron and Unity without the potential loss affecting playoff eligibility.
BLOOMINGTON - Friday nights in October are about to mean a little more to a lot more Illinois high school football teams next fall.

Illinois high school football will see its largest postseason field in state history beginning in 2026, after member schools approved a sweeping expansion of the IHSA football playoffs. The change reshapes not just who gets in, but how schools schedule, compete and stay invested long after the first losses of the season.

In a move away from a five-win season to qualify, the change means that teams with four or less wins during the season may become playoff eligible.

Schools voted this month to expand the playoffs from 32 teams per class to 48 teams per class, increasing the total number of qualifiers from 256 to 384 while keeping eight classes intact. The vote was part of the IHSA’s annual by-law referendum process, which concluded Dec. 15 and was independently certified the following morning.

IHSA officials say the move is aimed less at exclusivity and more at long-term stability across the sport.

“Too often throughout the years, football decisions have negatively impacted other sports at IHSA schools,” IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson said. “We are hopeful that this football playoff expansion will provide intended relief to our schools by stabilizing conference movement and eliminating the difficulty of scheduling football games that many of our schools face each year.”

Under the previous format, teams needed five wins to qualify, a threshold that drove schools to avoid strong nonconference opponents or scramble late to fill open dates. The expanded field is expected to reduce that pressure, encouraging more balanced scheduling and fewer late-season cancellations.

The change also keeps more teams mathematically alive deeper into the season, increasing the number of meaningful games in October and helping maintain student-athlete engagement even after early losses or injury setbacks.

Beginning in 2026, the football season will still start Aug. 10, but the first regular-season games will be played one week earlier, on Aug. 20, eliminating the traditional Week Zero scrimmage. The adjustment brings Illinois in line with neighboring states such as Indiana and Michigan, a move coaches say should ease cross-border scheduling challenges.

The expanded playoff field is expected to allow most teams with three or four wins in the nine-game regular season to qualify. Previously, all five-win teams and only some four-win teams advanced. Every team already qualifies for the postseason in other IHSA-sponsored sports.

While the expansion was approved unanimously by the membership, some coaches have raised concerns about competitive balance.

“I’m all for kids playing more football and getting more practices,” Mount Carmel coach Jordan Lynch told the Chicago Sun-Times. “But what about potential injury risk? There are some teams that have three wins that are not very good football teams.”

IHSA officials acknowledge the possibility of short-term growing pains, including first-round mismatches, but note that such issues already exist under the current format. They point instead to the developmental benefits of postseason participation, particularly for rebuilding and mid-tier programs that gain additional practices and exposure through playoff preparation.

Beyond football, schools also approved several governance and policy changes. The IHSA Board of Directors will expand from 11 to 15 elected members, adding four seats designated for superintendents or heads of school. Cooperative teams made up of 3,500 students or more will no longer be eligible for state series team awards, and the IHSA’s summer no-contact period will shift from early August to the week of the Fourth of July beginning this year.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

High school football fans will enjoy a longer season and give many schools an opportunity to host a state playoff game on their home field.

For many communities, the football expansion carries significance beyond the field. More playoff games mean increased gate revenue, additional school-hosted events and deeper community engagement during the fall.

“It may create some short-term complications for some schools, conferences, and coaches,” Anderson said, “but we remain optimistic it will create long-term stability in football and beyond.”

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The Sentinel On This Day |
December 16

Discover the headlines published on this day in December in Champaign‑Urbana and the wider community. From local news and sports to community events, politics, and opinion pieces, The Sentinel archives capture the stories that shaped life in Champaign County year after year.

Sentinel Article Archive for December 16

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TAGS: Rickasia Ivy Photo of the Day, SJO basketball undefeated, Sentinel sports
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8 Myths About the Call-Before-You-Dig Hotline

Installing a new mailbox, planting a small garden, or putting up a fence all require digging, and each of these activities can damage an underground utility line.


by Casey Cartwright
Contributor Writer


Photo: Alfo Medeiros/PEXELS

Thinking about putting in a new mailbox, planting a tree, or building a backyard deck? Before you grab your shovel, there's a crucial step every resident of Champaign County and all of Illinois needs to take: contacting the 811 Call-Before-You-Dig hotline.

Despite the importance of this service, many misconceptions persist. Below, we debunk some of the most common myths about the call-before-you-dig hotline.

Myth #1:
It's Only Necessary for Big Projects

One of the most dangerous misconceptions is that you only need to call 811 for large-scale construction or excavation projects. Many people believe that small, seemingly simple tasks don't pose a risk. However, the depth of utility lines can vary greatly, and some can be surprisingly shallow.

Installing a new mailbox, planting a small garden, or putting up a fence all require digging, and each of these activities can damage an underground utility line. In fact, homeowners cause a significant number of utility strikes each year while completing small projects. The rule is simple: no matter how minor the digging, from setting a fence post to installing a sprinkler system, making the call to 811 is mandatory.

Myth #2:
It's Okay to Estimate the Location of Underground Utilities

Some people might think they can save time by guessing where utility lines are, depending on the location of the meters or where they remember the installation of the lines years ago. The layout of underground infrastructure is complex and often not intuitive. A water line might not run in a straight path from the street to your house, and electrical cable routes can go in surprising directions.

Waiting for the utility companies to come out and mark their lines is not just a recommendation; it's a critical safety measure. After you contact 811, utility locators will visit your property and use color-coded flags or paint to mark the approximate location of their lines. These professionals use special equipment to detect the precise path of underground infrastructure.

Myth #3:
811 Only Protects Utilities in Public Rights-of-Way

Another common myth about the call-before-you-dig hotline is that it only applies to utilities buried under streets, sidewalks, and other public areas. Many homeowners mistakenly believe they are not responsible for the lines running through their own yard.

The 811 system covers both public and private property. While utility companies own and maintain the lines, property owners are legally responsible for protecting them from damage on their land. When you contact 811, locators will mark all public utility lines on your property, such as gas, electric, water, sewer, and telecommunications.

Myth #4:
If I Don't Hit Anything, I'm in the Clear

Some diggers might think that if they don’t cause a major rupture or a power outage, they haven't done any real harm. This couldn't be further from the truth. Even a seemingly minor scrape from a shovel can compromise the integrity of a utility line. A small nick in the protective coating of a gas line can lead to corrosion and, eventually, a dangerous leak.

When digging near utility lines, you must proceed with caution. This means using hand tools, like a shovel, instead of power equipment within the "tolerance zone"—the area a few feet on either side of the marked line. If you contact a utility line, no matter how insignificant it seems, you must report it to the utility company immediately.

Myth #5:
Calling 811 is Too Time-Consuming

In a rush to start a project, the idea of waiting a few days for utility marking can feel like an unnecessary delay. However, contacting 811 is quick and straightforward. In Illinois, you can make a request online or over the phone in just a few minutes. By law, the utility companies have two business days to respond and mark their lines.

Consider the alternative. If you skip the call and hit a utility line, the consequences will be far more time-consuming. You could face project shutdowns, repair crews taking over your yard, and potential legal action. A utility strike can delay your project by weeks or even months and result in costs that dwarf any perceived savings from skipping the 811 call.

Myth #6:
I Already Know Where the Utilities Are

Even if you have lived in your home for decades or have old property maps, you should never assume you know the exact location of underground utilities. The landscape of buried infrastructure changes constantly. Utility companies often perform upgrades, reroute lines, or install new services. The information from a previous project or an old blueprint may no longer be accurate.

Furthermore, records and maps are not always a perfect representation of what lies beneath the ground. Over time, the ground shifts, and erosion can change the depth and position of lines. The only reliable way to know what's currently underneath your property is for the 811 system to professionally locate and mark it. Each new digging project requires a new call.

Myth #7:
811 Locates All Utilities on Your Property

Many people assume that calling 811 means they’ll mark every utility line on their property. However, 811 only marks public utility lines, such as gas, electric, water, and telecommunications, that utility companies maintain. Private lines, like those running from your meter to a backyard pool, shed, or other structures, are not included.

You should first determine if private locators are necessary for your project and property. If so, you must hire a professional private locator to verify the location of these private utility lines prior to digging.

Myth #8:
There's No Penalty for Not Calling 811

Perhaps the most costly myth is the belief that there are no real consequences for failing to call 811. In Illinois, digging without contacting 811 first is against the law. If you damage a utility line because you didn’t take the necessary steps to locate and mark it, you can face significant fines. These penalties emphasize the seriousness of unsafe digging practices.

Beyond the fines, you will also be held financially liable for the full cost of repairs, which can easily run into thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If your actions cause an injury, you could also face a lawsuit. The potential financial and legal ramifications far outweigh the minor inconvenience of making a free phone call.

Know the Facts about 811

Before your shovel ever hits the dirt, make the smart, safe, and legally required choice. Contact 811 to get professional help locating and marking utility lines. It’s a simple step that protects you, your property, and your community. Help spread the word in Champaign County and encourage your friends and neighbors always to call before they dig.


Bio: Casey is a passionate copyeditor highly motivated to provide compelling SEO content in the digital marketing space. Her expertise includes a vast range of industries from highly technical, consumer, and lifestyle-based, with an emphasis on attention to detail and readability.


TAGS: Call 811 before you dig in your yards, legal ramification are serious if you don't call Julie, call 811 before every yard project when you need to dig, it is a safety measure to call before you dig
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Photo of the Day |
Urbana's Rickasia Ivy makes strong showing at state

Urbana sophomre Rickasia Ivy finished 2-2 at the 2025 IHSA Girls Individual State Wrestling Tournament back in February. She is back on the roster on the prowl for another chance at a state title with the 5th-ranked Tigers. Here is a look back at her first state match.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Urbana's Rickasia Ivy (right) looks to get head control on New Trier's Jillian Giller during their 140-pound match on at the Illinois High School Association's Girls Individual Wrestling State Finals in Bloomington on Friday, February 28, 2025. Ivy, a sophomore, lost the match by fall at 5:04. She finished the state tourament 2-2 after a 3-1 loss to Karen Canchola in the wrestleback. Giller, a senior, ended her high school career with pin to finish 5th.

TAGS: Urbana sophomore wrestler Rickasia Ivy, New Trier wrestler finishes 5th at state, Trevian senior Jillian Giller
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The Sentinel On This Day |
December 13

St. Joseph-Ogden wrestler Maddie Wells
With the month almost over, festive with bright colored lights and winter’s chill settling upon us, we revisit the stories that defined our community — from holiday traditions and year‑end reflections to local sports highlights, civic milestones, and spirited debates. Explore archived posts published on this day in December across Champaign County and beyond, curated by The Sentinel.

Sentinel Article Archive for December 13

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St. Joseph-Ogden fall sports award winners

SJO volleyball's Hadley McDonald and Emmerson Williams celebrate
The fall of 2025 was one to remember for St. Joseph-Ogden athletics. Varsity letters were awarded to 129 student-athletes across sports and activities.


ST. JOSEPH - St. Joseph-Ogden High School didn’t just wrap up a fall sports season. It closed the book on one of the most memorable stretches of athletic success the program has seen in years.

Last week, the Spartans announced 129 varsity letter winners from fall sports and activities, a number that speaks not only to wins and trophies, but to depth, commitment and consistency across the athletic department. From packed Friday nights on the football field to championship-caliber finishes on the cross country course and the soccer pitch, St. Joseph-Ogden athletes left their mark throughout the fall of 2025.

Football set the tone early.

After absorbing injuries to key players at the start of the season, the Spartans could have folded. Instead, they regrouped, leaned on grit and tenacity, and found their rhythm when it mattered most. St. Joseph-Ogden finished 8-5 and authored an impressive postseason run that reminded opponents the Spartans are rarely an easy out in November.

It was the kind of season that doesn’t show up fully in a record book. It showed up in long practices, next-man-up performances and a squad that stayed connected through adversity. For the players who earned letters, it was a season built on determination as much as talent.

Distance running brought statewide recognition.

Both the boys and girls cross country teams delivered top-10 finishes at the IHSA state meet in Peoria, continuing SJO's place among Illinois’ elite programs. The boys finished seventh overall, while the girls claimed sixth, a testament to months of disciplined training and steady progression.

Cross country success rarely comes overnight. It is built mile by mile, often before sunrise and long after the school day ends on the roads through and around town. The state finishes reflected not only strong front runners but complete teams that could pack together and score when it mattered most.

Soccer might have been the headline act.

Behind the combined scoring punch of senior Zach Harper and junior Tyler Hess, the Spartans rolled through much of their schedule, overwhelming opponents with pace, precision and confidence. St. Joseph-Ogden finished the season 24-2-2, with the only blemish coming in a hard-fought sectional championship loss to Williamsville.

Under head coach Chris Stevens, the Spartans put together a program-best 22-match unbeaten run, winning 20 matches and tying two. It was the kind of stretch that defines a season and leaves a lasting standard for what Spartan soccer can be.

While championships and records grab attention, the heart of the announcement rested with the 129 student-athletes who earned varsity letters. Those letters represent early mornings, late nights, and the willingness to balance academics with the demands of high-level competition. They also represent teammates who may not always appear in box scores but are essential to a program’s success.

Below is the complete list of award winners and varsity letter recipients at St. Joseph-Ogden High School. Each fall sport and activity contributed to that total, reinforcing the idea that St. Joseph-Ogden athletics is not built on one team or one season, but on a culture of excellence.

FOOTBALL

St. Joseph-Ogden's Wyatt Wertz
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Spartan running back Wyatt Wertz celebrates as he lands in the end zone for a touchdown against Pontiac. The senior shared this season's team Offensive Award with Kaden Wedig.

Team Awards


MVP – Kodey McKinney
MIP – Jonathon Moore
Defensive Award – Coy Hayes
Offensive Award – Wyatt Wertz & Kaden Wedig
Scout Team Award – Holden Hausle
Special Teams Award – Lucas Smith
Lineman Award – Brennan Oleynichak
Spartan Team Player Award – Tim Blackburn-Kelley

Letterwinners

Matt Alexander, Sr.
Tim Blackburn-Kelley, Sr.
Will Franklin, Sr.
Charlie Hale, Sr.
Coy Hayes, Sr.
Ryker Lockhart, Sr.
Kodey McKinney, Jr.
Jackson Mohr, Sr.
Jonathon Moore, Sr.
Brennan Oleynichak, Sr.
Colton Overstreet, Sr.
Logan Rosenthal, Sr.
Landon Smith, Sr.
Lucas Smith, Sr.
Hunter Van Meenen, Sr.
Wyatt Wertz, Sr.
Willis Canamore, Jr.
Jameson Ennis, Jr.
Paityn Mann, Jr.
Maddux Musselman, Jr.
Cameron Wagner, Jr.
Brayden Waller, Jr.
Kaden Wedig, Jr.
Liam Carter, So.
Caleb Courter, So.
Landon May, So.
Lane McKinney, So.
Mason Osterbur, So.
Logan Umbarger, So.
Ryder Van Meenen, So.
Owen Wall, So.
Lucas Waters, So.

VOLLEYBALL

SJO volleyball's Hadley McDonald and Emmerson Williams celebrate
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Emma McKinney, Emerson Williams, Hadley McDonald and members of the SJO volleyball celebrate a point during set one of their regional semifinal match against Unity. Emerson received the team's Offensive Award this fall.

Team Awards


MIP – Ally Schmitz
Defensive Award – Katie Ericksen
Offensive Award – Emma McKinney
Varsity Spartan Award – Emma Wells
JV Spartan Award – Greta Goldenstein
Freshman Spartan Award – Ella Buhs

Letterwinners

Addi Childers, Sr.
Katie Ericksen, Sr.
Emma McKinney, Sr.
Ally Schmitz, Sr.
Emma Wells, Sr.
Lily Ahart, Jr.
Brynn Ikemire, Jr.
Alivia Learned, Jr.
Hadley McDonald, Jr.
Addi Stevens, Jr.
Emerson Williams, Jr.
Ava Alexander, So.
Megan Kearney, So.
Atleigh Miller, So.
Vivian Smith, So.
Raegan Wheatley, So.

TENNIS

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Maddie Wells makes solid contact while play doubles in SJO's road match at Urbana in September. Starting wrestling season last month, look for the senior to qualify for the IHSA girls' state tournament this February.

Team Awards


MVP – Sami Kelso
MIP – Shelby Warns
Mental Attitude Award – Madison Farber

Letterwinners

Claire Hartman, Sr.
Samantha Kelso, Sr.
Ava Midkiff, Sr.
Ainsely Rhoton, Sr.
Lily Rice, Sr.
Karleigh Spain, Sr.
Maddie Wells, Sr.
Madison Farber, Jr.
Audrie Helfrich, Jr.
Sophie Schmitz, Jr.
Shelby Warns, Jr.
Avarie Dietiker, So.
Kenley Ray, So.
Nora Buckley, Fr.

SOCCER

Yadiel Acosta-Reyes takes the ball down the field for St. Joseph-Ogden
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Junior Yadie Acosta-Reyes dribbles the ball down the field in the Spartans home playoff match against Unity. Look for the midfielder to return next fall to help SJO duplicate their 2025 season greatness.

Team Awards


MVP – Zach Harper
Offensive Award – Tyler Hess
Defensive Award – Steven Newman
Freshman MIP – Luke Dunn
Coaches Award – Quinn Stahl

Letterwinners

Rudra Chaudhary, Sr.
Zach Harper, Sr.
Michael McDaniel, Sr.
Branson Pearman, Sr.
Quinn Stahl, Sr.
Hadley Sweet, Sr.
Yadiel Acosta-Reyes, Jr.
Lizzie Clark, Jr.
Jaxson Colvin, Jr.
Skyler Graham, Jr.
Nicholas Harris, Jr.
Tyler Hess, Jr.
Waylon Jones, Jr.
Steven Newman, Jr.
Jaxon Potts, Jr.
Miles Atwood, So.
Hunter Cler, So.
Luke Dunn, Fr.
Lucas Stevens, Fr.
Caleb Taylor, Fr.

MARCHING BAND

SJO Marching Band's Emily Bird
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Emily Bird plays clarinet while performing with the SJO Marchng Band during the halftime show during the football team's home game against Paxton-Buckley-Loda.

Band Awards


MVP – Sara Bytnar
Up and Comer Award – Ramsay Arnold
Spirit Award – Delaney Nekolny
Leadership Award – Sydney Steinbach
Spinner Award – Arianna Pecchenino
Heartbeat of the Band Award – Gregory Wells

Letterwinners

Emily Bird, Sr.
Sara Bytnar, Sr.
Claire Hartman, Sr.
Cooper Kietzman, Sr.
Michael McDaniel, Sr.
Patrick McMahon, Sr.
Delaney Nekolny, Sr.
Kaleb Peoples, Sr.
Sydney Steinbach, Sr.
Carlee Taylor, Sr.
Zain Bialeschki-Hua, Jr.
Isabella Turner, Jr.
Cole Beckett, So.
Tyler Bonny, So.
Patrick Clark, So.
Aubrey Matheny, So.
Connor McMahon, So.
Alyssa Robinson, So.
Nayeli Steele, So.
Ramsay Arnold, Fr.
Reid Bewley, Fr.
Bailey Blakley, Fr.
Brady Blunier, Fr.
Jade Gains, Fr.
Arianna Pecchenino, Fr.
August Rosser, Fr.
Ryan Schmitz, Fr.
Taylor Vaughn, Fr.
Greg Wells, Fr.
Gwen Welsh, Fr.

GOLF

Team Awards


MVP – Asher Pruemer
MIP – Trevor Ames

Letterwinners

Trevor Ames, Sr.
Wade Clark, Sr.
Nathan Daly, Sr.
Asher Pruemer, Sr.
Graham Ray, Sr.
Devan Swisher, Sr.
Garrett Loschen, Jr.
Finn Miller, Jr.

SIDELINE CHEERLEADING

Team Awards


MIP – Addison Wright
Spirit Award – Abby Reynolds
Lexi Barbour Award – Addison Walsh

Letterwinners

Iris Davis, Jr.
Leah Gaines, Jr.
Faith Jackson, Jr.
Peighton Riem, Jr.
Ava Smoot, Jr.
Abby Reynolds, So.
Samantha Ryan, So.
Addison Walsh, So.
Sorena Welsh, So.
Presley Ideus, Fr.
Addison Wright, Fr.

CROSS COUNTRY

Team Awards


Boys MVP – Colin Burnett & Lance Retz
Girls MVP – Grace Bressner
Boys MIP – Sam Zadeh
Girls MIP – Grace Bressner
Tim Mies Effort Award – Nate Farney
Ashley Wright Effort Award – Allie Bott
Rick Walden Most Consistent Award – Colin Burnett

Letterwinners

Lance Retz, Sr.
Sydney Steinbach, Sr.
Cyrus Zadeh, Sr.
Abby Bello, Jr.
Colin Burnett, Jr.v Nate Farney, Jr.
Kyla Franckey, Jr.
Mark Harbourt, Jr.
Aiden Hundley, Jr.
Kiah Riesel, Jr.
Grace Bressner, So.
Hunter Dilley, So.
Eli Franklin, So.
Nathan Hinkel, So.
Tessa Walker, So.
Sam Zadeh, So.
Ramsay Arnold, Fr.
Charlene Barbee, Fr.
Adam Bello, Fr.
Allie Bott, Fr.
Brady Johnson, Fr.
Caylah Roberts, Fr.
Taylor Vaughn, Fr.


More SJO Sports Articles

St Joseph Ogden varsity letter winners 2025, St Joseph Ogden fall sports awards list, SJO football cross country soccer 2025 season, IHSA state cross country St Joseph Ogden results, St Joseph Ogden High School athletics feature
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