CHICAGO - The Illinois Theatre Association will recognize eight theatre professionals and educators as the recipients of the 2024 Award of Excellence. The awards will be presented at a brunch during the association's annual meeting on August 3, 2024, at the Copley Theatre in Aurora.
The keynote speaker is actor Gene Weygandt. He has appeared in a host of films, television shows, and on Broadway. His acting credits on screen include The Birdcage, Babe, and Mea Culpa. He has appeared in televised episodes of Home Improvement, Cybil, Murphy Brown, Chicago Fire, Empire, and Chicago Med.
The Chicago-based actor also had roles in Broadway productions, including BIG: The Musical, Wicked, and Come From Away.
This year's 2024 Awards of Excellence include:
Creative Drama/Theatre for Young Audiences:
The Children's Theatre of Elgin and Fox Valley Theatre Company
Accepting the Award is Veronica Comings, President
Secondary School Theatre:
J.R. Willard-Rose (Homewood- Flossmoor HS)
College/University Theatre:
Kevin Long (Harper College, Chicago Shakespeare Theater)
Community Theatre:
Joseph Ennenbach (Stage 212, Morris Theater Guild, Streator Engle Lane, and Princeton's Festival 56)
Professional Theatre:
James Calitri (Artistic Director, Festival 56)
2024 Awards of Honor, ITA Non-Member:
John Collins (Executive Director, Goodman Theatre)
2024 Awards of Honor, ITA Member:
Richard Arnold, Jr. (Production Coordinator, College of DuPage)
Anne Thurman Mentorship Award:
Patricia Haynes, 1950-2024
Mother McAuley HS, founder of 99th Street Summer Theatre
Accepting the Award is Erin Fitzpatrick
For more information and registration to this year's event go to https://illinoistheatre.org/event-4897079.
CHICAGO - Addressing mental illness in America is a source of continued debate and a new report outlined areas in need of change.
The study detailed the role of response teams in a mental health episode.
Andy Wade, executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness-Illinois, sees a need to strengthen the disconnection between the 988 system and the services and facilities supporting post-crisis recovery services.
"The progress has been positive but we need more," Wade asserted. "The crisis system isn't just the phone call. It's also about having a safe and appropriate mental health response, even if that means someone coming out to the house."
He called the system "a work in progress" and emphasized 988 operators should have the tools they need to make immediate handoffs to the right services. Wade acknowledged while law enforcement does a good job, there is often an overdependence on police officers who are not always the best responders. He is encouraged by Illinois legislators' commitment to the crisis system, and wants to continue the forward momentum on funding started by state lawmakers.
The crisis system in Illinois allows people to use it regardless of their ability to pay, which the report highlights as a success.
Angela Kimball, chief advocacy officer for the mental health advocacy organization Inseparable, said state lawmakers are the key to change.
"Lawmakers across the country need to understand, one, what does the system look like? And two, what is their role in helping make this happen?" Kimball outlined. "There is no one entity, no one person, that can make a new crisis response system happen."
She added the challenge for lawmakers is to navigate the complex emergency service regulations in place in order to create effective legislation. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker signed House Bill 2595 in 2021, requiring insurance companies to cover medically necessary mental health care services.
Trump campaigned on a promise to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, or ACA. In the White House, Trump supported a failed effort to do just that. He repeatedly said he would dismantle the health care law in campaign stops and social media posts throughout 2023.
President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Democratic and Republican presidential nominees, shared a debate stage June 27 for the first time since 2020, in a confrontation that — because of strict debate rules — managed to avoid the near-constant interruptions that marred their previous encounters.
Biden, who spoke in a raspy voice and often struggled to articulate his arguments, said at one point that his administration “finally beat Medicare.” Trump, meanwhile, repeated numerous falsehoods, including that Democrats want doctors to be able to abort babies after birth.
Illustration: Richard Duijnstee/Pixabay
Trump took credit for the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision that upended Roe v. Wade and returned abortion policy to states. “This is what everybody wanted,” he said, adding “it’s been a great thing.” Biden’s response: “It’s been a terrible thing.”
In one notable moment, Trump said he would not repeal FDA approval for medication abortion, used last year in nearly two-thirds of U.S. abortions. Some conservatives have targeted the FDA’s more than 20-year-old approval of the drug mifepristone to further restrict access to abortion nationwide.
“The Supreme Court just approved the abortion pill. And I agree with their decision to have done that, and I will not block it,” Trump said. The Supreme Court ruled this month that an alliance of anti-abortion medical groups and doctors lacked standing to challenge the FDA’s approval of the drug. The court’s ruling, however, did not amount to an approval of the drug.
CNN hosted the debate, which had no audience, at its Atlanta headquarters. CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash moderated. The debate format allowed CNN to mute candidates’ microphones when it wasn’t their turn to speak.
Our PolitiFact partners fact-checked the debate in real time as Biden and Trump clashed on the economy, immigration, and abortion, and revisited discussion of their ages. Biden, 81, has become the oldest sitting U.S. president; if Trump defeats him, he would end his second term at age 82. You can read the full coverage here and excerpts detailing specific health-related claims follow:
Biden: “We brought down the price [of] prescription drug[s], which is a major issue for many people, to $15 for an insulin shot, as opposed to $400.”
Half True. Biden touted his efforts to reduce prescription drug costs by referring to the $35 monthly insulin price cap his administration put in place as part of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. But he initially flubbed the number during the debate, saying it was lowered to $15. In his closing statement, Biden corrected the amount to $35.
The price of insulin for Medicare enrollees, starting in 2023, dropped to $35 a month, not $15. Drug pricing experts told PolitiFact when it rated a similar claim that most Medicare enrollees were likely not paying a monthly average of $400 before the changes, although because costs vary depending on coverage phases and dosages, some might have paid that much in a given month.
Trump: “I’m the one that got the insulin down for the seniors.”
Mostly False. When he was president, Trump instituted the Part D Senior Savings Model, a program that capped insulin costs at $35 a month for some older Americans in participating drug plans.
But because it was voluntary, only 38% of all Medicare drug plans, including Medicare Advantage plans, participated in 2022, according to KFF. Trump’s plan also covered only one form of each dosage and insulin type.
Biden points to the Inflation Reduction Act’s mandatory $35 monthly insulin cap as a major achievement. This cap applies to all Medicare prescription plans and expanded to all covered insulin types and dosages. Although Trump’s model was a start, it did not have the sweeping reach that Biden’s mandatory cap achieved.
Biden: Trump “wants to get rid of the ACA again.”
Half True. In 2016, Trump campaigned on a promise to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, or ACA. In the White House, Trump supported a failed effort to do just that. He repeatedly said he would dismantle the health care law in campaign stops and social media posts throughout 2023. In March, however, Trump walked back this stance, writing on his Truth Social platform that he “isn’t running to terminate” the ACA but to make it “better” and “less expensive.” Trump hasn’t said how he would do this. He has often promised Obamacare replacement plans without ever producing one.
Trump: “The problem [Democrats] have is they’re radical, because they will take the life of a child in the eighth month, the ninth month, and even after birth.”
False. Willfully terminating a newborn’s life is infanticide and illegal in every U.S. state.
Most elected Democrats who have spoken publicly about this have said they support abortion under Roe v. Wade’s standard, which allowed access up to fetal viability — typically around 24 weeks of pregnancy, when the fetus can survive outside the womb. Many Democrats have also said they support abortions past this point if the treating physician deems it necessary.
Medical experts say situations resulting in fetal death in the third trimester are rare — fewer than 1% of abortions in the U.S. occur after 21 weeks — and typically involve fatal fetal anomalies or life-threatening emergencies affecting the pregnant person. For fetuses with very short life expectancies, doctors may induce labor and offer palliative care. Some families choose this option when facing diagnoses that limit their babies’ survival to minutes or days after delivery.
Some Republicans who have made claims similar to Trump’s point to Democratic support of the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2022, which would have prohibited many state government restrictions on access to abortion, citing the bill’s provisions that say providers and patients have the right to perform and receive abortion services without certain limitations or requirements that would impede access. Anti-abortion advocates say the bill, which failed in the Senate by a 49-51 vote, would have created a loophole that eliminated any limits on abortions later in pregnancy.
Alina Salganicoff, director of KFF’s Women’s Health Policy program, said the legislation would have allowed health providers to perform abortions without obstacles such as waiting periods, medically unnecessary tests and in-person visits, or other restrictions. The bill would have allowed an abortion after viability when, according to the bill, “in the good-faith medical judgment of the treating health care provider, continuation of the pregnancy would pose a risk to the pregnant patient’s life or health.”
Trump: “Social Security, he’s destroying it, because millions of people are pouring into our country, and they’re putting them onto Social Security. They’re putting them onto Medicare, Medicaid.”
False. It’s wrong to say that immigration will destroy Social Security. Social Security’s fiscal challenges stem from a shortage of workers compared with beneficiaries.
Immigration is far from a fiscal fix-all for Social Security’s challenges. But having more immigrants in the United States would likely increase the worker-to-beneficiary ratio, potentially for decades, thus extending the program’s solvency.
Most immigrants in the U.S. without legal permission are also ineligible for Social Security. However, people who entered the U.S. without authorization and were granted humanitarian parole — temporary permission to stay in the country — for more than one year are eligible for benefits from the program.
Immigrants lacking legal residency in the U.S. are generally ineligibleto enroll in federally funded health care coverage such as Medicare and Medicaid. (Some states provide Medicaid coverage under state-funded programs regardless of immigration status. Immigrants are eligible for emergency Medicaid regardless of their legal status.)
KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF.
Subscribe to KFF Health News' free Morning Briefing.
Words are easier than actions. For example, “for better, for worse.” Couples traditionally say these words when they marry. They mean the words at the time. They have no idea what they are saying.
No one can really know what they are saying because they are clueless what the future will bring. Sticking together in marriage is easier when it’s all “for better”. Often life changes direction and it seems everything becomes “for worse.”
Financial difficulties, troubled children, aging parents, life failures, addictions, personality disorders and sickness all have a way of cooling the marital flame.
When a couple first marries everything is about love and nothing else matters. However, eventually everyone faces problems. Sometimes they come early in life and sometimes not until the later years of life. Make no mistake, if you and your spouse live long enough you will face difficulties that will mentally and physically push you to and beyond your limits.
We have to grasp the fact that no matter who you live with there will come a time when you will be a caregiver or need someone to take care of you. The only way to avoid this is to die while you are still physically and mentally independent. There is some kind of weird blessing about just falling over dead or not waking up one morning. It’s a shock to those left behind but you avoid the nursing home and some of the crippling disabilities that eventually happen in life.
None of us want to just fall over dead during our active years. We all want to live to a 100 and then just suddenly move over into heaven. This may be the way you will go and maybe you won’t. None of us know how our lives will end. I suppose it’s best that we don’t know.
If you are blessed with a mate, reach a mutual understanding early on that you are going to see each other through the tough times. It might be all on you to do the caregiving and that’s never easy but it’s easier than being the one inflicted with the illness. If you are the caregiver you can get some rest and restore. The person who is sick never gets a break.
Sadly, some people can’t hold out and give up. People are human beings and not machines. People wear down and are often unable to cope when sickness and troubles are more than they can handle. Try to not be condemning of these people as you are not the one living their lives.
If two people can mutually hang tight through the “for worse” period of life they can help each other to discover a little more “better” even during the very worst of times.
For more insights into this column please read First Corinthians chapter 13 from the Bible. Keep in mind that hard times are not easy times but you can find joy and peace by seeing yourself and your mate through the “worse” times of life.
He 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. 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.
SAVOY - Andrew Hall made local union history, winning the Illinois Pipe Trades state plumbing championship for apprentices in March and taking the district title in June to advance to the United Association Apprentice International Contest in August. Hall, a member of Local 149, is the first East Central Illinois resident to advance to the association's national championship in the plumbing division.
Hall, who earned the District 4 title in Iowa two weeks ago, beating state champion apprentices from 10 other states, will be back in action next month when will go head-to-head against six other district champions from around the country in Ann Arbor, MI.
“It was a very tough competition and it was time-limited, so it was pretty stressful,” Hall said. “The competition was so good, I really thought any one of those other guys could’ve won it. Then I won and was just in disbelief for a couple of hours after that.”
Hall and the competition were tested on plumbing knowledge and skills, including a project involving a mocked-up wall needing pipes and water lines. Certified training directors then graded the work of the state champions from Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Hall will now go up against five other district champions.
“Every day is like a puzzle and you have to figure things out,” he said. “I really enjoy it.”
In addition to winning the district championship, Hall recently graduated from Local 149’s five-year apprentice program, where he and 26 other apprentices spent 240 hours in class and 1,700 hours on the job each year. Employed at United Mechanical in Champaign throughout his apprenticeship, the June graduate travels the country as a journeyman plumber.
St. Joseph-Ogden senior Justice Wertz carries the ball after a hand off from Logan Smith during his team's 2023 home opener against Monticello last fall. See more photos from this game here.
ST. JOSEPH - Exactly two months from today, the Spartans' offensive backfield will feature several new faces in key positions. The team finished the past season 8-3 overall, in the Illini Prairie Conference, and will open on the road at Monticello on August 30. SJO's regular season schedule features just four home contests.
Here is a look at the upcoming 2023-2024 schedule.
8/30 @ Monticello 7:00pm
9/6 • Tolono Unity 7:00pm
9/13 @ Prairie Central 7:00pm
9/20 @ Illinois Valley Central 7:00pm
9/27 • Carterville 7:00pm
10/4 @ Bloomington Central Catholic 7:00pm
10/11 • Pontiac 7:00pm
10/18 @ Rantoul 7:00pm
10/25 • Paxton-Buckley-Loda 7:00pm
The Illinois Department of Employment Security indicates 16 to 24-year-olds have had the highest unemployment rate among all age groups - including those at retirement age - since 2017.
Great Cities Institute Research Assistant Samantha Sepulveda Santos said some neighborhoods are struggling more than others.
"We can see," said Sepulveda Santos, "that the highest percentages of joblessness among students in Chicago - which is 93% - were found in areas in the South and Southwest. In Hilton, Bridgeport, McKinley Park, Fuller Park, and Back of the Yards."
Recovery time from pandemic-related shutdowns in the Chicago Public Schools system was slower than other area districts, according to the report.
Sepulveda Santos said she believes this data supports the necessity to implement programming for equal employment opportunities.
The report claims more than 163,000 16 to 24-year-olds in Chicago are unemployed and not enrolled in high school or college.
Sepulveda Santos acknowledged that competition is harder for these youths to enter a trade school to receive technical training for in-demand jobs - which could contribute to higher disparity numbers.
"And another factor we allude to as well is that not all people have the same opportunities," said Sepulveda Santos. "Not all people have the same networking, the same preparation for cover letters, for interviews. Most people have a leg up to be able to ask an aunt, an uncle, a neighbor for a job, as other people do."
The institute is seeking funding for a youth employment training program to teach teens about applying for jobs and being productive workers upon hire.
The study also suggests if Illinois spent $300 million on youth employment, crime rates could be reduced.
Recently, I was taking a late night walk in Owenton, Kentucky. Owenton is a little town of maybe six hundred people in rural north central Kentucky. I had just finished watching the sad Biden-Trump debate and decided that a walk and some ice cream sounded good.
I walked to our local convenience store which is about a half mile from where I was staying in Owenton. It was a beautiful summer night and I only saw two cars on the road in route to the store. I bought an ice cream bar and had it eaten within twenty steps of the store when the only car I saw on the way home pulled up beside me and someone asked, “Sir, are you alright?”
It was the local city police. I responded, “Yes sir, I’m doing fine.”
He asked, “Would you like a ride home?” To which I replied, “No sir, I’m just out for a walk.”
He then asked, “Have you been drinking?”
I replied, “No sir, just been eating a Snicker’s Ice Cream Bar.”
He continued, “Are you sure?”
“Yes sir, I’m sure.”
He then asked, “Where are you going?” I told him the street which was only about five more minutes of walking time.
I thought all was well as he and another policeman drove off but they made a U-turn and pulled right back up in front of me. The cop got out of the car and told me he wanted to do a breathalyzer test.
I’ve never had one in my life. I agreed to it. He was right in the middle of the street. I walked out to meet him and he told me to
blow into the straw. I complied. He shook his head because, of course, the test was negative.
The officer told me his name and I responded by telling him mine and we shook hands. He told me to be safe walking home. He then wanted to know exactly where I lived and I gave him the street name and house number.
As I walked up the street and neared home, I looked up. Once again, he and the other officer passed by. I suppose they were checking to see if I went where I said I was going.
This was really dramatic and over the top. I was simply taking a walk.
I wasn’t falling into the street or staggering from one side to the other. I was walking. He had no cause to stop and embarrass me but called me out into the middle of the street for a breathalyzer. Fortunately, not one car drove by while he was doing that. It’s a small town and no one was out at 11:10 at night.
Almost no one gets out and walks in this town. If anybody has to go to the local convenience store, they drive their car even it’s just a block or two. Thus, maybe the police thought if someone was out walking then surely the person had to be up to no good or intoxicated.
I’m, very supportive of the police. I’m appreciative of all who work to keep us safe. We need good police officers protecting us. However, this was ridiculous.
Don’t harass people just because you are bored and have nothing else to do.
I feel sorry for the many people in this nation who have been racially profiled for years. They are often pulled over because they are Black or a different nationality. Sometimes people are pulled over if they are driving a red sports car or if they are someone who is an “outsider.”
Often small towns can be very cliquish. If they don’t know who you are or if you are not “one” of the community residents then you are immediately profiled as an outsider and outsiders are often disliked, shunned or just treated badly.
Freedom to move about the country is a wonderful privilege. Let us be appreciative of our freedom this fourth of July week.
He 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. 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.
You’ve heard the term “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Well, how about, “tomatoes each week, keeps your health at peak?”
Not only are these bright red, juicy fruits filled with vitamins and minerals, but they can also lessen the risk of cancer, says Katrina Sommer, an advanced clinical dietitian with OSF HealthCare.
“They have these extra ‘bonus nutrients’ we call phytochemicals. They’re found in plant foods, and these help us fight inflammation and act as an antioxidant. This helps get the free radicals out of there that lessen the risk for cancer development,” Sommer says.
Photo: Yves Deploige/Unsplash
Sommer and her team at the OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria, Illinois work alongside cancer patients on what diet is best for them to fight cancer. She says plant foods play a huge role.
“We know a diet that is mostly plant-based, can help lower our risk for cancer and other diseases like heart disease and diabetes,” Sommer says. “It helps us keep a healthy weight, too.”
What is Lycopene?
“Lycopene is one of those phytochemicals. There’s a lot of different groups of these phytochemicals. One of them is called carotenoids. Carotenoids a lot of times will give the plant food its color. Lycopene is a type of carotenoid and gives the tomato that bright red or orange color,” Sommer says. “Lycopene is also found in watermelon, grapefruit and is the red or pink color you see.”
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) identified 72 human and animal studies and concluded that lycopene contained anti-cancer activities. Now, the NIH says the next step is to identify a population that might benefit from lycopene supplementation.
“It’s been shown that eating tomatoes a couple times a week can help lessen the risk of metastatic prostate cancer,” Sommer adds.
Cook tomatoes and drizzle olive oil
“These need to be absorbed very well in our system. To do that, cook them and you can drizzle olive oil on them so we can absorb those nutrients optimally,” Sommer says.
What if I don’t like tomatoes?
“Think of those tomato foods that are cooked. Tomato sauce or tomato soup are good options. They help absorb the lycopene and carotenoids that are in there. So, it doesn’t just have to be a fresh tomato on a salad, you can eat it cooked as well,” Sommer says.
How can red meat or processed meat affect my risk for cancer?
“Something to consider is how much meat you’re eating, especially red meat and processed meat. Too much of these can raise the risk of developing cancer,” Sommer says. “Same with drinking alcohol. We want to lower the amount of alcohol we drink or avoid it if we can.”
Another food factor to consider if you want to avoid cancer - Sommer says to watch out how much added sugar you have in your diet. Too much added sugar intake can affect our weight in negative ways, while not providing any beneficial nutrition. Sodas are a part of this equation due to the added sugar and lack of beneficial nutrition they offer.
“Eating too much fast food or processed food doesn’t have the nutrients we need. It might not have the fiber we get in the plant foods. It doesn’t really help our bodies fight inflammation or cancer risk, so it can raise the risk for cancer developing,” Sommer says.
Overall, Sommer recommends being more mindful of your overall diet and considering the foods and drinks you’re bringing into your body if you want to do everything you can to prevent cancer.
SNS - Are you gearing up for a summer trip abroad? Excitement and adventure await as you plan to explore new territories. This guide is to help you with essential preparations to make your experience abroad both rewarding and smooth.
Getting to know your destination's cultural norms and everyday practices will enhance your interactions. And you will also want to understand the local weather to help you pack appropriately. Also, don't overlook crucial aspects like health safety and necessary vaccinations. Read on for a detailed preparation guide that will equip you with knowledge and tips for an unforgettable summer adventure.
Researching Your Destination
Proper preparation can transform your summer trip abroad into a fantastic one. Knowing about the place you plan to visit is key.
Local Culture
Start by exploring local traditions and social norms. This insight helps you respect and engage with the community more deeply. Learning basic greetings in the local language also shows respect and can enhance your interactions. Attending local events can offer a real taste of the cultural scene.
Next, investigate the local cuisine, which often reflects a place’s cultural heritage and values. Trying traditional dishes can provide an authentic connection to the area and its people. Furthermore, familiarizing yourself with local laws and regulations ensures you navigate your travels consciously, avoiding any unintentional disrespect or complications.
Health and Safety
Lastly, look into health precautions. Research any vaccinations you might need and where you can find medical facilities if required. Knowing emergency numbers and the area's safety landscape will help you manage potential risks. Also, check for any travel advisories or updates related to health issues in the area. Before departing, confirm the availability and locations of hospitals or clinics near your accommodations. Stay updated by subscribing to real-time health and travel advisory board alerts for any last-minute developments impacting your destination.
Travel Documents and Finances
Securing travel documents and properly managing finances can set the tone for a stress-free adventure abroad.
Passport and Visas
First, check that your passport will remain valid for at least six months after your planned return date. Many countries require this for entry. Next, look into visa requirements for your destination well ahead of time. Some countries allow easy online applications, whereas others might necessitate visiting an embassy or consulate.
Handling Your Money Wisely
Subsequently, turn your attention to financial preparations. Start by informing your bank of travel dates to avoid frozen accounts due to unusual foreign transactions. Exchanging some currency prior to departure avoids high airport fees. Consider a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees for daily expenses. Finally, creating a detailed travel budget helps keep your spending on track, allowing you to enjoy local attractions and cuisine worry-free.
Packing Smart
When preparing for a trip abroad, packing can make or break your experience.
Essential Items for Varied Climates
Checking historical weather patterns during your travel period helps you pack appropriately. Always prepare for sudden weather changes, which might require a mix of lightweight and warmer clothing. Include versatile pieces that can adapt to both indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Furthermore, consider the practicality of layering your outfits. Carrying items like scarves, cardigans, and breathable jackets allows you to adjust comfortably to fluctuating temperatures without overpacking. Also, waterproof footwear and a sturdy umbrella are wise choices for unexpected rain showers, ensuring you stay dry and can continue exploring regardless of the weather.
Don’t Leave without your Tech Tools
Tech gadgets simplify travel. A universal adapter, a power bank, and a good pair of headphones are must-haves. So, don’t forget to add them to your luggage. On top of that, apps for navigation and translation prove invaluable.
Packing Strategies
For smart packing, rolling clothes instead of folding saves space and reduces wrinkles. Similarly, vacuum-seal bags can compress bulky items like jackets or beach towels.
However, if you want to ship over larger and more fragile items, you should let specialists handle packing. Lippincott Van Lines, a company with decades of experience that offers national and international moving, storage, and logistics services, can take care of packing and safe transportation.
Final Preparations Before Departure
As you count down the days to your departure, meticulous planning becomes crucial. Start by finalizing your itinerary. Include major landmarks, local eateries, and some leisure time to explore spontaneously. Don’t forget to confirm reservations and double-check transport schedules.
Next, secure your home. Arrange for a neighbor to keep an eye on your property, set timers for your lights, and consider a temporary mail hold. This step prevents any unwelcome surprises upon your return. Additionally, streamline your communication by setting up an autoresponder for your email. Inform colleagues and clients about your travel dates, ensuring no one expects immediate responses during your time away.
Before you set off, perform a final health check. Visit your doctor for any last-minute vaccines or prescriptions. Also, pack a travel medical kit tailored to your destination’s specific risks, like insect repellent for tropical climates or altitude sickness pills for mountainous regions.
Lastly, recheck your travel documents a day before leaving. Ensure your passport, visa, and insurance details are accessible. Keeping digital copies on your phone or in an online drive offers an extra layer of security. With these steps completed, you’re ready to embrace your adventure abroad with confidence.
So, as you prepare for your summer trip abroad, here are a few final thoughts.
First, research your destination thoroughly to respect local customs and optimally enjoy your stay. Second, ensure all travel documents are up to date and understand the financial landscape of your destination for hassle-free experiences. Also, pack efficiently to make navigating foreign locales less daunting.
Finally, a well-thought-out departure plan ensures you leave nothing to chance. Embrace these tips and set off on your adventure equipped for an unforgettable and rewarding experience. Safe travels!
Taking on one of personal care's least-talked-about problems
(PRNewswire) Chicago -- There are products for sweaty armpits, sweaty feet and sweaty faces. But when sweat shows up somewhere a little less comfortable to talk about, the options get limited fast.
Chicago-based Cheek Sheets is looking to change that.
Cheek Sheets today announced the launch of its namesake absorbent sheets, an ultra-thin, dry and discreet personal-care product designed to help absorb sweat and manage unwanted moisture between the cheeks before it becomes uncomfortable, embarrassing or funky.
Discover the headlines published on each of these days from our news and sports coverage from 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.
The keynote speaker is actor Gene Weygandt. He has appeared in a host of films, television shows, and on Broadway. His acting credits on screen include The Birdcage, Babe, and Mea Culpa. He has appeared in televised episodes of Home Improvement, Cybil, Murphy Brown, Chicago Fire, Empire, and Chicago Med.
The Chicago-based actor also had roles in Broadway productions, including BIG: The Musical, Wicked, and Come From Away.
This year's 2024 Awards of Excellence include:
Creative Drama/Theatre for Young Audiences:
Hall, who earned the District 4 title in Iowa two weeks ago, beating state champion apprentices from 10 other states, will be back in action next month when will go head-to-head against six other district champions from around the country in Ann Arbor, MI.
“It was a very tough competition and it was time-limited, so it was pretty stressful,” Hall said. “The competition was so good, I really thought any one of those other guys could’ve won it. Then I won and was just in disbelief for a couple of hours after that.”
Hall and the competition were tested on plumbing knowledge and skills, including a project involving a mocked-up wall needing pipes and water lines. Certified training directors then graded the work of the state champions from Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Hall will now go up against five other district champions.
“Every day is like a puzzle and you have to figure things out,” he said. “I really enjoy it.”
In addition to winning the district championship, Hall recently graduated from Local 149’s five-year apprentice program, where he and 26 other apprentices spent 240 hours in class and 1,700 hours on the job each year. Employed at United Mechanical in Champaign throughout his apprenticeship, the June graduate travels the country as a journeyman plumber.
