Urbana Park District Toddler Art Play Group starts tomorrow

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Matt Sheehan
OSF Healthcare

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

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

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

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

Photo: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

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

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

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

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

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

· Stay home when you aren’t feeling well.

· Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer regularly.

· Cough or sneeze into your elbow.

· Wipe down high-touch surfaces with disinfectant wipes.

· Don’t share glasses or silverware with others.

· Receive the flu shot.

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

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

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

When is the right time to be seen?

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

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

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

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

Turn your bathroom into a spa-inspired oasis

Photo: BPT

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

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

1. Set a realistic budget

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

2. Choose the right materials

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

3. Invest in quality fixtures and features

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

4. Maximize natural light

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

5. Incorporate smart storage solutions

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

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

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

Unity Junior High School second-quarter High Honor Roll

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

6th Grade High Honor Roll

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

7th Grade High Honor Roll

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

8th Grade High Honor Roll

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

Unity Junior High second-quarter Honor Roll

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

6th Grade Honor Roll

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

7th Grade Honor Roll

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

8th Grade Honor Roll

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

Pre-workout supplements not for teen and youth athletes, a healthy diet is safer

by Matt Sheehan
OSF Healthcare

The question is should middle- or high school-aged kids use these supplements? The answer: Probably not.

PEORIA - Did you have a childhood hero? If so, you likely aspired to emulate them and their achievements.

Nowadays, your kids may see their favorite athlete or influencer using pre-workout supplements, whether on social media or in stores, to enhance their performance in the gym or on the field.

What are pre-workout supplements?

Photo: Aleksander Saks/Unsplash

Pre-workout supplements come in various names, flavors, and sizes. Some popular options are creatine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAA). While creatine and the main ingredient in most pre-workout supplements is caffeine, most BCAAs don’t contain caffeine.

These supplements are taken before a workout or athletic match with the goals of increasing endurance, muscle mass, and reducing recovery time. But the question is should middle- or high school-aged kids use these supplements? The answer: Probably not.

What are the risks of pre-workout supplements?

“These can cause increased heart rate or heart burn. You’re also taking a lot of supplements that are going straight to your gut. You can see some nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. They’re also not well-monitored, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) isn’t regulating these very closely,” says Erica Dawkins, a dietetic intern with OSF HealthCare.

Taking it further, kids with heart defects need to steer clear of these supplements.

“A lot of times we see defects or heart irregularities that somebody isn’t even aware of. They don’t know that until they take something like this and have an adverse event,” Dawkins says. “So, if you already know, avoid these because we don’t want to throw that heart into an abnormal rhythm it might not be able to come back from.”

What are the benefits of pre-workout supplements?

“A lot of them will already have beta-alanine or branched-chain amino acids which help improve recovery time and reduce fatigue,” Dawkins says. “We also see some nitrates used that help improve blood flow to the muscles.”

Most pre-workouts are intended for healthy adults in moderation. Pregnant and nursing women are generally advised to avoid them due to the high caffeine content.

“Focus first on making sure you’re having quality workouts, then introduce healthy nutrition,” Dawkins says. “We want to make sure we’re getting that nutrition throughout the day. Especially if we’re working out multiple times throughout the day. If you’re working out within two to four hours, make sure you’re getting a snack. We see a lot of benefits for pre-workout snacks or snacks during half-time. We also want to make sure we’re staying adequately hydrated.”

Dawkins says leafy and root vegetables like spinach, lettuce and beets are a great, natural option.

“Those have the natural nitrate in it. So, we’re getting the same effects we would from a pre-workout supplement, just in our regular diet,” Dawkins adds.

Having a conversation with your child’s pediatrician or sports medicine physician is extremely important if you are wondering what supplements should or should not be added into their routine.

Dirty nails and mouths don’t mix

by Tim Ditman
OSF Healthcare

DANVILLE - Emily Isom has a new year’s resolution for kids and their parents: pledge to keep your hands clean and away from your face to prevent the spread of illness.

Emily Isom

Isom, a certified medical assistant in pediatrics at OSF HealthCare, often sees young people biting dirty fingernails and not washing their hands properly. Here’s a primer:

Nail hygiene

Isom says people of all ages should trim their nails regularly. Once a week for fingernails and once or twice a month for toenails is a good rule of thumb. In between trimmings, watch for dirt and other filthy matter caught under the tip of the nail. Some nail clippers come with a scraper tool to remove that debris. But don’t use your mouth to clean your nails.

“Our nails carry so many germs and bacteria. That’s how people keep getting sick and spreading illness,” Isom warns, referring to putting fingernails in your mouth or on your face. You can also chip teeth and get facial warts and pimples from putting nails on your face, she says.

Some people have long nails, either real or artificial. In these cases, use a nail brush to regularly wipe the nails clean. If you’re at work or school and don’t have a brush, wash the nails thoroughly. Lather warm water and soap on the palms of your hands. Take your fingertips and scratch against the palm of the other hand to get the soap in the fingernail. Do that for 20 seconds. Then, pull down the fingertips to the palm of the same hand and massage the soap in further. Put your hands upside down under hot running water to rinse.

Hand washing

Isom says most people concentrate on their palms when hand washing.

“You need to get in between the fingers, underneath the nails, on the back of the hands, rub your knuckles together and scrub your wrists,” Isom says.

After wetting your hands, scrub all those areas in soap for 20 seconds. Find a song that has a 20-second chorus and hum it while you scrub. Then, rinse under warm water, and dry your hands with a clean, dry towel. Isom also suggests wrapping a paper towel around your hand when touching dirty surfaces on your way out of the bathroom. Use the towel to shut off the faucet and open the door, then throw the towel away after you exit.

If a hand dryer is what’s available, run your hands under the warm air until they are completely dry. Resist the urge to dry halfway and walk out. Isom says that may do more harm than good and attract bacteria faster.

“Bacteria want to live on wet surfaces. They’re attracted to moistness,” she points out.

If a soap and sink aren’t available, Isom says to use sanitizer or wipes that are at least 60% alcohol based. The same process applies – lather or wipe all parts of your hand and wrist thoroughly.

If you have a cut or wound on your hand, like a paper cut, wash with care.

“Get a washcloth wet with warm water. Put soap on it. Then, clean around the cut or wound,” Isom says. “Don’t put [soap] directly into the cut. That could really irritate it.” Handwashing

Convincing kids

Isom is a pediatrics provider and a mother. So, she knows getting kids to wash their hands and mind their nails is easier said than done. Her advice: make it fun.

“When handwashing, sing the ABCs for 20 seconds. Or have them sing to you.” Isom suggests. “Make a chart. Every time they wash their hands, have them put a sticker on the chart. They are going to fall in love with it and want to wash their hands over and over again.”

And remember Simon Says? Isom says it works with her daughter.

“Simon says don’t touch your face,” Isom says with a smirk.

Key takeaways:

Nail hygiene involves trimming and cleaning them regularly and keeping them away from your face.

You should also thoroughly wash and dry your hands and wrists often. Use a paper towel to grab surfaces like a doorknob in a public bathroom.

Don't put soap directly on a wound or cut.

When using sanitizer and wipes, choose ones that are at least 60% alcohol based.

For kids, turn hand hygiene into a game to encourage good habits.

Smart light combats screen eye strain from screen time

The ScreenBar Halo offers tech-driven eye comfort for computer users by supplying real-time auto-dimming light to soothe digital eye strain. Attach the device with a clamp, adjust lighting with the wireless controller, and enjoy the immersive illumination from the back light feature.

Photo: NAPSI

NAPSI - Research shows that remote workers spend over half of their day—13 hours on average—looking at screens. This much time spent looking at a computer can produce digital eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

It’s estimated that digital eye strain affects 60 million people worldwide, and over 70% of computer users. Resulting symptoms include headaches, blurry vision, neck and eye pain, double vision, delay in shifting focus, and more.

Sound familiar? If you’re experiencing digital eye strain from spending countless hours in front of a screen, you will be glad to know, BenQ’s tech-driven smart lights can offer a solution.

Digital eye strain is often caused by differences in light—screen glare, light reflection, screen brightness and contrast are all contributing factors. Renowned for its pioneering lighting solutions—including the world’s first monitor light bar, the ScreenBar—the company boasts a full line of smart lights that help reduce digital eye strain. Designed based on extensive research by a team of optical professionals and backed by EU IEC/IR 62778 and IEC/EN 62471 dual certifications for blue light hazards, these smart lights bring tech-driven eye comfort to computer users everywhere.

For someone needing a portable solution to mitigate insufficient computer light, BenQ’s new LaptopBar (https://bit.ly/4arLWb2) is ideal. This compact light bar attaches to your laptop via a non-damaging magnetic patch, and through an innovative process involving 20 million beam simulations, creates a CIRCUM-Light™ 3D-surrounding illumination that brings together central brightness and ambient light to alleviate eye strain.

The light bar also offers:

A personalized auto-dimming feature, which remembers your specific lighting preferences and intelligently adapts to changes in environmental light.

A foldable arm offering height adjustability for your smart light, letting you choose between a limited or wide field of light.

Weighing less than an iPhone 15 Pro, the LaptopBar is easy to transport and intuitive to use. A built-in battery can maintain 100 minutes of operation at 100% brightness and 160 minutes at 50% brightness, so you can use it anywhere.

An innovator of eye-comforting light for your monitor, BenQ’s ScreenBar Halo securely clamps onto most monitor models to distribute light around your workspace. It features:

BenQ’s first immersive back lighting mode, which lets you switch among three lighting modes to balance any contrasting light between your computer screen and its surroundings.

An ASYM-Light™ asymmetrical optical design that prevents reflected glare on the screen and reduces digital eye strain; and a real-time auto-dimming feature with a built-in light sensor detects ambient lighting and supplements illumination of the desktop as needed.

The wireless controller lets you switch lighting modes from your desktop and customize the lighting for a range of environments.

You can take care of your eyes by supplying the light relief they need. Your screen time likely won’t be decreasing any time soon, but with smart lighting solutions like BenQ’s LaptopBar and ScreenBar Halo, you can decrease eye strain and promote eye comfort no matter how much time you spend in front of a screen.

For additional information and resources on improving eye health, visit: https://www.benq.com/en-us/lighting.html.

Tolono chess club is forming

TOLONO - A new chess club is taking shape in Tolono. Organizer Jonny Bates has created a Facebook page for Tolono area chess players to meet once or twice a month. To learn more, follow this link: Tolono Area Chess Players

Making space:
Freestanding units are a popular choice for people who want more room

NAPSI - If you are like many homeowners seeking to enhance your property and support your lifestyle interests, adding a freestanding hobby shop, home office, vehicle storage building, or recreational facility can be a great idea.

Photo: NAPSI

Building a freestanding unit on your property versus renting a retail location might be advantageous for a small business owner or an avid hobbyist. While renting commercial space offers more immediate flexibility and lower initial investment, generally it is better for small businesses with limited access to capital or needing a shorter rental commitment. On the other hand, owning a freestanding building might be a much better option.

Owning a freestanding structure does comes with challenges, including higher upfront costs, responsibilities for maintenance and repairs, and potential zoning or permitting issues if used for a business operation. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your current and projected financial position and long-term goals. The first step is to talk with a financial advisor, an insurance carrier, and your attorney to make an informed decision.

There are several advantages to having your own building on property you already own.

A freestanding building can provide you with increased equity over time. As the property value appreciates, it will increase the overall value of your land with the improvement. Since you own the property, you have control over how and when it is used. No more worrying about negotiating new leases, rent increases, security deposits, or restrictions imposed by landlords. From a profit/loss perspective, this can be crucial for long-term business planning.

While the initial investment for building a structure might be higher, in the long run, you may save money when comparing the aggregate rent paid over a three-, five-, or ten-year period. Plus, once the building paid off, your business becomes more profitable almost overnight with no mortgage or rental expenses.

Another advantage is you can customize your space just the way you want it. Constructing your own building allows you complete control over its aesthetics, creating a unique and distinctive space. Building on your property provides flexibility in terms of size and functionality. You can design the space to meet your specific business needs.

While in the planning stages, one should also allow for future expansion or modifications if you can not afford to build your dream space right off the bat.

Don't need space for your side gig or business, but need space to pursue your passion? What can be better than having an MMA or CrossFit gym just a few feet from your backdoor? Need a space to restore and maintain vintage vehicles? How about a space for your band to rehearse? A freestanding building is just the ticket.

For hobby enthusiasts, freestanding building projects range from a small garage to an elaborate workshop to support a wide range of interests, such as woodworking, classic car restoration, various collections, or simply for storage of equipment and tools, said Andy Brown, Morton Buildings suburban product line manager. Also popular are man caves and she sheds, which offer a place to get away to relax and unwind, enjoy hobbies, and spend time with friends.

"Our customers have used their Morton buildings for such diverse interests as an art studio, a family game room, a space for music and instruments, doing meditation and yoga, brewing beer and exercising," Brown noted. "Some couples split the space in their hobby building so they each have separate areas for their own interests."

Many owners of boats, RVs, and other recreational vehicles, such as motorcycles and ATVs, he added, want an attractive, well-designed storage facility to protect and enhance the enjoyment of those assets. Many of these vehicle storage facilities also have amenities such as an office, kitchenette, lounge, bathroom, and space for hobbies.

"Homeowners want a building that will not only support their hobby and recreational needs but is also stylish and can be customized to complement the existing structures on the property with design features such as brick and stone, cupolas and porches," he said.

This week's SJO sports calendar

SJO's Emmitt Holt is stone-cold after his second period pin over Oakwood's Steven Uden in their 106-pound match on December 5. Holt and the Spartans have a jammed-pack week of wrestling, starting with a home meet with South Vermilion High School from Indiana Tuesday at 6pm, followed by tri-meet at Centennial on Wednesday. Friday and Saturday, the St. Joseph-Ogden wrestling team will head to Tolono for the Illini Prairie Conference Meet.

Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden Athletics this week

Tanner Jacob goes up for a shot around Pinckneyville's Ty Laur and Riley Bauersachs in the second half of their Christie Clinic Shootout game on Saturday. Jacob led SJO's scoring effort with 20 points, three assists, and one steal. His output was not enough to help St. Joseph-Ogden past the Panthers, who won the contest 75-57. The Spartans take to the floor again tomorrow night at Teutopolis and are at home Friday to host the Pontiac Indians for an Illini Prairie Conference game.

Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

This week's Unity athletics calendar

Unity's Raegen Stringer goes up for shot

Raegen Stringer goes up for a shot between two Mahomet-Seymour players during the Rockets' home game on December 11. The Unity girls basketball team dive into Illini Prairie Conference play tonight with a road trip to St. Thomas More and host Rantoul at the Rocket Center on Thursday.

Photo: UnityPhotos/Jamie Price

Athletic Schedule

WAY TO GO!

15-0 and still on a roll: Unity punish Raiders at shootout

Henry Thomas goes up for a shot in the second half of Unity's game against Quincy Notre Dame. The Rockets took control of the game early and walked away with their record untarnished at 15-0 at the Christie Clinic Shootout at St. Joseph-Ogden High School on Saturday. Unity is back in action this Friday in East Peoria, where they will face 2-12 Limestone High School.

PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

Five earn Player-of-the-Game recognition at Christie Clinic Shootout

St. Joseph - After each of the seven games at the Christie Clinic Shootout at St. Joseph-Ogden High School on Saturday, the best player in each contest was awarded a player-of-the-game plaque. Here's a look at the seven recipients and how they did.

Christopher Benning

Streator

Christopher Benning poses with his Player-of-the-Game award with St. Joseph-Ogden tournament and athletic director Justin Franzen. Benning scored 11 points in the fourth quarter to fuel Streators' come from behind victory in the first game of day at the Christie Clinic Shootout. Tallying 23 points, his last quarter effort resulted in 60-53 win over Normal Community West on Saturday.

Miles Kirin

Normal U-High Normal University High's Miles Kirin

Going 6-for-6 from the free-throw line, Normal University Miles Kirin led all scorers with 18 points in his team's decisive 68-42 win over Carterville in Game 2. The 6-foot-1 senior drained eight of his total points in the fourth quarter.

Trey Welter

Monticello

Monticello improved their record to 8-8 after a 19-point performance from 5-foot-5 senior Trey Welter against New Berlin (11-4). Behind Welter's second through third quarter outburst and a solid team defensive effort, the Sages defeated the Pretzels, 57-26.

Photos: PhotoNews Media / Clark Brooks

Order full-size reprints

Nick Allen

Bradley-Bourbonnais Bradley-Bourbonnais' Nick Allen

Nick Allen hit ten field goals and drained four free throws, finishing with 22 points in Boilermakers' 62-61 win over the Maroons of Belleville West (7-8). Down 16-9 at the end of the first quarter, Bradley-Bourbonnais (12-4) continued to trail on the scoreboard through the first three quarters to later pull out the W thanks Allen's six 4th-quarter points.

Andrew Thomas

Unity

Unity's Andrew Thomas was named Player-of-the-Game after he finished with 13 points. The team's relentless defense and attacking offense paid dividends against Quincy Notre Dame (9-7). Thomas, a senior starter, collected all of his points in first half. After 15 games and the 58-35 win, Thomas and the Rockets are still undefeated.

AJ Keith

Pinckneyville

Panther AJ Keith was the top shooter of the day, finishing with a game-high 33 points against shootout host St. Joseph-Ogden (13-3). The 6-foot-4 Pinckneyville shooting guard made 13 of his 14 free-throw attempts to defeat the Spartans, 72-57.

JC Anderson

Mt. Zion

After scoring 18 points in the first half, Mt. Zion's JC Anderson received the nod as player-of-the-game in the final game of the day. Anderson added another four to his total in the second half, finishing with 22 points in the Braves 64-49 win over Washington. Like Unity, Mt. Zion came, saw, and conquered the Panthers (9-7) to remain undefeated at 17-0.