Fifty-eight admirals and generals, along with 3,600 economists, press leaders to confront climate change with urgency and bipartisan resolve.
byTerry Hansen Guest Commentary
When it comes to climate change, many competing voices can be hard to sort through. But some of the clearest guidance has come from those who know the stakes best.
Fifty-eight former U.S. national security leaders, including 35 admirals and generals, sent a letter on climate change to President Donald Trump during his first term. This extraordinary letter states: “Climate change is real, it is happening now, it is driven by humans, and it is accelerating.” These senior military and national security leaders also assert that “climate change is a direct threat to the national security of the United States,” and that addressing it should be seen “as a threat reduction issue, not a political one.”
Meanwhile, over 3,600 economists, including 28 Nobel Prize-winners and top economic advisers to presidents of both parties, have endorsed a plan to fight climate change. Their “Economists' Statement on Carbon Dividends" advocates putting a consistently rising price on carbon dioxide emissions and returning the money to the American people.
This statement concludes that the price signal will encourage technological innovation and steer our economy toward a low-carbon future. Returning the revenue to households will shield consumers from rising energy prices, and “the majority of families, including the most vulnerable, will benefit financially.” A border carbon adjustment would protect U.S. competitiveness and encourage other nations to adopt their own carbon pricing systems.
When the admirals, generals, and Nobel economists are saying the same thing, the message is simple: act now.
Terry Hansen is a retired educator who writes frequently about climate change. He lives in Milwaukee, WI.
The Spartans are ranked No. 1 in Illinois Class 1A for the first time. Their 12-0 season has featured 10 shutouts and an 82-6 scoring margin.
FARMER CITY - The moment was years in the making, and St. Joseph-Ogden made sure to rise to it. For the first time in program history, when the Spartans stepped onto the field this week, they did so as the No. 1 ranked team in Illinois Class 1A boys soccer. Highly deserving of the recognition, SJO's domination on the pitch continued with a win over Blue Ridge yesterday.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Looking to send the ball to an open teammate, Spartans' Buddy Stevens keeps the ball away from Urbana University's Jax Taylor during his team's home match in August. This week, St. Joseph-Ogden plays grueling five-match schedule from the top of the Class 1A rankings.
Behind four goals from junior Zach Harper and a hat trick from Hunter Cler, SJO powered past Knights 9-0 on the road, stretching their unbeaten season to 12-0 and keeping their storybook run alive.
Harper got down to business early, connecting twice in the first half on pinpoint feeds from midfielder Tyler Hess, who finished with four assists. Harper also turned provider, setting up goals for Cler and freshman Ainsley Freeman, who celebrated her first varsity score.
Cler went on to complete his hat trick, while the Spartans also benefited from a Hoopeston own goal. By the final horn, SJO’s relentless attack had overwhelmed the Knights, keeping their defensive dominance intact with a 10th shutout of the year.
"Steven Newman & Waylon Jones (Batman & Robin) are the dynamic duo on the back line," head coach Chris Stevens said. "Yadi Acosta holds down the middle and Lucas Stevens is up top looking to score or assist his teammates."
Jones and Newman are juniors, which means SJO's soccer program will simply reload in 2026.
The Spartans have now outscored opponents 82-6 this season, their No. 1 state ranking underscoring a rapid rise built on depth and determination. SJO also holds the No. 479 spot nationally, ranked ahead of Chicago Academy and Coal City in Illinois 1A. Since the start of 2022, the program has won 51 matches against just 11 losses, a turnaround that has placed the school the map, mirroring the school's storied football program.
Stevens said three attributes define this year’s roster: discipline, determination, and unselfishness. "They have set big team goals for postseason and want to see them through," he said. "[Every] player, seniors through freshman, want everyone to succeed. This is a cohesive group of players and it’s a privilege to be a part of this journey with them."
Now, the focus shifts to Illini Prairie Conference play. The Spartans host Monticello (4-7-1) today before a quick two-game road swing to Olympia on Wednesday and Bloomington Central Catholic on Thursday. After a short rest, they’ll return home to face Illinois Valley Central Saturday morning — all with their new No. 1 target on their backs.
Scoring Summary
Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
Hunter Cler (assist: Zach Harper)
Ainsley Freeman (assist: Zach Harper)
Own Goal (Hoopeston)
Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
Hunter Cler (unassisted)
Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
Hunter Cler (penalty kick)
St. Joseph-Ogden soccer unbeaten season, Illinois Class 1A soccer rankings, Zach Harper SJO soccer highlights, Hunter Cler hat trick SJO, SJO Blue Ridge soccer recap
The Spartans swept all singles and doubles matches. SJO's singles and doubles squads were flawless, taking key wins on the road.
ST. JOSEPH - St. Joseph-Ogden bounced back in commanding fashion Monday night, defeating Hoopeston Area in straight sets in front of a supportive home crowd. Just days removed from a 2-0 loss to Oakwood, the Spartans regrouped and rolled to a 25-15, 25-10 sweep, ending the Cornjerkers’ hopes early and extending Hoopeston’s losing streak to eight matches.
Outside hitter Emerson Williams powered the offense with six kills across the two-set match. Addi Childers chipped in four kills, while Hadley McDonald and Ally Schmitz added three apiece. On defense, Emma McKinney anchored the back row with six digs, and senior libero Katie Ericksen followed with five. McDonald rounded out her solid night by contributing four more digs.
The Spartans also found momentum at the service line. Ava Alexander was unstoppable, landing four aces in her seven serves. McDonald backed her up with four aces of her own in 13 attempts, giving SJO a decisive edge in both sets.
With the victory, the Spartans improve to 4-8 overall and look ahead to a road trip tonight to face St. Teresa in Decatur. The Bulldogs (2-9), who opened the season with seven straight losses, are seeking to gain traction. SJO then returns home Wednesday to host the Danville Vikings. Hoopeston falls to 1-9 with the loss.
TAGGED: SJO volleyball win over Hoopeston, St. Joseph-Ogden vs Hoopeston volleyball, Emerson Williams SJO volleyball, Ava Alexander aces SJO, Hoopeston losing streak volleyball
For example, when I asked them to draw conclusions from data or generate a process for testing an idea, some students replied, “Why don’t you tell us what to do?” or “Isn’t it the teacher’s job to tell us the right answers?”
In other words, my students had developed a strong preconceived notion that knowledge comes from authority. After investigating, my colleagues and I concluded that these beliefs about learning were influencing how they approached our lessons – and thus what they were able to learn.
Photo: Annie Spratt/Unsplash
All students come to class with a range of beliefs about what it means to learn. In the field of education, perhaps the most sought-after belief is what we call having a growth mindset. Students with a growth mindset believe they can improve and continue to learn. In contrast, students with a fixed mindset struggle to believe they can become more knowledgeable about the topic they’re studying. When students say, “I’m bad at math,” they exhibit a fixed mindset.
As teachers, we not only try to help students understand the topic at hand but also aim to instill accurate beliefs about learning so nothing interferes with their ability to take in new information.
Some students and teachers equate learning to memorizing.
While memorization has a role in learning, deep learning is about understanding. Students will be well served recognizing that learning is about explaining and connecting concepts to make meaning.
Why is an explanation more useful than just an answer?
For example, I was once working with a preschool student when they proudly demonstrated their ability to recite the numbers 1 through 20. I then asked the student to count the pencils on the desk. The student did not understand my request. They had not connected these new words to the number concept.
To help students recognize the importance of understanding for learning, teachers and parents might engage students in questions such as, “Why is connecting a new idea to an old idea better than just trying to memorize the answer?” or “Why is an explanation more useful than just an answer?”
Learning is complex and requires challenge
Students’ belief that learning is akin to memorization may reflect a related belief that knowledge is simple and learning should be easy.
Instead, educators want students to embrace complexity and its challenges. Through wrestling with nuance and complexity, students engage in the mental effort required to form and reinforce new connections in their thinking.
When students believe knowledge is simple and learning should be easy, their engagement in higher-order thinking, which is required to embrace complexity and nuance, suffers.
To help students who are struggling grasp a complex idea, teachers and parents might ask questions that help students see why learning is complex and requires challenge.
Learning takes time
When students believe learning is simple and easy, educators should not be surprised they think learning should be fast as well.
Instead, students ought to understand that deep learning takes time. If students believe learning is quick, they are less likely to seek challenge, explore nuance or reflect and make connections among ideas. Unfortunately, many curricula pack so much intended learning into a short amount of time that beliefs in quick learning are subtly reinforced.
Photo: CDC/Unsplash
While teachers can get creative with curricular materials — and spend more time challenging students to explore complexity and make connections — just spending more time on a concept may not be enough to shift a student’s beliefs about learning.
To help students shift their thinking about the speed of learning, I ask them to discuss questions such as, “Why do you think understanding complex concepts takes so much time?” or “Why would only covering this concept for one lesson not be enough?” With these questions, my colleagues and I have found students start to recognize that deep learning is slow and takes time.
Learning is ongoing
Students should also recognize that learning doesn’t end.
Unfortunately, many students believe learning to be a destination rather than an ongoing process. Yet, because knowledge contains an inherent level of uncertainty, and increased learning often reveals increased complexity, learning must be continuous.
To help students reflect on this belief, teachers and parents might ask their students, “How do you think your knowledge has changed over time?” and “How do you think your learning will change in the future?”
Learning is not only from teachers
I remember one high school student telling me that “teachers are supposed to tell us the answers, so we know what to put on the test.”
This student had apparently figured out the “rules of the game” and was not happy when their teacher was trying to engage them in higher-order thinking. This student was holding onto a transmission model of learning in which learning comes from authority figures.
Instead, students should recognize that learning comes from many sources, including their experiences, their peers and their own thinking, as well as from authority figures.
While teachers and parents may hesitate to undermine their own authority, they do students a disservice when they do not prepare them to question and go beyond authority figures.
... helping kids develop more robust beliefs about learning just might be the most important thing teachers can do...
To help students shift their thinking, teachers might ask students to consider, “Why might learning from multiple sources help you better understand the complexity and nuance of a concept?”
Building better beliefs about learning
Often, teachers and parents believe opportunities to engage in higher-order thinking are enough to help their students develop better beliefs about learning.
In my experience, the conversations I’ve had with students using the questions noted above are highly engaging. Moreover, helping kids develop more robust beliefs about learning just might be the most important thing teachers can do to prepare students for the future.
TAGGED: growth mindset in education, student beliefs about learning, higher-order thinking in classrooms, teaching strategies for mindset, lifelong learning skills
TOLONO - Crewe Eckstein celebrates as he heads to the sidelines after scoring a Unity touchdown against Central Catholic in their Week 3 conference game at Hicks Field. Eckstein and the Rockets (2-1) travel to Dick Duval Field for their annual gridiron matchup with St. Joseph-Ogden (3-0).
Do you know Illini Prairie football?
Submit your picks for this week's Friday Night Forecast and see how your calls stack up against other Illini Prairie Conference football fans. Drop back by OurSentinel.com Friday morning to see which teams are predicted to win as they work to qualify for this year's state football playoffs. This poll is closed.
Week 3 Scores
Central Catholic 34, Unity 27
St. Joseph-Ogden 51, Illinois Valley Central 16
Prairie Central 14, St. Teresa 13
Monticello 36, Rantoul 14
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 48, Pontiac 22
Charlie Kirk’s death echoes America’s tragic history of assassinated leaders, reminding us that violence cannot silence free speech.
Charlie Kirk was a man who had opinions and vocalized them. He believed in free speech. He also believed in the right of free speech for those who disagreed with him. In his Turning Point rallies, he gave untold numbers of people the opportunity to express their opinions and to debate him. He respectfully gave each person the time to state their case on whatever the subject. Charlie was adamant, profound and articulated strong convictions.
Glenn Mollette
Sadly, a deranged 22-year-old man from Utah took Charlie’s life. It has been reported that the gunman had previously stated at a family dinner that he thought Kirk was filled with hate.
When Kirk spoke at a University rally in Utah, the gunman plotted and positioned himself to shoot a single long-range rifle shot that took Kirk’s life. The man ran back to his home where he later had no choice but to confess to his father that he was indeed the man who had been videotaped at the rally who took Charlie Kirk’s life.
The lone assassin is an evil coward who silenced one of America’s star voices. At least he thought he did. Charlie Kirk has become more known and his sound clips have been heard more in the last few days than in his entire ministry/career. Kirk has been propelled by the assassin to a status in American culture that will never be forgotten. Instead of silencing Kirk he magnified Kirk’s voice and message a hundred or more times. Kirk is now being remembered around the world.
It’s one thing to have a hateful, negative thought, but it’s another to allow hate to act itself out in such a way.
Charlie Kirk used his voice. Every American is entitled to this freedom. His voice cost him his life.
Abraham Lincoln gave his life reuniting our country and abolishing slavery. A cowardly assassin took Lincoln’s life as he leisurely watched a play at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. John F. Kennedy used his voice to excite the American people and to bring about a positive attitude in the country, but was gunned down by an assassin from a hidden window in downtown Dallas, Texas. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a man with a great voice who stirred the hearts of millions of Americans and brought about liberating change for black Americans. An assassin who disagreed with King cowardly hid and took King’s life with a bullet. Malcom X and Bobby Kennedy were orators for positive change in America but someone who disagreed with their views killed them.
The greatest voice of hope, love, change and forgiveness, who ever lived, was Jesus Christ. A cowardly crowd yelled for him to be executed.
These mentioned voices were not silenced by hideous crowds or hidden gunmen. Each of their voices have rung loudly and clearly. Their legacies have only grown bolder and stronger.
It is sad that Charlie Kirk’s assassin did not go down to the rally, stand up like a man and challenge Kirk in a debate. He could have told Kirk what he thought about him and given Kirk a chance to respond. But no, he was a weak, spineless man filled with more hate than probably anyone in America at that given moment.
It’s one thing to have a hateful, negative thought, but it’s another to allow hate to act itself out in such a way.
Violence is never the answer. Let’s keep America free. Free to speak, free to debate, free to practice and express our religion. Let’s have peaceful and strong conversation not assassination.
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.
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.
Charlie Kirk assassination legacy, history of assassinated American leaders, free speech and violence in America, political debate versus violence, legacy of voices after tragedy
Prison staff safety concerns prompt Illinois to scan all inmate mail and restrict books to publisher shipments under new emergency rules.
Photo: RDNE Stock Project/PEXELS
DIETERICH - The Illinois Department of Corrections has enacted emergency rules designed to curb contraband entering state prisons after a string of drug-related incidents put correctional officers at risk.
The rule, effective Aug. 14, requires all incoming letters to be electronically scanned, with incarcerated individuals receiving only digital or paper copies. Publications such as books and magazines must now be sent directly from publishers.
Union members held pickets last year after multiple exposures prompted temporary mailroom shutdowns.
State Rep. Adam Niemerg, R-Dieterich, pushed for the changes following last year’s reported overdoses and accidental exposures that hospitalized several correctional staff.
“It should not have taken nearly a year for this common-sense policy to be put in place,” Niemerg said in announcing the rule change.
The move follows concerns raised by the union representing prison employees, AFSCME Council 31, which reported rising use of synthetic drugs and dangerous substances, including wasp spray, within correctional facilities. Union members held pickets last year after multiple exposures prompted temporary mailroom shutdowns. IDOC signed a vendor contract to handle scanning shortly after the safety concerns were raised.
The emergency rules remain in effect for up to 150 days. IDOC may move to make the policy permanent following review. Niemerg said he will continue to monitor the situation alongside staff at Lawrenceville and Robinson Correctional Centers, both of which he visited during the height of the crisis.
A packed Hicks Field witnessed Unity and Central Catholic battle in a thrilling Illini Prairie Conference matchup. The Saints edged the Rockets 34-27.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
With the help of teammate Coleton Langendorf, Unity's Keegan Germano tackles Central Catholic quarterback Matthew Brady for a loss in the first quarter of their Illini Prairie Conference game. Scoring the last touchdown of the game, Brady led the visiting Saints to a 34-27 win at Hicks Field on Friday.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity defensive players take a breather on the sidelines while getting advice and instructions from an assistant coach.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Central Catholic receiver Crayton Schnierle hauls in long pass between Unity defenders Adam Reedy and Graydin Cler. Schnierle's catch set up BCC's second first quarter touchdown moving the ball from their 18 yard line to Unity's 33.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity fans in the east end zone dance to music during a time out. Over 500 football fans were on hand for an exciting game between the conference's two potential champions this season.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity's Tre Hoggard is wrapped up from behind by a Central Catholic defender. Hoggard made five catches good for 87 yards and a touchdown for the Rockets.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Crewe Eckstein makes his way into the end zone in the second quarter for a Unity touchdown. Eckstein padded his stats with 151 yards on 17 carries against the Saints. The senior finished the game with two touchdowns.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity fans congratulate wide receiver Tre Hoggard after his touchdown on a 29-yard pass play in the second quarter.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity's Crewe Eckstein breaks away for a 56-yard romp down the sidelines late in the second quarter.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity student fans show their undying support for the Rockets after a big play.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Blasting his way into the Saints' backfield, Rockets' Coleton Langendorf wraps up Central Catholic's Valshun Powe for a loss in the second half.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity student fans celebrate a first down for the Rockets.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Rockets' Crewe Eckstein barrels his way to the goal line for touchdown, dragging Saints' Greyer Pirtz, who made the initial hit on the eight-yard line, with him into the end zone.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Matthew Brady is hoisted by teammates after scoring a touchdown for Central Catholic. Brady's TD broke a 27-all score with less than two minutes left on the clock. The extra point was good giving his team the 34-27 advantage.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
With very little time on their side, Unity crafted an impressive drive down the field toward the east end zone in response to BCC's go-ahead score. Dane Eisenmenger rolls out of the pocket looking to throw to Tre Hoggard. The pass tipped off the fingertips of Hoggard as the buzzer sounded, ending the Rockets' comeback effort. Unity dropped to 2-1 on the season while Central Catholic remains undefeated headed into Week 4 of IHSA football.
Unity vs Central Catholic football photos, Hicks Field Illini Prairie Conference, IHSA Week 3 football gallery, Unity Rockets 2025 football, Central Catholic Saints undefeated season
DOJ to argue in Illinois gun ban appeal as Seventh Circuit hears Barnett v. Raoul. Case could reach U.S. Supreme Court.
Photo: Seeetz/Unsplash
The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled that concealed-carry licenseholders may keep their firearms when traveling on public transportation as long as it is unloaded and secured while onboard.
By Greg Bishop The Center Square
CHICAGO - A gun rights advocate says that the U.S. Department of Justice coming to argue in front of an appeals court against Illinois’ gun ban is significant.
Oral arguments are scheduled for Sept. 22 in the case Barnett v. Raoul, challenging the state’s gun and magazine ban. A federal district court found the law unconstitutional last year after a four-day bench trial.
In the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, the U.S. Department of Justice motioned to be allowed time to argue.
“This appeal concerns whether Illinois’s Protect Illinois Communities Act, which prohibits so-called ‘assault weapons,’ can withstand scrutiny under the Second Amendment, which protects Americans’ right to ‘keep and bear Arms,’” the motion said. “Because of the federal government’s interest in ‘protect[ing] the Second Amendment rights of all Americans,’ Executive Order No. 14,206, Protecting Second Amendment Rights, … the United States filed a brief as amicus curiae supporting Plaintiffs-Appellees. The United States believes that its participation in oral arguments will be helpful to the Court.”
A concealed-carry licenseholder can keep his firearm with him as long as it is unloaded and secured during his time on public transit...
The motion was granted.
Gun rights advocate Todd Vandermyde said it’s monumental.
“We have the United States Department of Justice not only filing an amici brief on behalf of the challenges to the Illinois gun ban, they have asked for time to come in and argue the government’s position,” Vandermyde told The Center Square.
The case is expected to go to the U.S. Supreme Court regardless of whether the appeals court sides with plaintiffs or with the state of Illinois.
How law enforcement interprets a recent appeals court ruling in a separate case challenging the prohibition of carrying concealed firearms on Illinois mass transit is still unclear.
The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled earlier this month in the case Schoenthal v. Raoul, reversing a lower court and upholding the law.
“A concealed-carry licenseholder can keep his firearm with him as long as it is unloaded and secured during his time on public transit,” the court said. “Under Illinois’s regulation, a citizen can step off the transit system, reassemble their firearm, and go about their day with no further infringement on their rights.”
Vandermyde said this leaves open significant questions.
“What's this going to look like when you have five, six, a dozen people waiting for the bus? And as the bus pulls up, they all reach under their coat or whatever, pull out a handgun, unload it, clear it, and then place it in a briefcase or purse or satchel or something like that, and then board the bus?” he asked.
...the decision “does not change how Illinois law enforcement enforces conceal carry laws in the state.”
The Cook County Sheriff's Office said it would be “premature to comment on how any part of the decision would be enforced.”
“We understand the appellate court has not issued the appellate mandate for this decision and the decision remains pending,” the office said. “We intend to have discussions with the Attorney General’s and the State’s Attorney’s Offices regarding the procedural posture of this decision and when it will take effect, and what the practical effect of the decision will be on public safety and enforcement of the concealed carry laws of Illinois.”
Illinois State Police said the decision “does not change how Illinois law enforcement enforces conceal carry laws in the state.”
Vandermyde said he still doesn’t know.
“They didn't give us any definitive, you know, ‘we're going to arrest you if you do this.’ Well, if they come out and say that and they've effectively negated your ability to carry, you know, if you were forced to use public transit.”
Plaintiffs in the Schoenthal case said they are reviewing the decision on what their next steps will be.
Illinois gun ban appeal, DOJ in Barnett v. Raoul, Seventh Circuit gun rights case, Second Amendment Illinois challenge, Illinois concealed carry transit ruling
With strong early financial support, Ted Dabrowski announced his bid for Illinois governor in the 2026 Republican primary. His campaign focuses on conservative reform and moral clarity, setting him up as the GOP fundraising frontrunner.
by Ben Szalinski Capitol News Illinois
SPRINGFIELD - Ted Dabrowski, the leader of a conservative research publication, officially announced Friday he will run for Illinois governor in the 2026 Republican primary.
Dabrowski’s Wirepoints.org publishes research and commentary on state policy issues and advocates for conservative solutions on pensions, taxes, governance and other public policy issues. Before joining Wirepoints in 2017, Dabrowski was vice president of policy for the conservative Illinois Policy Institute think tank after spending nearly 20 years in banking.
“I am not from the political system,” Dabrowski said from his Wilmette home. “I know the system; I know the players. I know how the sausage is made and why it tastes so bad. And I know that if we don't revitalize the Republican Party with strong executive leadership, we cannot resuscitate the state of Illinois.”
Photo: Capitol News Illinois/Jerry Norwicki
Ted Dabrowski talks to fellow Republicans at a State Central Committee meeting in Springfield on Aug. 14, 2025.
Though Dabrowski has built his reputation in Illinois politics by leaning into analytical, data-driven arguments, he signaled that his message on the campaign trail might be different.
“We will win this race by laying out a competing vision for Illinois, one rooted in conservative reform principles,” Dabrowski said. “And as much as I like charts and graphs, the main feature of my candidacy will be the moral clarity on those matters which impact the quality of life for productive Illinoisians who play by the rules.”
Dabrowski announced that his running mate will be Carrie Mendoza, an emergency room doctor from the Chicago area. She previously held a director position at the Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism, a group that has opposed lessons on gender in schools.
Dabrowski did not take questions from reporters following his announcement.
Fundraising leader
Dabrowski enters the race as the immediate leader in fundraising after first saying last month that he planned to run for governor.
Dabrowski has raised $1.2 million, including from his own seed money, in contributions of $1,000 or more.
State Board of Election records show Dabrowski loaned $250,000 to his campaign at the end of August — a move that eliminated fundraising restrictions for all candidates in the race.
Other contributions reported to the State Board of Elections over the last month show he has received several other large contributions of $100,000 or more from various people in finance and philanthropy in the Chicago area.
two candidates in the race have also not reported substantial fundraising.
The stiffest competition for Dabrowski and other Republican candidates for governor — former state Sen. Darren Bailey — is likely to officially enter the race in the coming days. Bailey was the party’s 2022 nominee for governor, and sources confirmed he’s planning a second run to try to beat Gov. JB Pritzker. He received 57% of the vote in the 2022 primary.
It’s still unclear who Bailey’s financial backers will be as he has not been actively fundraising for state office. He had just $2,800 in his campaign fund as of June 30. Lake Forest billionaire Dick Uihlein was his primary funding source in 2022.
“I'm very aware of the skepticism about the Republican Party's prospects and Illinois' future, but we have a strong team, and we are and will be well-funded,” Dabrowski said. “Illinoisans have Pritzker fatigue, and they're looking for a credible alternative.”
The other two candidates in the race have also not reported substantial fundraising. DuPage County Sheriff Jim Mendrick’s financial records show he had $100,588 on hand at the end of June and has reported $11,000 in contributions of $1,000 or more since then. Joe Severino, a Lake Forest resident who is also running for governor, has not reported any contributions to the State Board of Elections.
One of Dabrowski’s earliest supporters is Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, who is chair of his campaign.
“He has spent 15 years researching, digging and offering solutions, highlighting the failings,” Plummer said “A lot of people in the state may not know the name Ted Dabrowski yet, but I assure you they know his work. He has shed light on so many of our problems.”
Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
NORMAL - Ironman Nico Salvati tries to fight his way past a Wildcat offensive lineman to bring down Noah Gulley during their Big Twelve game in Week 2. Normal Community used a dominant second half to top Normal West 35-22 in the latest edition of the Chili Bowl. After a close first half, the Ironmen found their rhythm, capitalizing on turnovers and converting key possessions. The Wildcats battled but couldn’t keep pace as Community’s defense tightened in the final minutes. The Ironmen left the field with bragging rights in one of the area’s most cherished rivalries. See more photos from this game.
TAGGED: Normal Community vs Normal West Chili Bowl 2025, Normal Illinois high school football rivalry, IHSA Week 3 football scores, Normal Community Ironmen football recap, Normal West Wildcats football highlights
Rockets and Saints traded punches all night, but BCC had the last word. Unity drops tough 34-27 decision.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Unity's Crewe Eckstein drags Central Catholic's Greyer Pirtz into the end zone for a touchdown in the third quarter. Eckstein finished the team's first conference loss with 151 yards on 17 carries and two touchdowns. by Clark Brooks The Sentinel TOLONO — It was a beautiful evening at Hicks Field. The temperature at game time started in the low 80s and gradually dipped into the lower 70s as the sun set across Central Illinois. With more than 800 fans in the stands, two unbeaten Illini Prairie Conference heavyweights went toe to toe. From the opening kick to the final horn, momentum swung wildly, but in the end visiting Bloomington Central Catholic caught the last wave to victory, defeating Unity 34-27 in a high-quality high school football clash.
"We knew that it was going to be a heavy weight fight with two very good teams," said Saints head coach Kevin Braucht. "In a game like that, there are many swings in momentum and our ability to stay calm and focused on our jobs say much about out mental toughness and resiliency. We preach every day about looking at every moment as an opportunity vs. a burden regardless of the outcome."
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Bloomington Central Catholic's Valshun Powe looks at Unity's Brayden Henry as he tries to scamper down the sidelines for a first down.
Central Catholic found that opportunity when Unity’s first possession ended prematurely after a completed pass was fumbled near midfield. Central Catholic recovered and drove for a one-yard touchdown run. The Saints missed the extra point but struck again before the first quarter ended on a nine-yard run, extending their lead to 13-0.
The Rockets roared back in the second quarter. Dane Eisenmenger powered up the middle for Unity’s first score, followed by Crewe Eckstein’s four-yard burst that tied the game. Ty Rodems’ second extra point gave Unity a 14-13 edge. Minutes later, Brayden Henry’s interception set up Eisenmenger’s touchdown pass to Tre Hoggard, sending the Rockets into halftime with a 20-13 lead.
Central Catholic regrouped after the break, scoring on runs of nine and 26 yards to reclaim a 27-20 advantage.
"Coming out of halftime we wanted to limit their offensive snaps and wanted to control the clock better," Braucht said. A sound plan given how explosive the Unity offense had proven itself in the first two weeks of the season.
Eckstein punctuated that thought when responded with his second touchdown run of the night, dragging a defender across the goal line to even the score at 27 in third quarter.
"Our kids battled there to the end. I'm pretty proud of them," said Tony Reetz, now 2-1 as Unity's head coach. "They (BCC) were able to control the clock, control the ball, and kept our offense on the sideline. They kind of wore our defense down a little, so credit to them."
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Keegan Germano, Desmond Winfrey, and Coleton Langendorf defensive tactic to contain Central Catholic's run gam while taking a breather on the bench in the first half.
The decisive drive came late in the fourth quarter. Facing 4th-and-1, Valshun Powe slipped away from Unity’s Adam Reedy to keep the Saints alive. Moments later, a leaping catch in double coverage put BCC on the Unity 12. Matthew Brady finished the drive with the go-ahead touchdown at the 2:50 mark.
Unity mounted one final push, reaching the Saints’ four-yard line. On the last play, Eisenmenger rolled left under pressure and lofted a pass toward Hoggard in the corner of the end zone. The ball glanced off his fingertips as time expired, sealing Central Catholic’s win.
Unity’s offense posted strong numbers despite the loss. Eckstein finished with 151 yards rushing on 17 carries, including a 56-yard breakaway. Eisenmenger added 40 yards on the ground while throwing for 196 yards. Henry led Rocket receivers with four catches for 92 yards, while Hoggard hauled in five for 87.
Overall, Unity ran 52 plays for 382 yards, while the Saints executed 70 plays for 405 yards and held a 31–22 edge in first downs. The Rockets lost the turnover battle 3-1.
"They played us in a little bit different coverage than we were anticipating, so it took us a while to get the passing game going," Reetz said. "I was happy with the way we executed when we figured out what we could take from them."
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
Central Catholic receiver Crayton Schnierle makes a reception on a huge play between Unity defenders Brayden Henry and Graydin Cler. The catch set up the game-winning touchdown from Saints' Matthew Brady.
Braucht praised his team’s balance and once again highlighted their overall resiliency. "When you have three players of their abilities, you need to make sure they are getting most of the calls," he said, pointing to Powe, Brady and Crayton Schnierle as difference-makers. "Those three are very good players, but the real difference in that game was our offensive and defensive lines and how we controlled the line of scrimmage in the second half."
Reetz said the Saints exposed a few weaknesses that the team will work on. The luxury of having a tough game early in the season is that it gives you plenty of time to turn those shortcomings into strengths.
"It is just week three of the season. We're in this for the long haul. We're not trying to be ready with everything Week 3," he said. "This will be a good case study to look at."
The loss drops Unity to 2-1 heading into a road trip to unbeaten St. Joseph-Ogden (3-0) next Friday at Dick Duval Field. The Spartans dominated Illinois Valley Central 51-16. Central Catholic improves to 3-0 and will host Rantoul.
TAGGED: Unity Rockets football 2025, Bloomington Central Catholic Saints football recap, Unity vs Central Catholic Hicks Field 2025, Illini Prairie Conference week 3 football results, Illinois high school football Unity vs St. Joseph-Ogden preview
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.
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