Take a break: Five reasons to escape to the Mexican Caribbean this winter

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BPT - Escape the chill this winter and discover the signature paradise of the Mexican Caribbean. This stunning region boasts endless experiences to suit every type of traveler in 12 distinct destinations, from popular spots like Cancun, Tulum and the Riviera Maya, to hidden gems like Holbox, Bacalar and Playa Mujeres.

With powder-soft beaches, turquoise seas, verdant jungles and world-class resorts, the Mexican Caribbean is the perfect destination for a wide range of travel experiences, from solo wellness retreats to couples' getaways, family vacations and more.

Here are the top five reasons to book a getaway in the Mexican Caribbean:

1. Easily accessible tropical weather year-round

Get ready to shake off the cold in the Mexican Caribbean's balmy tropical climate where average daily winter temperatures hover in the mid-80°s F and nights rarely dip below 60° F. Sunshine is just a short trip away, with direct flights available from more than 40 U.S. cities to international airports in Cancun, Tulum and Cozumel, most of which are five hours or less.

2. Rich cultural experiences

The foundation of the Mexican Caribbean's culture centers around the ancient Mayan civilization and the magnificent archaeological sites that draw visitors from around the world. For an authentic experience off the beaten path, explore Maya Ka'an, located two and a half hours south of Cancun. This enchanting region showcases the enduring legacy of the Mayan people, with the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - as its centerpiece. Here, visitors can engage with local artisans and discover lesser-known archaeological sites like Muyil, which is situated on the Sian Ka'an lagoon, a name meaning "Where the Sky is Born." Once a key stop on a Mayan trade route, Muyil's canals now offer visitors the opportunity to swim and float in natural lazy rivers.

3. Endless activities

Nature enthusiasts will love the variety of outdoor activities available in the Mexican Caribbean. With its diverse geography, visitors can explore jungles, nature reserves and protected marine environments, all while unplugging from daily stress. Swimming, snorkeling and diving in cenotes is one of the most unique experiences in the Mexican Caribbean. These limestone sinkholes dotting the landscape have crystal clear waters, regional fauna and more to explore. Ancient Mayans considered them to be the entrance to the underworld.

In Puerto Morelos, the Cenotes Route boasts 60 cenotes over a span of 21 miles, accompanied by other adventure activities including mountain biking, ATVing, ziplining, rappelling, horseback riding, bird watching and more.

4. Unparalleled wellness experiences

The Mexican Caribbean is one of the world's top wellness destinations, offering luxury spas, holistic mind-body practices, and traditional healing rituals. For a truly restorative winter getaway, Tulum and Holbox offer distinctive experiences. Tulum is celebrated for its spiritual ambiance and laid-back atmosphere, offering a range of personalized wellness activities. Visitors can enjoy beachfront yoga, rejuvenating treatments at seaside spas, and temazcal ceremonies guided by traditional Mayan practices.

Holbox, a charming car-free island, is ideal for those seeking a more untouched experience. This free-spirited destination boasts beachside massages, ample yoga and boutique hotels offering a variety of holistic experiences including sound baths, Ayurvedic rituals, spiritual retreats and more. Holbox's tranquil environment and natural beauty make it an ideal escape for those looking to connect with nature.

5. Culinary experiences to please the palate

Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of options available in the Mexican Caribbean, many featuring traditional Mexican and Mayan ingredients and techniques. For an unforgettable culinary journey, visit Riviera Maya, home to a wide array of dining experiences, from taco stands to fine dining establishments. Notably, Cocina de Autor at Grand Velas Riviera Maya and HA' at Hotel Xcaret stand out, as each were awarded One Star designation by MICHELIN Guide Mexico in 2024. More casual options abound on the Fifth Avenue pedestrian thoroughfare and surrounding streets.

Are you ready for an unforgettable tropical vacation this winter? To learn more and plan your trip to The Signature Paradise, visit MexicanCaribbean.Travel.

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Keywords: unforgettable culinary journey, free-spirited destinations,magnificent archaeological sites, couples' getaways, winter travel, winter getaways

Photo Gallery |Unity soccer wins first postseason match

Photos: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Andrew Berkey tries to take possession of the ball from Monticello's Will Trimble during their regional quarterfinal game last Wednesday. The Rockets, who defeated the Sages 3-2 in their Illini Prairie league match, won the postseason matchup 3-1, advancing to the semifinal against Fisher on Saturday. Below are 20 photos from last week's home match.

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Spartans dominate Iroquois West 10-1, breaks IHSA record for most goals in a season

ST. ANNE - St. Joseph-Ogden continued its remarkable soccer season on Friday with a commanding 10-1 victory over Iroquois West in the IHSA Regional Semifinals, setting a new state record for most goals in a season. The Spartans’ 165th goal of the year broke a record that had stood since 1993, when Sandburg High School scored 164 goals across 30 matches.

The game ended at halftime due to the lopsided score, as SJO’s offense overwhelmed the Warriors from the start, scoring at will. With the win, St. Joseph-Ogden advanced to the regional title game, where they will face Watseka on Wednesday at 6 p.m.

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Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden's Quinn Stahl fends off a Blue Ridge defender during a non-conference home match on September 16. Stahl delivered one of ten goals scored against Iroquois West in Friday's regional semifinal game at St. Anne.

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The Spartans’ high-powered attack was led by standout performances from several key players. Alex Acosta notched a hat trick, adding an assist for good measure, while Tyler Hess matched his teammate with three goals and one assist. Logan Mills contributed two goals and two assists, and Yadi Acosta and Quinn Stahl each chipped in with a goal.

SJO’s relentless offensive pressure proved too much for Iroquois West, which struggled to contain the Spartans’ dynamic attack. Davin Alvarez also added an assist in the rout, while goalkeeper Jaxson Colvin made two saves on three shots to secure the win.

While the offense garnered much of the attention, St. Joseph-Ogden’s defense has been equally formidable throughout the season. Friday’s match marked the 21st game since the team’s last loss on August 29, a stretch that has included 14 shutouts. The Spartans have allowed just 15 goals all season, a testament to their balanced play on both sides of the ball.

St. Joseph-Ogden (21-1-1) will now prepare for the regional championship match against Watseka. With the Spartans riding a 21-game unbeaten streak, including 20 wins and one draw since their lone defeat to Urbana University High, they appear poised to make a strong push in the remainder of the postseason.

The Spartans’ offensive firepower, combined with their stingy defense, has made them a formidable contender in the IHSA playoffs. As they head into the regional final, SJO will look to continue its historic season and add more hardware in an already impressive campaign.

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Keywords: St. Joseph-Ogden soccer, IHSA soccer record, Illinois high school soccer, SJO vs Iroquois West, St. Joseph-Ogden regional title, Illinois soccer playoffs.

Week 8 area football scores

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

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

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Champaign Central 63
@ Normal West (5-3) 7
Next week: Central hosts Manual (1-7)

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Champaign Centennial (4-3) 6
Normal Community (#6 7A) (6-1) 49
Next week: Centennial @ Bloomington (#10 6A) (6-2)

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Urbana (0-8) 14
@ Manual (1-7) 58
Next week: Urbana host Normal West (5-3)

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Unity (6-2) 56
Paxton-Buckley-Loda (6-2) 6
Next week: Unity host Monticello (#8 3A) (7-1)

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St. Joseph-Ogden (#4 3A) (8-0) 53
Rantoul (1-7) 0
Next week: SJO host Paxton-Buckley-Loda (6-2)

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Oakwood (5-3) 42
Salt Fork 33
Next week: Oakwood hosts Bismarck-Henning (#3 2A) (8-0) *

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

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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