In a month marked by remembrance and gratitude, we revisit stories that defined our region — local sports state championship runs, celebrating Thanksgiving, and spotlighting moments of unity, resilience, and spirited debate.
From local news, features, and community events to politics, and Opinion-Editorial viewpoints, discover archived posts published on November 16 in previous years, offering a rich tapestry of life in Champaign County and the broader community, curated by The Sentinel. Here are the headlines from local news, sports, community events, and editorial viewpoints in and around Champaign-Urbana.
As youth find their way in a digital age, the threat of online harassment continues to grow. A study earlier this year raises concerns that cyberbullying may be significantly more likely to influence suicidality.
by Alan Look
NORMAL - The Bloomington Central Catholic Saints closed out a remarkable season on the state’s biggest stage, earning a runner-up finish in the IHSA Class 2A Girls Volleyball Tournament. While the final result — a three-set loss to Columbia (25-19, 20-25, 17-25) in the championship match — may have stung in the moment, the team’s legacy is defined by the exceptional journey that led them to the state final floor in Normal.
In a month marked by remembrance and gratitude, we revisit stories that defined our region — local sports state championship runs, celebrating Thanksgiving, and spotlighting moments of unity, resilience, and spirited debate.
From local news, features, and community events to politics, and Opinion-Editorial viewpoints, discover archived posts published on November 14 in previous years, offering a rich tapestry of life in Champaign County and the broader community, curated by The Sentinel. Here are the headlines from local news, sports, community events, and editorial viewpoints in and around Champaign-Urbana.
by Casey Cartwright One of the most effective steps to cutting down utility expenses is updating your home appliances. Older refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers consume more electricity and water than you might realize. Energy-efficient appliances, on the other hand, utilize advanced technologies that use less power while maintaining superior performance. Look for models with the ENERGY STAR label, a certification that guarantees energy savings.
While the upfront cost of newer appliances may seem higher, they pay off over time through reduced electricity and water bills. Energy-efficient LED lighting can also replace traditional bulbs to bring reductions in energy use. By making these modern upgrades, not only do you save money, but you also reduce your home’s environmental footprint. If you have an older home, updating your appliances is just one of several ways to improve your overall energy efficiency; consider other methods that can benefit you.
Heating and cooling costs are some of the largest contributors to household utility bills. Poor insulation allows air to escape, causing your heating or air conditioning systems to work harder and consume more energy. To address this, ensure that your home is well-insulated, particularly in key areas such as the attic, walls, and floors.
Weatherstripping gaps around doors and windows is another cost-effective way to keep the desired temperature inside your home. Another vital tool is using a programmable thermostat. These devices allow you to regulate your home's temperature efficiently, ensuring you’re not wasting energy when no one is home. With better insulation, you’ll notice an immediate drop in your heating and cooling expenses.
Water bills are an often-overlooked area where you can make changes to reduce spending. Small adjustments can go a long way, such as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or fixing leaky faucets promptly. Installing low-flow showerheads and faucets in your bathrooms is a simple way to conserve water while maintaining comfort.
Consider upgrading to a water-efficient toilet, which can save gallons of water with every flush. Running washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads minimizes waste. For landscaping, choose local, drought-resistant plants that require minimal watering. These small measures can collectively shrink your water usage and, in turn, your utility bills.
Changing your everyday habits can have a remarkable impact on energy bills; turn off lights, fans, and electronics when not in use to prevent unnecessary energy consumption. Consider unplugging devices such as chargers, computers, and kitchen appliances when they’re not needed, as many still draw power in standby mode, a phenomenon known as "phantom load."
Better yet, invest in smart power strips, which automatically shut off power to devices when they are idle. Another simple yet powerful step is to maximize natural light during the day. Open your curtains or blinds to brighten your home instead of relying on artificial lighting. These efforts may seem small but, when done consistently, they significantly reduce your monthly expenses over time.
Your internet and cable bills may feel like fixed expenses, but there is often room for negotiation. Start by assessing your current plan and usage, then, if you’re paying for services or channels you don’t use, switch to a more suitable package.
Many providers offer discounts for bundling internet, phone, and cable services together, so ask about deals. You might also benefit from periodically negotiating your contract terms, as loyal customers are sometimes eligible for reduced rates. Alternatively, consider cutting out cable altogether in favor of streaming services, which often provide greater flexibility at a fraction of the cost.
Home maintenance may not be the first thing you think of when considering ways to save, but regular upkeep can help prevent major repair bills down the line. Schedule routine check-ups for your HVAC system to ensure it’s running efficiently.
Clean or replace air filters every few months to maintain airflow and energy efficiency, and inspect appliances like water heaters, stoves, and refrigerators regularly to identify potential issues early. Addressing small problems before they escalate keeps your appliances and systems running smoothly, reducing the risk of large unexpected expenses.
Another way to cut monthly costs is by rethinking how you shop. Buying cleaning products, toiletries, and non-perishable items in bulk often provides significant discounts. Keep an eye out for sales or use digital coupons to save on regular purchases.
Consider switching to store-brand alternatives, they're often just as effective as name-brand options but come at a much lower price. When it comes to fresh food, meal planning and buying seasonal produce can also help you stretch your grocery budget further. Frugal shopping habits ensure you're getting the most value for every dollar spent.
If you’re ready to make a long-term investment in reducing recurring expenses, think about transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar panels. While the initial setup cost is significant, government incentives and reduced electricity bills make it a worthwhile option in the long term.
Solar energy systems enable you to generate your own electricity, lessening or even eliminating your reliance on your local power grid. As an added bonus, this investment also increases the overall value of your home. Renewable energy isn't just about saving on bills; it’s a smart choice for a sustainable future.
Knowing how you can reduce your home’s monthly bills doesn’t require massive sacrifices. A combination of upgrading appliances, improving insulation, adopting energy-saving habits, and using smarter strategies for water and other utilities can lead to substantial savings. Many of these steps also benefit the environment, making your home more efficient and sustainable. Whether you start small or opt for bigger changes, cutting costs while maintaining comfort is entirely within reach. By implementing these tips, you can create an affordable and energy-conscious household.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks After scooping up a ground ball, Adilynn Wilson throws a runner out at second in Unit...
