Tonight's Live NFHS Broadcasts
January 11, 2022
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New invention may reduce need for mask in classrooms
Photo provided
It makes sense that these particles can be easily pulled by the room’s HVAC system or larger air purifier.
(NAPSI) -— A new approach to indoor ventilation has been developed that can significantly decrease the risk of COVID and influenza outbreaks in schools, offices and other indoor environments, and even speed a reduction in mask wear.
The innovative invention captures and cleans individuals’ breaths within seconds, before potential viruses have a chance to be dispersed throughout a room, improving overall indoor air quality. Current methods, including upgrades to existing HVAC systems, have proven somewhat ineffective as COVID outbreaks continue to create disruptions in indoor settings throughout the United States.
"Existing ventilation systems in schools, offices and elsewhere were not built for virus control. Not only does better ventilation decrease the risk of catching COVID, it has been shown to also improve work productivity and school performance," said Larry Schoen, P.E., Fellow ASHRAE, Principal Engineer for Schoen Engineering Inc. "And even after upgrading a traditional HVAC ventilation system with better filters, it still allows virus-laden air to affect others in a room, creating the potential for contagion."
According to Dr. Rama Rao Amara, Emory University School of Medicine: "We know that COVID, as well as many other viruses, are airborne, meaning they spread through the air in microscopic, aerosolized particles. So, it makes sense that these particles can be easily pulled by the room’s HVAC system or larger air purifier. To stop COVID and other pathogens, such as influenza or even the common cold from spreading in indoor environments, it is vital to capture an exhaled breath before these aerosols have a chance to journey around a room. We need to re-evaluate how indoor air quality is managed."
Called Air-Clenz, the new technology has been customized for classrooms so teachers can see students as they did in pre-COVID settings. The size and positioning of the unit on the desk or cafeteria tabletop let students place their computers, textbooks or lunch trays within the air collection unit, so exhaled air is captured and cleaned of viruses or other pathogens while a student studies, eats or works.
"Capturing exhaled air close to the face before it becomes dispersed has been totally overlooked," said Stuart Sheldon, CEO of Air-Clenz Systems. "Except for a face mask, which most individuals would not want to wear for the rest of their lives, there is no known system in the world that captures even 50 percent of one’s exhaled air without also cleaning 100 percent of the air in a room or enclosed space. There are literally hundreds of different commercial air purifiers and HVAC system options, but none come close to achieving what Air-Clenz can achieve."
The technology adds to the HVAC system for even cleaner air.
Dr. Anita Broach, Air-Clenz’s Chief Scientist, adds: "Research demonstrates that Air-Clenz’ technology typically captures and cleans more than an estimated 85 percent of a person’s exhaled breath in approximately three seconds. The captured air is then cleaned to a 99.9 percent level before being recirculated."
Food | A tasty traditional steak taco recipe you will want to try
Photo provided
(NAPSI) -— Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States—about 655,000 Americans die from heart disease each year, according to the Centers For Disease Control And Prevention — but you can protect yourself 3 ways.
Three Steps To A Healthier Heart 1. Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit. See your doctor, the can help. We all know smoking can cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung diseases. It has also been known to also increase the risk for tuberculosis and problems of the immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis. 2. Get regular exercise. The Surgeon General recommends 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise week. Start with walking and work your way up to fun social sports like golf, doubles tennis, or pickleball. Lap swimming and biking are great low, impact activities that can help you lead a healthy life. 3. Eat right. Choose plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and foods high in fiber and low in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol. Avoid eating large snacks before bedtime and avoid sugary snacks, too.
To help, Mazola® Corn Oil has come up with a number of recipes that are delicious and support heart health. The all-purpose cooking oil is a heart-healthy choice for baking, grilling, sautéing, stir frying or mixing up a marinade. Very limited and preliminary scientific evidence suggests that eating about 1 tbsp (16 grams) of corn oil daily may reduce the risk of heart disease due to the unsaturated fat content in corn oil. FDA concludes there is little scientific evidence supporting this claim. To achieve this possible benefit, corn oil is to replace a similar amount of saturated fat and not increase the total number of calories you eat in a day. Mazola is known to have a high smoke point of 450° F. All cooking oils have a smoke point that, once exceeded, negatively affects the way food taste. Here’s a heart-healthy recipe, popular with Latinx cooks, that’s delicious for everyone:
Steak Tacos
Ingredients
1 pound flank or skirt steak, frozen for 30 minutes
4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) Mazola® Corn Oil, divided
3 tablespoons tamari or reduced sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 teaspoons chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
8 taco-sized flour tortillas heated on skillet lightly coated with Mazola® Corn Oil until lightly charred.
4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) Mazola® Corn Oil, divided
3 tablespoons tamari or reduced sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 teaspoons chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
8 taco-sized flour tortillas heated on skillet lightly coated with Mazola® Corn Oil until lightly charred.
Toppings:
Cotija cheese
Chopped cilantro
Pickled jalapeno
Lime wedges
Chopped cilantro
Pickled jalapeno
Lime wedges
In large bowl, combine soy sauce, lime juice, 2 tablespoon Mazola® Corn Oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin and oregano. Remove steak from freezer and slice thinly across the grain. Place in bowl with marinade. Stir to cover. Marinate 45 minutes to 2 hours. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in large skillet over high heat. Add steak to hot oil. Sear on both sides for about 1 minute. Immediately reduce heat to medium high. Add reserved marinade. Cook, stirring often, until marinade has reduced to half, about 3-4 minutes. Divide steak among warmed tortillas. Top with a sprinkling of chopped cilantro, crumbles of cotija cheese and pickled jalapeño. Enjoy the feast by immediately with a squirt or two from lime wedges.
Mateo Sanchez & Friends set to play at the Rose Bowl in Urbana
The Rose Bowl Tavern now offers regular jazz shows, jam sessions and a comedy open mike night. Located at 106 N Race Street, there's plenty of free parking after 5pm in the city lot just outside the side entrance on the north side of the building.
For live music this week, check out the father and son duo Jake & Jackson on Tuesday, Mateo Sanchez & Friends on Friday, and then close out the week with Chachi & Falbo on Sunday. Check out some of the other great shows, too. No cover most nights. Check out the Rose Bowl's website for nightly admission.
Here's this week's live entertainment line-up:
For more information on upcoming shows, special hours and promotions, visit their website at www.rosebowltavern.com and on Facebook at @RoseBowlTavern.
Rockets notch 11th win of the season, Unity picks up IPC victory
TOLONO -- Both teams were off to an ugly start in their first basketball game of 2022. Unity's shotmakers converted on just 34.2% of their shots while hosting Olympia in their Illini Prairie Conference game last Friday. Luckily, the visiting Spartans' shots weren't falling either allowing the Rockets to post a 41-34 win over their guests.
Backed by Will Cowan's 10 rebounds, seven of them on the defensive end of the court, Unity held Olympia to just six first-half points inside the Rocket Center.
The Spartans, who made baskets on 23.8% of the balls they tossed at the rim, were led by Chase Litwiller's double-double 19 points, and 11 boards.
Unity (11-2) took an early lead on a three-pointer from Cowan and two more, in addition to a field goal, from senior Blake Kimball for an 11-4 first-quarter lead. Kimball was Unity's only scorer in the next frame with six points. Meanwhile, Olympia mustered only two points, both on free throws from Litwiller and his brother Andrew before halftime.
Despite being outgunned 28-24 in the second half, a fourth-period burst from Kimball and teammate Henry Thomas' six crucial free throws kept the game from slipping away. Jacob Maxwell hit a field goal and free throw in the final frame for the Rockets.
Kimball led all scorers with 25 points. He also added to the cause six rebounds and a pair of steals from his 35 minutes on the court. A bigger asset on defense on Friday, Cowan finished the night with four points.
Cowan & Co. are at home again tomorrow against Tuscola. The varsity game is scheduled to start at 7pm. The Warriors are 12-3 on the season with losses to Okaw Valley, Monticello, and Indiana's 21st Century Charter.
Backed by Will Cowan's 10 rebounds, seven of them on the defensive end of the court, Unity held Olympia to just six first-half points inside the Rocket Center.
The Spartans, who made baskets on 23.8% of the balls they tossed at the rim, were led by Chase Litwiller's double-double 19 points, and 11 boards.
Unity (11-2) took an early lead on a three-pointer from Cowan and two more, in addition to a field goal, from senior Blake Kimball for an 11-4 first-quarter lead. Kimball was Unity's only scorer in the next frame with six points. Meanwhile, Olympia mustered only two points, both on free throws from Litwiller and his brother Andrew before halftime.
Despite being outgunned 28-24 in the second half, a fourth-period burst from Kimball and teammate Henry Thomas' six crucial free throws kept the game from slipping away. Jacob Maxwell hit a field goal and free throw in the final frame for the Rockets.
Kimball led all scorers with 25 points. He also added to the cause six rebounds and a pair of steals from his 35 minutes on the court. A bigger asset on defense on Friday, Cowan finished the night with four points.
Cowan & Co. are at home again tomorrow against Tuscola. The varsity game is scheduled to start at 7pm. The Warriors are 12-3 on the season with losses to Okaw Valley, Monticello, and Indiana's 21st Century Charter.
Box Score
Final: Prairie Central 48 - Urbana 21
Unity --
Kimball 5 (4) 3-10 -- 25, Cowan 0 (1) 0-0 -- 3, H. Thomas 0 (0) 6-8 -- 6, Rawdin 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Warfel 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Saunders 1 (0) 0-0 -- 2, Porter 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, O'Neil 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Price 1 (0) 0-0 -- 2, A. Thomas 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Langendorf 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Maxwell 1 (0) 1-6 -- 3 Olympia --
Ragland 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Peifer 1 (0) 1-2 -- 3, Wilson 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, D. O'Donnell 0 (0) 1-2 -- 1, Swartzendruber 0 (2) 0-0 -- 6, Pierce 1 (0) 2-4 -- 4, A. Litweiler 0 (0) 1-2 -- 1, Wilie 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Dane 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, C. Litwiler 6 (0) 7-9 -- 19, David 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Evans 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, G. O'Donnell 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Olsen 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | F | |
| Unity | 11 | 6 | 5 | 19 | 41 |
| Olympia | 4 | 2 | 10 | 18 | 34 |
Kimball 5 (4) 3-10 -- 25, Cowan 0 (1) 0-0 -- 3, H. Thomas 0 (0) 6-8 -- 6, Rawdin 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Warfel 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Saunders 1 (0) 0-0 -- 2, Porter 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, O'Neil 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Price 1 (0) 0-0 -- 2, A. Thomas 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Langendorf 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Maxwell 1 (0) 1-6 -- 3 Olympia --
Ragland 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Peifer 1 (0) 1-2 -- 3, Wilson 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, D. O'Donnell 0 (0) 1-2 -- 1, Swartzendruber 0 (2) 0-0 -- 6, Pierce 1 (0) 2-4 -- 4, A. Litweiler 0 (0) 1-2 -- 1, Wilie 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Dane 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, C. Litwiler 6 (0) 7-9 -- 19, David 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Evans 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, G. O'Donnell 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0, Olsen 0 (0) 0-0 -- 0
Area COVID-19 Dashboard for January 10, 2022
Champaign County loses another resident to the Coronavirus. The individual is the eighth person to die this month from complications due to the respiratory infection.
In the past 14 days, there have been 247 positive cases of Covid-19 in St. Joseph, 203 in Tolono, 67 in Sidney, and 48 in Ogden.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, the number of available ICU beds in Region 6 dropped to 21. There were 22 out of 150 available on January 8. Region 6 includes Champaign, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Dewitt, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Ford, Iroquois, Jasper, Lawrence, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Richland, Shelby, and Vermillion counties.
Ventilator usage decreased by 47 from 179 of 298 available units to 236 in the region.
Royal • 7 (2)
St. Joseph • 217 (18)
Urbana • 2483 (303)
Sidney • 54 (4)
Philo • 65 (6)
Tolono • 162 (12)
Sadorus • 7 (2)
Pesotum • 30 (7)
Total Active Local Cases:
Total Local Confirmed Cases: 17,704 New cases: 360
Active Champaign County Cases:
7,094
Net change in the county: 55 Current local cases 1/10/22
Number in parenthesis indicates new cases since 1/9/22
Ogden • 40 (6)Royal • 7 (2)
St. Joseph • 217 (18)
Urbana • 2483 (303)
Sidney • 54 (4)
Philo • 65 (6)
Tolono • 162 (12)
Sadorus • 7 (2)
Pesotum • 30 (7)
Total Active Local Cases:
3,065
Net change in local cases: -3Total Local Confirmed Cases: 17,704 New cases: 360
The information on this page is compiled from the latest figures provide by the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District and the Illinois Department of Public Health at the time of publishing. Active cases are the number of confirmed cases reported currently in isolation. Local is defined as cases within the nine communities The Sentinel covers.
Many adults with Type 2 diabetes in the U.S. are not meeting optimal heart health targets
DALLAS — Fewer than 1 in 5 adults with Type 2 diabetes in the U.S. are meeting targets to reduce heart disease risk. Fortunately, available therapies can help when combined with new approaches that address social determinants of health and other barriers to care, according to a new American Heart Association scientific statement published today in the Association’s flagship journal Circulation. A scientific statement is an expert analysis of current research and may inform future clinical practice guidelines.
Guest Commentary: A kind act & the Great Resignation
by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator
A young adult lady in Johnson county, Kentucky, was recently faithfully working her convenient store register job. She had a line of patrons buying drinks and paying for gasoline. Someone asked her how much money she made?
"Nine dollars an hour," she said. "I’ve worked here over two years and the pay has been $9 an hour. I’ve asked for a raise. I work hard. I’m here almost all the time. A manager from the chain of stores always says, 'We are looking into it.'"
She added, "I have to find another job because I can’t take care of myself and my children on $9 an hour."
A patron in line who was only buying a cup of coffee with a $20 bill took the cash she had just handed him in change and said to her, "Please take this and buy some lunch today."
The lady said, "Uh, no, I don’t want that," but the man insisted and she accepted it with tears coming from her eyes. "Thank you, thank you so much she said to the man. I’ve never had anybody to do anything like this for me in my life."
It was good to see a random act of kindness but the episode was a real case scenario of how hard life is for many Americans just like this lady, working for low hourly wages.
On January 5th, the US Department of Labor released its Job Openings and Labor Turnover Summary (JOLTS), revealing that the number of resignations reached 4.5 million in November. The number increased by 370,000, matching September's quit rate record high of 3% — indicating that the Great Resignation isn't showing signs of stopping.
Will the Johnson County lady quit her Job? She will, if she can find a better paying one. Unfortunately, in this area of the country that’s not easy to do. She may have to move in order to make more money. Many employers across the country have had to raise what they are offering in order to find and keep good employees. Thus, many of the Americans who did quit their jobs in November did so because of the lure of better pay in other places.
In Kentucky the federal minimum wage is $7.25. It’s the same wage for many other states but some are doing much better. However, you can’t go by the state minimum. You have to find the right employer who is paying what will make you happy and determine what it will require of you to be an employee.
If you are looking at state guidelines in hopes of better pay, Good luck!
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A young adult lady in Johnson county, Kentucky, was recently faithfully working her convenient store register job. She had a line of patrons buying drinks and paying for gasoline. Someone asked her how much money she made?
"Nine dollars an hour," she said. "I’ve worked here over two years and the pay has been $9 an hour. I’ve asked for a raise. I work hard. I’m here almost all the time. A manager from the chain of stores always says, 'We are looking into it.'"
She added, "I have to find another job because I can’t take care of myself and my children on $9 an hour."
A patron in line who was only buying a cup of coffee with a $20 bill took the cash she had just handed him in change and said to her, "Please take this and buy some lunch today."
The lady said, "Uh, no, I don’t want that," but the man insisted and she accepted it with tears coming from her eyes. "Thank you, thank you so much she said to the man. I’ve never had anybody to do anything like this for me in my life."
It was good to see a random act of kindness but the episode was a real case scenario of how hard life is for many Americans just like this lady, working for low hourly wages.
On January 5th, the US Department of Labor released its Job Openings and Labor Turnover Summary (JOLTS), revealing that the number of resignations reached 4.5 million in November. The number increased by 370,000, matching September's quit rate record high of 3% — indicating that the Great Resignation isn't showing signs of stopping.
Will the Johnson County lady quit her Job? She will, if she can find a better paying one. Unfortunately, in this area of the country that’s not easy to do. She may have to move in order to make more money. Many employers across the country have had to raise what they are offering in order to find and keep good employees. Thus, many of the Americans who did quit their jobs in November did so because of the lure of better pay in other places.
In Kentucky the federal minimum wage is $7.25. It’s the same wage for many other states but some are doing much better. However, you can’t go by the state minimum. You have to find the right employer who is paying what will make you happy and determine what it will require of you to be an employee.
If you are looking at state guidelines in hopes of better pay, Good luck!
Dr. Glenn Mollette is a syndicated American columnist and author of American Issues, Every American Has An Opinion and ten other books. He is read in all 50 states. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization.
This article is the sole opinions of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of The Sentinel. 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.
Watch tonight's area basketball teams play online
The St. Joseph-Ogden girls basketball team hosts Prairie Central (12-5) in their second Illini Prairie Conference match-up in the new year.
Coming off a 57-23 road win over Pontiac, the Spartans are 11-5 for the season.
Meanwhile, the Unity girls' basketball squad, who were supposed to play Tuscola on Saturday, make a short trip to northwest Champaign to take on St. Thomas More. The non-conference contest was canceled due to freezing rain and icy road conditions.
In the Rockets' last outing, Maddie Reed and Taylor Henry combined efforts to produce 20 of Unity's 37 points in the home win over Paxton-Buckley-Loda's girls' team.
Below is tonight's line-up on the NFHS Network.
Tonight's Live NFHS Broadcasts
January 10, 2022
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** Just so you know: The Sentinel is reader-supported. When you make a purchase via a link on our site, we might earn an affiliate commission that we will use bring you more area news and sports coverage.
Healthy homemade chicken soup to keep you warm and healthy
Photo provided
(StatePoint) - When sweater weather arrives, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a pot of something savory and delicious simmering on the stove.
As you turn to hearty soups this winter, having the right seasonal staples means you’ll be well on your way to having piping hot meals on the table, quickly and hassle-free.
Keep your pantry and fridge stocked with essential ingredients like onions, carrots and celery, along with a collection of earthy, zesty spices and versatile, all-purpose seasonings. You’ll also need a rich and all-natural stock handy, such as Kitchen Basics Unsalted Chicken Stock. Simmered all day with chicken, vegetables and McCormick herbs and spices, this deeply flavored stock can bring a burst of savory warmth to countless dishes. It’s low on sodium so it’s a good-for-you start to many delicious meals beyond soup, like rice, sauces, and more.
To help you embrace the colder weather, try a recipe for a hearty classic loaded with tender veggies, chicken, egg noodles and robust flavor that puts this stock -- aka “liquid gold” -- front and-center. Yep, you guessed it, Savory Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. Nostalgic and nourishing, all you need is 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes cooking on your stovetop.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons McCormick Garlic, Herb and Black Pepper and Sea Salt All Purpose Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Ground Turmeric
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 2 cartons (32 ounces each) Kitchen Basics Unsalted Chicken Stock
• 2 cups uncooked medium egg noodles
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons McCormick Garlic, Herb and Black Pepper and Sea Salt All Purpose Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Ground Turmeric
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 2 cartons (32 ounces each) Kitchen Basics Unsalted Chicken Stock
• 2 cups uncooked medium egg noodles
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in large saucepan on medium heat until shimmering. Add onion, carrots and celery; cook and stir 3 minutes or until softened. Stir in seasoning and turmeric; cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken and stock. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 15 to 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender. 2. Transfer chicken to medium bowl; shred using two forks. Set aside. Stir noodles into broth; cook 6 minutes or until tender. Return shredded chicken to saucepan. Gently stir in peas. Sprinkle with parsley to serve, if desired. For more great ways to warm up this season, visit mccormick.com/kitchen-basics. During the short, dark days of winter, healthy soups like this will feed your body and warm your soul.Area COVID-19 Dashboard for January 9
Active Champaign County Cases:
7,039
Net change in the county: 949 Current local cases 1/9/22
Number in parenthesis indicates new cases since 1/8/22
Ogden • 41 (4)Royal • 5 (2)
St. Joseph • 217 (27)
Urbana • 2481 (373)
Sidney • 52 (4)
Philo • 66 (7)
Tolono • 166 (26)
Sadorus • 16 (2)
Pesotum • 24 (0)
Total Active Local Cases:
3,068
Net change in local cases: 414Total Local Confirmed Cases: 17,344 New cases: 445
The information on this page is compiled from the latest figures provide by the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District and the Illinois Department of Public Health at the time of publishing. Active cases are the number of confirmed cases reported currently in isolation. Local is defined as cases within the nine communities The Sentinel covers.
Experts say we need to expand our definition of health, and here's why
Poor nutrition can contribute to a range of chronic health conditions
(StatePoint) - Many Americans view health as a product of the medical care they receive. However, public health experts say that’s just one piece of the puzzle.
"In reality, our health is shaped more by the zip code we live in than the doctor we see. In fact, where we live, our financial circumstances, our access to affordable, nutritious foods, and other non-medical factors overwhelmingly influence our physical and mental health," says Dr. Shantanu Agrawal, chief health officer, Anthem, Inc.
These factors that Dr. Agrawal refers to are known as "social drivers of health" (SDoH), and they determine up to 80% of our health outcomes, according to Robert Wood Johnson Foundation research.
As part of "What’s Driving Our Health," Anthem’s campaign to start a national conversation around whole health, the healthcare company recently conducted a study to learn more about Americans’ perceptions of what health really means. Here are some of the study’s top findings:
• While 46% of Americans are unaware of the concept of social drivers of health, once given the definition, 60% agree that their local community is facing at least some health issues related to them.
• Americans of color are disproportionately affected by the consequences of SDoH. While 58% of white respondents report that their local community is facing at least some health issues related to SDoH, 69% of Hispanic and Latino respondents report the same, as do 68% of Asian respondents and 68% of Black/African American respondents.
• Poor nutrition can contribute to a range of chronic health conditions, and 50% of those surveyed say it is hard to find affordable, healthy food in their local community.
• Though 70% of Americans live near at least one hospital or medical center, one in five say that lack of transportation has kept them from medical appointments. What’s more, nearly one-third struggle with access to health services and care.
• Internet access not only determines whether one is able to use important health services such as telemedicine, it deeply impacts educational outcomes and access to economic opportunities, including employment. Yet, only 39% of Americans believe it significantly impacts their health.
• Some additional factors that can drive health outcomes in the short and long term include access to green spaces, educational opportunities, economic stability and living in a safe community.
Where to Start
More than 80% of those surveyed believe that healthcare entities, local government, private citizens and employers share responsibility to address the many social drivers of health. While these issues are complex and no one entity can fully address all the social drivers alone, here is what you can do today:
1. Connect the dots. Visit WhatsDrivingOurHealth.com to read the full report and learn more about whole health and its drivers.
2. Spread the word. Share what you’ve learned about the ways social drivers affect you and your community and follow the conversation on social media using #DrivingOurHealth.
3. Join the conversation. Understanding is the first step in making positive change. Engage with friends, family, and community members about the many ways to address health-related social needs in your community.
"The sooner we broaden our definition of health, the sooner we can address the many factors that affect people’s ability to thrive," says Dr. Agrawal.
GoFundMe campaign established for St. Joseph veteran who lost home to fire
ST. JOSEPH - Chris Wright lost his home, all of his belongings, and his trusted companion, his dog Bo, to a fire that started in his home sometime around 11pm on New Year's Eve.
The St. Joseph-Stanton Fire Protection District responded to the call and extinguished the blaze around 3am on Saturday.
Wright's neighbor, Kristin Jones, created a GoFundMe campaign to help him recover after the fire.
"The firemen and women tried and did their best to put the fire out is quickly, efficiently, and tried to save everything including his dog, she wrote in the campaign message. "I’m here to ask, that while he continues to work, we raise money to help him in whatever he needs to get through this extremely hard time."
Anyone willing to make a contribution to help the army veteran who served both in Iraq and Afganistan can do so here - GoFundMe for Chris.
"Such a devastating loss for my brother," wrote his sister Kaleigh Clark on Facebook. "He lost his dog, who was his best friend, as well as his house, and all of his belongings in this fire."
Food prices, inflation threaten food security for Illinois families
Supply-chain issues, inflation and job loss during the pandemic have put many families' food security at risk.
In Illinois, hunger remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. Recent census surveys show 7% of households in the state are considered food insecure, and it jumps to 12% for households with children.
Jim Conwell, senior director of marketing and communications for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, said for families already concerned about making ends meet, increased grocery prices are hitting household budgets hard.
"Add on top of that, as we enter the winter months, increased costs for utilities and home heating," Conwell outlined. "There's going to be more families who are struggling to make it through a month and get all the foods they need."
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, food prices overall have increased 6.8% since November 2020. Prices for meat, poultry, fish and eggs have risen more than 12%, and they're up 4% for fresh produce.
And with the ongoing challenge of rising prices, Conwell pointed out it can be even more difficult for families to get back on track, despite many people going back to work and schools reopening.
"Households with children and households of color have been disproportionately impacted by the increased need during COVID-19," Conwell reported. "Here in this area, Black and Latino households are more than twice as likely to experience food insecurity as white households."
He added the Food Bank also has mobile pantries for people who can't get out to shop for groceries, as well as programs for enrolling in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Between 2019 and 2021, SNAP has seen an increase of seven million people receiving benefits.
Photo-of-the-Day: January 9, 2022
Upton wins again
St. Joseph-Ogden's Austin Upton (45-4) tries to pin Mercer County's Jon Ricke (left) during their 170-pound Class 1A wrestleback semifinal match during 2013 IHSA Wrestling State Finals held at the Assembly Hall in Champaign, IL.. Unable to stick Ricke, Upton still advanced to the third-place match after defeating Ricke, 11-8. See more photos from this match and others from this year's state finals on iphotonews.com. The senior eventually finished fourth in the weight class after dropping the third-place bout in a close 3-2 finish to Wilmington's Sean Liaromatis (49-3), the #2 seed in the bracket.
Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks
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Area COVID-19 Dashboard for January 8, 2022
In today's Covid news:
The total number of county residents in isolation dropped by 579 is now at 6,090.
In the past 8 days, Champaign County has had 7,082 positive Covid-19 test.
There are currently just 22 out of 150 ICU beds available in Region 6. The region includes Champaign, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Dewitt, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Ford, Iroquois, Jasper, Lawrence, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Richland, Shelby and Vermillion counties. Ventilator usage is under 50% with 179 of 298 in the region unused at this time.
Royal • 3 (0)
St. Joseph • 190 (15)
Urbana • 2139 (222)
Sidney • 48 (5)
Philo • 59 (5)
Tolono • 140 (10)
Sadorus • 14 (1)
Pesotum • 24 (3)
Total Active Local Cases:
Total Local Confirmed Cases: 16,899 New cases: 262
Active Champaign County Cases:
6,090
Net change in the county: -579 Current local cases 1/8/22
Number in parenthesis indicates new cases since 1/7/22
Ogden • 37 (1)Royal • 3 (0)
St. Joseph • 190 (15)
Urbana • 2139 (222)
Sidney • 48 (5)
Philo • 59 (5)
Tolono • 140 (10)
Sadorus • 14 (1)
Pesotum • 24 (3)
Total Active Local Cases:
2,654
Net change in local cases: -265Total Local Confirmed Cases: 16,899 New cases: 262
The information on this page is compiled from the latest figures provide by the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District and the Illinois Department of Public Health at the time of publishing. Active cases are the number of confirmed cases reported currently in isolation. Local is defined as cases within the nine communities The Sentinel covers.
Small fish swimming with the sharks, SJO grad finding success in real estate business
From four units to 83 — former SJO standout Jake Pence is making waves in Nashville real estate. Entrepreneurship isn’t easy. Much like his athletic career at St. Joseph-Ogden High School, he proves patience and action pay off.
by Clark Brooks The Sentinel
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - 2016 St. Joseph-Ogden graduate Jake Pence has not let the pandemic slow his entrepreneurial pursuits. The real estate business he founded two years ago is now based in Music City. Kaski, formerly known as Blue Chip Real Estate, is a real estate investment firm focused on luxury short-term rentals in Nashville and value-add multifamily properties in central Illinois and Middle Tennessee.
Photo courtesy Jake Pence
A short-term rental in Nashville purchased and renovated by Pence. See more photos on his Instagram page, where he details his acquisition experience.
Pence’s business has grown from managing four units valued at $250,000 to 83 units worth $7.5 million. He has also raised $2.15 million in equity from 23 investors. After graduating from the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois in 2019, Pence chose entrepreneurship over a traditional corporate path. The first year and a half proved challenging, but strategic decisions helped stabilize the business. “For the first year and a half, it seemed like I had placed a bad bet,” Pence wrote in a Facebook post. “However, thanks to the help of numerous people, especially Jared Blaudow, Kendra Pence and Todd Pence, Kaski finally started to gain traction in the summer of 2021 and was able to close out the year strong.” Pence also launched a subsidiary, Stay Music City, a short-term rental property management company offering luxury single-family homes to visitors traveling to Nashville for tourism, sporting events, conferences and work-related trips. Kaski is set to close on two apartment complexes this quarter, a move that would more than double the number of residences in its rental portfolio. “We’re still a very small fish in a very large pond, but I’m excited to see what we can accomplish in 2022 and beyond,” said Pence, who earned varsity letters in three sports at St. Joseph-Ogden. Asked what advice he would give aspiring entrepreneurs and real estate developers, Pence emphasized consistency. “Be impatient with action, yet patient with results,” he said. “Don’t take yourself too seriously or get too caught up in the highs and lows. Take consistent action over a long period of time, and you will start to see results.”
Photo-of-the-Day: January 8, 2022
Safe at third
St. Joseph-Ogden senior Zach Martinie tries to snag a throw to third to tag out a Charleston baserunner during the SJO's home game on April 29, 2021. The runner was called safe on the play. The Spartans went on to win the non-conference game, 3-0. See more photos from this game.
Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks
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Five ways to make Valentine’s Day awesome
Photo: Sarah Pflug/Burst
StatePoint -- Valentine’s Day is no longer just for the happy couples. Whether you’re married, dating or content being single, there are ways for everyone to celebrate love of all kinds, including romance in 2022, regardless of relationship status.
1. Custom Cards. SmashUps from American Greetings can help prioritize love and romance any day of the year. There are SmashUps specifically for Valentine’s Day, with romantic messages from celebrities like Michael Bolton and Smokey Robinson. However, these ecards aren’t just for couples on Valentine’s Day. There are plenty of options for love and friendship, like hilarious videos of talking dogs, cats and koalas. The customizable ecards let you send personalized messages to your boo, your bestie and your brother for a variety of holidays and occasions.
2. FaceTime. Couples who are separated by distance might have to settle for a candlelit FaceTime instead of the in-person dinner they had in mind. Luckily, romance in 2022 means technology can keep us connected, even when we’re apart. If you’re celebrating from a distance this Valentine’s Day, consider shipping gifts to your significant other or gal pals and opening them together while you’re on a video call, or make the same recipe and eat it together on FaceTime.
3. Swipe Left. Many modern-day love stories start with a simple swipe to the left on a dating app. If you’re hoping to meet new people but aren’t sure where to begin, consider having some fun with online dating apps like Bumble, Hinge and Tinder. They’re not just for those looking for love. Many have friendship features, like Bumble BFF, which works the same way, but connects you with others looking for friendships too. This can be particularly useful for those who are moving to new cities, seeking roommates, or looking to network with others who are around the same age or share similar interests.
4. Did Someone Say Galentine’s Day? Originally created by fictional character Leslie Knope in the television series “Parks and Recreation,” Galentine’s Day is all about female friendships and the laughter, joy and support they bring to our lives.
Galentine’s Day can be spent as simply or elaborately as you please. Some gals might get together to exchange gifts of candles and fuzzy socks for the occasion, while others might have a glass of wine and gossip over a charcuterie board. For some, the holiday may just be a reason to call your friends and check in on them. Single or taken, Galentine’s Day is a reminder to glorify your girl gang.
5. Self-Care. Being alone on Valentine’s Day can feel a little lonely, but the day doesn’t have to be painful. If you’re spending it on your own, plan a day at the spa, take a group workout class or cook yourself your favorite meal. Self-care is the perfect way to honor the strong and independent person you are.
Romance in 2022 can be dinners for two with flowers and chocolate, but it can also be celebrating the mystery and magic of an ordinary day with a custom ecard, dinner with gal pals, or spending time doing things you enjoy on our own.
Valentine's Day
Photo-of-the-Day: January 7, 2022
Looking for a win
Unity's Addison Ray looks for a path to the paint in her team's home game against Clinton in November. The Rockets dropped the home game 38-20 to the Maroons. Up next, Unity hosts the Tuscola Warriors tomorrow afternoon at 12:30p, hits the road to Champaign to take on St. Thomas More on Monday, and will back at home on Thursday against Rantoul. See more photos from this game.
Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks
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