Wanting out of Illinois? The best Red States to consider


SNS - With so much talk on X (formerly known as Twitter) by users - probably mostly BOTS - wanting to 'get out of Dodge' and leave Illinois for a more conservative lifestyle, let's take a look at relocating to one of the many Red States.

The phrase 'Getting out of Dodge' captures the essence of seeking a new environment and a fresh start. Whether it is the pursuit of a different lifestyle, economic opportunities, or a unique cultural setting, here is a bit about navigating the waters with some practical advice for the big move.

Why anyone would want to leave a state with a competitive educational system, rich in diversity, and where residents receive quality healthcare regardless of gender or sexual orientation, is somewhat a mystery. But, if you gotta go, you gotta go. We've compiled some helpful information below for those people ready to move on.

Photo: Colin Lloyd/Unsplash

Getting out of Dodge: Why Choose a Red State?

Getting out of Dodge and opting for a 'Red State' as your next home brings a combination of financial, cultural, and lifestyle benefits. These states typically offer advantageous tax policies, like no state income tax, which can significantly boost your disposable income. This feature is particularly notable in states like Texas and Florida, where residents enjoy more earnings.

Beyond the financial aspect, Red States is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to traditional values. This creates a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. Furthermore, the conservative political landscape often translates into business-friendly policies and a sense of stability in governance. That makes these states attractive for entrepreneurs and those seeking a less bureaucratic environment.

Texas: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Texas, where traditional values meet modern growth, presents a unique living experience. Its economy, one of the largest in the U.S., is powered by diverse sectors, including energy, technology, and healthcare. Cities like Austin, renowned for its rich music scene and burgeoning tech industry, offer a dynamic lifestyle.

With its mix of cultures and space industry, Houston provides a cosmopolitan experience. San Antonio's blend of historic sites and family-friendly attractions offers a more traditional Texan experience. The cost of living in Texas is generally lower than in many other states, adding to its appeal. When settling in Texas, creating cozy spaces in your home becomes part of adopting the Texan spirit, with a focus on warm, welcoming interiors.

Arizona: A Desert Gem
Arizona's distinct desert landscapes, year-round sunny weather, and burgeoning job market make it an attractive destination.

Phoenix, the state's capital, is a bustling metropolis offering a variety of urban and outdoor activities, from upscale dining and shopping to mountain hiking and botanical gardens. Tucson, with its more relaxed pace, appeals to those seeking a balance between city living and access to nature.

The state's outdoor lifestyle, characterized by golfing, hiking, and scenic drives, is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Florida: The Sunshine State Awaits
Florida is renowned for its inviting climate, dynamic economy, and diverse cultural scene. The cost of living varies across the state, with areas like Tampa providing an affordable yet vibrant lifestyle and Miami offering a more luxurious urban experience. Florida's extensive coastline is perfect for beach lovers, and the state is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.

With warm weather most of the year and plenty of entertainment, Florida also offers a diverse cultural experience for those who enjoy a vibrant lifestyle.

Photo: Jarritos Mexican Soda/Unsplash

When moving to Florida, it's essential to look for expert interstate movers who can navigate the unique challenges of a Florida relocation. Beyond the well-known cities, places like Sarasota offer a serene beach lifestyle, and Fort Myers is known for its historic downtown and family-friendly environment.

Georgia: Southern Charm with a Progressive Twist
Georgia combines traditional Southern charm with a progressive outlook in a masterful way. Atlanta, the state's vibrant capital, serves as a bustling center for business and culture. In contrast, smaller towns like Savannah offer historic streets and a slower pace of life for those seeking a more relaxed pace.

Georgia's diverse landscape provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Appalachian Mountains or exploring the picturesque coastal areas. The state's rich culinary heritage, especially its traditional Southern cuisine, adds to its allure.

North Carolina: Where Innovation Meets Nature
North Carolina is a fusion of technological innovation and natural beauty. The Research Triangle, comprising Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, is a tech and academic excellence hub. The state offers a mix of urban development and natural attractions, from the bustling city life in Charlotte to the tranquility of the Appalachian Mountains.

The cost of living is reasonable, making it attractive for both professionals and families. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the range of activities, from mountain biking in the Pisgah National Forest to relaxing on the beaches of the Outer Banks.

Tennessee: A Melody of Culture and Comfort
Tennessee is celebrated for its deep musical roots and comfortable living. Nashville, famous for country music, and Memphis, rich in blues and rock 'n' roll history, offer unique cultural experiences. The state's renowned culinary scene, highlighted by its barbecue and Southern comfort foods, is a delight for food lovers.

Tennessee's cost of living is comparatively low, offering an affordable yet high-quality lifestyle. However, when planning a move, it's important to be aware that moving scams are the worst. Guaranteeing an easier relocation requires partnering with trustworthy and experienced movers.

Take The Next Step

If you plan to move to a Red State, thorough research is key. Start by exploring different areas online to understand the local culture, cost of living, and employment opportunities. Visiting potential new homes can offer invaluable insights, so consider short trips to experience these places firsthand.

Pay attention to logistics, including housing, schools, and transportation options. Don’t forget that every move is unique. Tailor your moving plans to fit your specific needs and preferences.

Getting out of Dodge and moving to a Red State offers diverse experiences and opportunities. From Florida's sunny beaches and dynamic economy to Texas's blend of tradition and modernity, each state presents its unique allure.

Arizona's desert beauty and outdoor lifestyle, Georgia's blend of Southern charm with progressive cities, North Carolina's innovative spirit amidst natural wonders, and Tennessee's rich cultural tapestry and comfortable living standards exemplify the varied lifestyles available.

Hopefully, those who want immigrate to a new state will take the time to delve deeper into these options and consider carefully what each state can offer.



Prep Sports Notebook | SJO, Unity set sights on holiday tournament titles



Taylor leads SJO into title game at State Farm tournament
Normal - Coy Taylor drained a career-best 31 points in the St. Joseph-Ogden's semifinal game against Pecatonica on Friday. The Spartans advanced to Saturday's Small School Division title game at the Shirk Center, scheduled to start at 5:15 pm.

Tanner Jacob knocked down 20 points, and Tanner Siems finished with 13 points to help SJO roll over the Indians, 91-61.

Logan Smith just missed a double-double, scoring nine points, but he made it up in the paint, hauling in seven rebounds and dishing out 11 assists.


Unity advances to title game at Williamsville tournament
Williamsville - Andrew Thomas led the Rockets in an explosive first half, scoring 14 of his 16 points to send Illini Prairie rival Prairie Central into the third-place game at the Williamsville Holiday Tournament. The Rockets advanced to the championship game to face the host Bullets after winning the semifinal, 51-35.

It was another all-team outing with nine Unity players putting numbers in the scorebook. Andrew's brother, Henry, was perfect from the free-throw line, going six-for-six, and finished with 14 points. Dalton O'Neill helped round out the top three scorers with six first-half points.


Spartan girls win third-place consolation game at State Farm tourney
NORMAL - The St. Joseph-Ogden basketball program finished their run at this year's State Farm Holiday Classic with a 2-2 record after defeating El Paso-Gridley 48-30 Friday afternoon.

Addison Frick finished the consolation bracket third-place game with 12 points. Addisyn Martinie had 11 points, and Addison Seggebruch finished with seven.

Six other Spartans contributed three points or more in the victory, giving SJO a 7-8 record at the end of 2023.

Myli Ehrhardt paced the Titans (9-4) with 13 points.


Consolation bracket title dashed
Normal - After defeating Rockford Lutheran on Thursday, the St. Joseph-Ogden girls' basketball program was butted out of consolation title contention by the eventual winners, the Rams of Port Byron Riverdale on Friday.

Addison Frick nailed three treys on her way to a team-high 15 points for the Spartans. Sophomore Timera Blackburn-Kelley was the second-leading scorer with seven points. Addison Seggebruch, who connected on both free-throw shots, added six points, with Katie Ericksen matching her total with a pair of treys.

Riverdale's Alexis Duke led nine other players from her team with 12 points in the 59-42 win at Normal Community High School.


Unity takes second at holiday tourney
Bismarck - The Unity girls basketball team came up short in their bid for the Heritage/Bismarck Holiday Tournament title. The Rockets fell 59-27 to Benton Central in Friday's championship game. Seniors Raegen Stringer and Addison Ray were named to the All-Tournament team.



Out Loud .::. "It was a tough game"


BLOOMINGTON - The Sentinel caught up with St. Joseph-Ogden junior Coy Taylor after the Spartans' 66-40 win over a very good Rock Falls basketball squad at the State Farm Holiday Classic on Thursday. Taylor was up and down the floor for 25 minutes, finishing the game with 14 points, three rebounds, and three assists.

Almost 24 hours later, he was back on the hardwood, energized enough to drop a career-high 31 points on Pecatonica. Taylor put on a three-point shooting clinic, hitting six of his seven attempts outside the arch. Seeing a minute less playing time, he also dished out six assists and hauled in six boards in SJO's 91-61 semifinal win.

Taylor and the Spartans advanced to the championship game on Saturday against El Paso-Gridley.

Here's what he told The Sentinel after his game against the Rockets of Rock Falls:



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Photo Gallery | Spartans win quarterfinal over the Rock Falls Rockets


BLOOMINGTON - St. Joseph-Ogden's Coy Taylor attacks the basket from the paint during his team quarterfinal game against Rock Falls. The Spartans (11-1) prevailed 66-40 to advance to today's game against Pecatonica, which they won in a dominant fashion, 91-61. Taylor, a junior, led his team's scoring effort with 31 points. Facing El Paso-Gridley at 5:15 pm tomorrow, SJO will attempt to win back-to-back titles in the Small School Division. Below are 11 more photos from the team's win at Illinois Wesleyan's Shirk Center on December 28.

Photos: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks



Going up strong, SJO wins tournament quarterfinal game over Rock Falls


BLOOMINGTON - Surrounded by Rock Falls players, St. Joseph-Ogden's Collin Thomey goes up for second half shot at the Shirk Center. The junior scored four points and grabbed two rebounds during his 15 minutes against the Rockets. St. Joseph-Ogden won the game 66-40, advancing to Friday's semifinal game against Pecatonica at the State Farm Holiday Classic.

Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks



Prep Sports Notebook | Area schools produce a bouquet of basketball victories



Thomas piles on points at Williamsville Holiday tournament
Williamsville - Henry Thomas led Unity in their 62-57 win over Peoria Christian on Thursday with 21 points. Dalton O'Neill and Dane Eisenmenger added 10 points each to propel the Rockets into the semifinals against Illini Prairie Conference foe Prairie Central.

Another team win, Unity enjoyed scoring from seven other players, including Tre Haggard with two points, Colton Langendorf 5, Brayden Henry 5, Aiden Porter 2, Jay Saunders 3, Eric Miebech 1, and Andrew Thomas rounding out the scoring effort with five points.


St. Joseph-Ogden boys advance to semis at State Farm tourney
Bloomington - Tanner Jacob scored 16 points, and Coy Taylor piled on another 14 in the Spartans' quarterfinal game against Rock Falls. In complete control from start to finish, St. Joseph-Ogden kept the game out of reach, defeating the Rockets, 66-40.

Unlike their opener against East Dubuque, SJO took an early lead and didn't look back with seniors Luke Landrus, who snagged nine rebounds, and Logan Smith with seven assists, contributing nine points each.

St. Joseph-Ogden looks to lock up one of the title game spots tomorrow after tonight's 8:30 pm game against Pecatonica. The Indians, in their first State Farm Holiday Classic appearance, shocked Normal U-High yesterday, 62-55.


Unity girls roll past Armstrong-Potomac
Bismarck - Addison Ray scored a game-high 19 points for the Rockets in the team's 61-41 win over Armstrong-Potomac. Ray amassed her total take in three quarters and was 3-for-8 from three-point range.

Raegen Stringer finished with 12 points, and Reagen Little had ten points. Unity's bench contributed 20 points in win number ten. Emily Decker scored six points, Claire Meharry delivered for points in the second half, Jocelyn LeFaivre four points, Elle Cheely 2 points, and Lauren Haas added four more to the cause.

Unity will face Benton Central (14-2) in the Heritage/Bismarck Holiday Tournament championship game.


Rockets blast Comets in tournament quarterfinal
Bismarck - Unity's Addison Ray started her day at the Heritage/Bismarck Holiday Tournament with 16 points to lead Unity to a 51-25 win over Oakwood yesterday. Raegen Stringer, who was 2-for-2 from the free-throw line, scored 11 points, and Reagan Little book ten points to advance in the Rockets in the championship bracket.

Jaydah Arrowsmith and Nikita Taylor paced the Comets with six points each.


Spartan girls rebound
Bloomington - Katie Ericksen drained a season-best 20 points in SJO's 45-42 win over Rockford Lutheran in the State Farm Holiday Classic Small School consolation bracket quarterfinal. Addisyn Martinie chipped in 11 points, and Addison Frick, a perfect 2-for-2 from the charity stripe, finished with seven points.

The Lady Spartans advanced to a semifinal game against Port Byron Riverdale.


Area high school coaches
We need your help covering your team this season to help keep fans, college recruiters, and area readers informed.

If you are coaching basketball, wrestling, competitive cheer or competitive dance at Unity, Uni-High, Urbana High School, or St. Joseph-Ogden, please send us your game or meet results for our Prep Sports Notebook. The best way to send us box scores and other info is via email to sports@oursentinel.com or editor@oursentinel.com.



"You got to be ready" - SJO bench steps up when called in SFHC opener


SJO's Tanner Siems takes control of the opening tipoff at the State Farm Holiday Classic on Wednesday.

NORMAL - From the opening tip through the first quarter, the St. Joseph-Ogden basketball team's efforts were dismal against East Dubuque in the second game of the Small School Division at the State Farm Holiday Classic. Up 27-25 at the start of the second half, the Spartans extended their fragile lead by as much as 11 in the third quarter over the tenacious Warriors on the way to a 56-47 win Wednesday afternoon at Normal Community West High School.

The East Dubuque punched SJO in the mouth early, going up 6-0 and led on the scoreboard the entire quarter. Spartans' Ryker Lockhart tied the game up with 3:37 left to play in the half, followed by two more SJO buckets to up 24-20.

"It didn't seem like we were ready to play," Spartan head coach Kiel Duval confessed. He gave credit to the way the Warriors came out to play. "They had a lot more energy from the start. They were more aggressive on both ends and that took us out of what we wanted to do."

The slow rev up to aggressive play was not ideal.

"In this tournament, you can't approach games like that," he explained. "One through 16 is really, really good. If you don't come ready to play, you saw what happened in the first quarter. You have to be ready to play when you walk off the bus."


Tanner Jacob takes a shot
Tanner Jacob goes up for a contested shot with East Dubuque's Carter Widmeier. Jacob scored 11 points for the Spartans in Wednesday's game.
PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

On the next possession, Warriors' Aaron Culbertson hit a jumper, closing the scoring gap. Tanner Jacob answered back with a trey of his own for SJO to make the score 27-23. East Dubuque would sink one more basket before the intermission and head in the locker room down by two.

It took just under a minute and a half at the start of the third quarter for Jacob to bag another trey and sink a field goal, giving SJO a 32-25 lead. Coupled with aggressive defensive play, the Spartans let the Warriors get close twice in the third quarter before taking full-control of the contest.

"It wasn't really a great start. We weren't ready to go," said Luke Landrus, who finished with eight points and four rebounds. "We picked it up after the second quarter. In the third quarter we really started playing defense and getting rebounds. That helped us offensively."

Landrus credited the bench for helping St. Joseph-Ogden get the win.

"Our bench helped us a a lot. We didn't start off fast, but we had good people come off the bench, played hard, and did their job."

Combined, Lockhart, Parker Fitch, Tim Blackburn-Kelley, Logan Lackey and Collin Thomey saw 32 minutes.

Ryker Lockhart, hopped of the bench, playing five minutes for SJO. He hit the second quarter, game-tying shot the Spartans needed against East Dubuque.

Photo: PhotoNews Media


"We got a lot of guys with the ability to play. We told them 'you got to be ready, whatever your roll is'," Duval said. "You got to play just like the other guys. There shouldn't be any drop-off. I thought the did today."

Three SJO players finished with double figures. Shooting 75% from the field, junior Tanner Siems finished with 15 points. Logan Smith accumulated 13 points during his 26 minutes on the floor. Both Siems and Smith had three rebounds and three assists. Jacob contributed 11 points and credited with two steals.

One-for-two from the free-throw line, Thomey led the Spartans' rebounding effort with five.

Tonight, the Spartans face Rock Falls in the tournament's nightcap at 8:30-ish at Illinois Wesleyan's Shirk Center.



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