Illinois high school football scores for Week 6

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

ST. JOSEPH - Monticello's Nolan Buehnerkemper pummels his way into the end zone through and SJO linebacker for a touchdown with 8:52 left in the third quarter. Cutting St. Joseph-Ogden's 21-7 first-half lead by seven, the Sages added two additional scores on the way to 28-21 win. Both teams finished the game 4-2 and need two more wins for guaranteed playoff spot. The Spartans hit the road to Bloomington to face undefeated Central Catholic while Monticello hosts the Pontiac Indians (2-4).

Illini Prairie Conference scores

Unity 46, Prairie Centdral 7
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 38, Illinois Valley Central 30
Pontiac 42, Rantoul 22
Monticello 28, St. Joseph-Ogden 21
Central Catholic 61, St. Teresa 21

Big Twelve Conference scores

Normal Community 56, Bloomington 42
Champaign Centennial 0, Urbana 0
Champaign Central 0, Danville 0
Peoria 80, Richwoods 30
Peoria Notre Dame 67, Peoria Manual 24
Normal West 40, Waubonseie Valley 35

Scores from around the state

Abingdon-Avon 34, Astoria South Fulton 27
Addison Trail 46, Leyden 6
Albion Edwards County 14, Hamilton County 13
Algonquin Jacobs 27, Crystal Lake Central 21
Amboy 68, Peoria Heights 0
Andrew 56, Stagg 6
Annawan-Wethersfield 48, Stark County 7
Antioch 62, North Chicago 12
Arlington Heights Hersey 54, Elk Grove 14
Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond 48, Arcola 6
Aurora Christian 26, Christ the King 0
Aurora West Aurora 49, Ridgewood 0
Barrington 42, Hoffman Estates Conant 14
Bartlett 41, Aurora East 2
Batavia 24, Geneva 21, OT
Benton 34, Nashville 24
Byron 42, Durand-Pecatonica 14
Carterville 39, Harrisburg 0
Cary-Grove 46, Dundee-Crown 27
Central 27, Brown County 6
Central 42, McHenry 13
Central Catholic 61, St Teresa 21
Centralia 55, Marion 28
Chicago Christian 45, St Edward 0
Christopher 36, Red Hill 28
Coal City 55, Manteno 0
Cumberland 41, Sangamon Valley 19
DePaul 36, Arlington Heights St. Viator 7
Deerfield 24, Glenbrook North 2
Dixon 55, Stillman Valley 0
Downers Grove North 21, Oak Park-River Forest 0
Downers Grove South 57, Proviso East 6
Du Quoin 30, Frankfort 28, OT
Dunlap 56, Canton 21
El Paso-Gridley 38, Tremont 6
Elgin 43, Larkin 21
Erie-Prophetstown 42, Riverdale 36
Farmington 30, Macomb 16
Fremd 35, Hoffman Estates 13
Fulton 55, Dakota 14
Geneseo 38, Galesburg 20
Genoa-Kingston 63, Lutheran 14
Glenbard East 49, Bensenville Fenton 0
Glenbard North 41, Lake Park 23
Glenbrook South 18, Evanston 6
Glenwood 42, University 0
Grayslake Central 28, Grayslake North 6
Herscher 28, Streator 14
Hope 28, Wheaton Academy 21
ICCP 35, St. Francis 28
Johnston City 46, Fairfield 22
Joliet Catholic 16, Notre Dame 7
Kaneland 34, Sycamore 14
Knoxville 32, Illini West 22
La Salle-Peru 28, Ottawa 14
Lake Zurich 31, Zion Benton 0
Lanark Eastland-Pearl City 51, Forreston 24
Le Roy 42, Fisher 14
Lena-Winslow 46, Morrison 7
Leo 46, De La Salle 13
Lift for Life Academy, Mo. 46, Murphysboro 34
Lincoln Way Central 28, Bradley-Bourbonnais 20
Lincoln Way West 52, DeKalb 21
Lincoln-Way East 42, Aurora Metea Valley 6
Lockport 14, Naperville Central 7, OT
MacArthur 61, Lincoln 20
Mahomet-Seymour 49, Effingham 7
Maine South 35, New Trier 7
Marian Catholic 34, Aurora Marmion Academy 20
Maroa-Forsyth 46, Pittsfield 6
Massac County 35, Herrin 20
Mendota 45, Kewanee 13
Metamora 37, Pekin 13
Milledgeville 54, West Carroll 28
Minooka 74, Plainfield Central 7
Monticello 28, St Joseph-Ogden 21
Morris 37, Rochelle 14
Mt Carmel 27, Brother Rice 14
Mt Prospect 70, Wheeling 19
Mt Zion 70, Charleston 0
Naperville North 36, Sandburg 35
Neuqua Valley 42, Homewood-Flossmoor 27
New Berlin 48, Olympia 32
Normal West 40, Aurora Waubonsie Valley 35
Olney 42, Mt. Carmel 26
Oswego 48, Joliet West 6
Oswego East 51, Romeoville 6
PORTA 44, Auburn 20
Palatine 49, Schaumburg 14
Paris 34, Newton 21
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 38, Illinois Valley Central 30
Pinckneyville 27, Anna-Jonesboro 0
Pleasant Plains 32, Riverton 16
Polo 54, Orangeville 8
Pontiac 42, Rantoul 22
Prairie Ridge 35, Huntley 34
Princeton 28, Hall 12
Princeville 42, ROWVA-Williamsfield 8
Quincy 23, East Moline United 21
Reed-Custer 31, Peotone 28
Richards 55, Argo 6
Ridgeview 17, Warrensburg-Latham 0
River Ridge 52, Ashton-Franklin Center 12
Riverside-Brookfield 21, Glenbard South 17
Robinson 39, Lawrenceville 19
Rockridge 50, Orion 7
Rolling Meadows 59, Buffalo Grove 27
Rushville-Industry 54, United 18
Salt Fork 16, Momence 14
Seneca 43, Ottawa Marquette 26
Sesser-Valier 38, Carmi-White County 6
Shelbyville 20, Eureka 17
South Beloit 49, Alden-Hebron 7
South Fork 58, Metro-East Lutheran 50
Springfield 28, Jacksonville 17
St Anne 54, Unity Christian 12
St Charles North 24, St Charles East 13
St Patrick 46, Benet 24
Stevenson 24, Lake Forest 7
Stockton 30, Galena 12
Taylorville 50, Mattoon 6
Tri-Valley 56, Clinton 6
Triopia 38, Beardstown 13
Tuscola 35, Central A&M 14
Unity 46, Prairie Central 7
Vernon Hills 42, Maine East 0
Villa Grove/Heritage 14, Argenta (A.-Oreana) 10
Washington 56, East Peoria 0
Wauconda 43, Grant 39
West Central 26, Galva 18
West Chicago 61, Elmwood Park 6
West Hancock 42, Elmwood 34
Westville 37, Central 14
Wheaton Warrenville South 14, Wheaton North 0
Williamsville 45, Athens 14
Willowbrook 48, Berwyn-Cicero Morton 6
Wilmington 47, Thornton 0
York 28, Hinsdale Central 18

Explosive Ironmen offense outlasts Raiders in high-scoring crosstown thriller

Normal Community defeated Bloomington 56-42 in a high-scoring Big Twelve rivalry game, capitalizing on turnovers to seize the conference lead.

Photo: Alan Look Photography

Photo: Alan Look Photography

Bloomington's Arian King and Cooper Childers stop the Normal Community ball carrier during their game on Friday. The two teams put up a combined 56 points in the first half.

by Alan Look
Best Look Magazine

NORMAL – In a clash defined by explosive plays and momentum-swinging mistakes, the Normal Community Ironmen defeated the Bloomington Raiders 56-42 in last night Big Twelve matchup. The high-octane affair was a contrast in offensive philosophies, where the Ironmen’s ability to turn opponent errors into scores proved to be the decisive factor in the rivalry game.

The Raiders entered the contest with a clear strategic identity, focused on a physical, ground-and-pound rushing attack. Their offensive game plan was to control the clock and wear down the opposing defensive front, using their powerful running game to consistently gain yardage and shorten the game. The strategy yielded several sustained drives and long runs, allowing the Raiders to put up significant points and keep the score competitive deep into the second half.

Raider receiver lays horizontally to catch pass

Photo: Alan Look Photography

Bloomington's Jamari Sutton stretches out a pass. The Raiders dropped the conference battle at Dick Tharp Field after giving up 21 points in the second half. Next up, BHS travels to Peoria Friday to take on Notre Dame hoping to punch their ticket into the 2025 IHSA playoffs. See more photos from this game here ...

The major turning point in the contest, however, was the disparity in turnovers. The Raiders’ reliance on a conservative, run-heavy attack was undermined by several costly ball security issues. Each of the Raiders’ turnovers led to an immediate shift in momentum and, crucially, resulted in an Ironmen touchdown. The Ironmen defense and opportunistic offense turned a handful of dropped balls and errant throws into a 14-point swing on the scoreboard.

The Ironmen's victory was a masterclass in capitalizing on an opponent's mistakes. Their ability to deliver long touchdowns was crucial, as they consistently answered the Raiders’ lengthy drives with scores that required far less time off the clock. The cumulative effect of those quick, long-yardage scores, coupled with the points generated directly from turnovers, was the key difference-maker, ultimately overwhelming the Raiders' methodical attack and securing the 56-42 win for the Ironmen.

Normal Community’s 56-42 victory over Bloomington dramatically reshaped the IHSA Big Twelve Conference playoff outlook, giving the Ironmen sole possession of the conference lead and essentially guaranteeing their postseason qualification with an overall record of 5-1. Before the game, both teams were undefeated in conference play and vying for the top spot, but the Ironmen’s win gives them the critical head-to-head tiebreaker, putting them in control of the Big Twelve title race and likely earning them a higher seed and home-field advantage in the IHSA state playoffs.

Conversely, the high-scoring loss drops the Raiders to 4-1 in conference play, placing them in a crowded second tier with teams like Peoria and potentially Normal West. They’ll now have to battle through a tight race for one of the top remaining conference bids and the valuable playoff seed points that come with them.

TAGS: Normal Community vs Bloomington football, IHSA Big Twelve standings, Illinois high school football scores, Ironmen football 2025, Bloomington Raiders turnover game, high school football playoff outlook, Central Illinois prep football, Normal Community playoff chances, Bloomington vs Normal rivalry, IHSA state playoff seeding

Practical woodworking; 10 easy woodworking projects for beginners

From simple toolboxes to stylish coffee tables, these woodworking ideas help you learn essential skills. Perfect for new builders ready to dive in.

Photo: Bailey Alexander/Unsplash

Looking for a new hobbie? Here are several simple projects for making useful items that you can make if you are new to woodworking.

by Casey Cartwright
Contributor Writer

Are you starting your woodworking journey? It likely feels exciting and overwhelming at the same time. You’ve probably spent hours watching YouTube videos of master craftspeople creating beautiful furniture pieces, wondering if you’ll ever reach that level of skill. Well, the good news is that you don’t need decades of experience or a workshop full of expensive tools to create something meaningful with your hands.

We’re here to explore some practical woodworking projects that are fit for beginners like yourself. Each idea will teach you fundamental skills and result in something you’ll actually use around your home.

Now, before we dive into specific projects, let’s talk about the tools sitting in your garage or workshop. Many beginners think they need every tool featured in woodworking magazines, but that’s simply not true. A basic toolkit and one or two pieces of specialized machinery can get you surprisingly far.

Your essential arsenal should start with a circular saw or miter saw for cutting lumber to length, and it should be fitted with a carbide blade for maximum precision and longevity. Though the lifespan of carbide saw blades depends on how well you care for them, they tend to last quite a while simply by virtue of their inherent durability.

You’ll also need a drill for making holes and driving screws, as well as sandpaper in various grits. Lastly, make sure you have a measuring tape, pencil, and square for marking your cuts accurately. You probably have these last three items lying around somewhere in the house, and they can handle most beginner projects without breaking your budget.

Another storage project to consider is the humble floating shelf. This fixture is incredibly simple.

Once you know that you have all the essential tools on hand, you can decide which project to begin with. We think that storage projects make perfect starting points because they’re forgiving, useful, and instructive of core woodworking principles. For example, a basic wooden box might seem mundane, but it introduces you to measuring, cutting, joining, and finishing—skills you’ll use in every future project.

Consider building a basic toolbox, which is a rectangular box with a handle. The project teaches you about butt joints and reinforcement. To start, cut five pieces of pine: two sides, a bottom, and two ends. The sides measure 16 inches long by 8 inches wide, while the ends measure 8 inches by 8 inches. The bottom fits inside at 14.5 inches by 6.5 inches. Drill pilot holes before screwing the pieces together—this prevents the wood from splitting. Once you assemble the pieces, test for a stable fit and then sand all surfaces smooth, starting with 120-grit sandpaper and finishing with 220-grit. Apply a coat of polyurethane finish to protect the wood from moisture and wear.

Another storage project to consider is the humble floating shelf. This fixture is incredibly simple. You’ll need a 1x6 board cut to your desired length, plus a 2x2 cleat system for mounting. This hidden bracket system teaches you the importance of precise measuring. Cut your shelf board and sand it smooth. Then, create the mounting system by ripping a 2x2 board at a 45-degree angle, creating two pieces that fit together like puzzle pieces. One piece mounts to the wall, while the other attaches to the back of your shelf—and that’s basically it!

Once you’ve mastered basic storage projects, furniture pieces can provide the next challenge. Take a coffee table, for example. This design uses basic lumber and straightforward joinery. You’ll need four 2x4s for the legs, cut to 16 inches each. The tabletop consists of 1x6 boards glued together and 2x4 aprons that connect everything and provide stability. Just cut the aprons to fit between the legs, creating a rectangle slightly smaller than your tabletop. Attach the aprons to the legs using wood screws and corner braces for extra strength. The tabletop sits on top of this frame and gets secured from underneath. Once it’s assembled, sand the entire table thoroughly and apply your chosen finish in thin, even coats.

Woodworking rewards patience and attention to detail more than speed.

You can also craft a matching dining bench to complete the set. The basic design uses 2x10 lumber for the top and 2x8s for the legs. Cut the top to your desired length (48 inches works well for most dining tables). For legs, you can install them at an angle to provide more structural stability and practice with non-90-degree cuts. Mark the leg angles carefully—a 15-degree outward angle looks proportional but not too dramatic. Cut these angles with a circular saw, taking your time to follow the lines precisely. Connect the legs to the top using carriage bolts, which provide strong connections and add to the rustic appearance.

Maybe you don’t need any more storage or furniture. In that case, consider some outdoor projects, which are useful items for your yard or patio that introduce you to weather-resistant materials and finishes. These projects also tend to be more forgiving since a perfect finish matters less outdoors.

We recommend making planter boxes if you have or want to start a garden. Simply build rectangular frames using 1x8 cedar boards. Corner joints can be simple butt joints reinforced with exterior screws. Then, line the inside with landscape fabric to prevent soil loss while allowing drainage.

If you’re not a gardener, then try making a birdhouse. Different bird species prefer specific hole sizes and house dimensions, so research your local birds before building. As an example, a basic wren house measures 4x4 inches at the base with 6-inch walls. The entrance hole should be 1.25 inches in diameter, positioned about 4 inches from the floor. Add small drainage holes in the bottom and ventilation holes near the top.

And there you have it—practical woodworking projects that are fit for beginners like yourself. Did anything strike your fancy? Whichever you’re feeling called to attempt, know that you’re sure to develop essential woodworking skills and create something useful for your home. Just remember not to rush the process. Woodworking rewards patience and attention to detail more than speed. As the old saying goes, measure twice and cut once. You won’t regret it!

Friday Night Forecast
Week 6 Big Twelve football predictions

URBANA - This week's prediction poll for the Friday Night Forecast is closed. Here are this week's picks from area Big Twelve fans.

Danville vs Champaign Central

GAME-of-the-WEEK!
Alan: Champaign Central .::. 24-12
Clark: Champaign Central .::. 28-13

Normal Community vs Bloomington

Alan: Normal Community .::. 35-28
Clark: Normal Community .::. 42-10

Manual vs Peoria Notre Dame

Alan: Peoria Notre Dame .::. 42-14
Clark: Peoria Notre Dame .::. 49-7

Urbana vs Champaign Central

Alan: Champaign Centennial .::. 38-6
Clark: Champaign Centennial .::. 35-12

Normal West vs Waubonsie

Alan: Normal West .::. 28-14
Clark: Waubonsie Valley .::. 28-24

Richwoods vs Peoria HS

Alan: Peoria HS .::. 48-10
Clark: Peoria HS .::. 28-13

With Week 6 voting closed, check back Monday to see how accurate this week's guesses were to the real thing. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a proud alum, or just love the spirit of high school football, Friday Night Forecast brings the fun of the season straight to area prep football fans. Join us in next week poll on Tuesday.

Below are the Week 5 standings.

Week 5 Results

Rank	Name	Record	Notes
1	Alan	5-1	Wins again!
2	Clark	3-3

Cumulative Standings

Rank	Name	Total Record	Wins	Notes
1	Alan	26-5	3
2	Clark	22-9	2

Tags: Big Twelve football predictions 2025, Central Illinois high school football picks, Friday Night Forecast Sentinel, Week 4 Illinois prep football forecasts, predictions

Friday Night Forecast
Week 6 Illini Prairie football predictions

Here are Week 6 predictions from Illini Prairie football pundits for this edition of The Sentinel’s Friday Night Forecast.

Kaden Vance runs the ball after for the PBL Panthers

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Paxton-Buckley-Loda's Kayden looks for running room around two St. Joseph-Ogden defenders. The Panthers host Illinois Valley Central in this week's Illini Prairie regular season game.

URBANA - Each week, we invite Illini Prairie Conference fans to predict the winners from conference matchups. New experts are welcome every week. Below is what this week's team of experts think they have figured out.

Week 6 predictions

Illini Prairie Game of the Week
Rantoul @ Pontiac

Alan: Pontiac .::. 28-14
Sara C: Pontiac .::. 21-14
Mike Roy: Pontiac .::. 21-7
Denise : Pontiac .::. 42-7
Frank Alexander: Rantoul .::. 21-20

Brooks Look: This should be an exciting game between two programs in rebuilding mode. I'm giving the Indians, who have home field advantage, the edge after knocking off IVC with a solid win and nearly upsetting Prairie Central at home in Week 2.

Pontiac 28, Rantoul 21

Unity @ Prairie Central

Alan: Unity .::. 42-14
Sara C: Unity .::. 40-20
Mike Roy: Unity .::. 35-12
Denise : Unity .::. 34-7
Frank Alexander: Unity .::. 42-12

Brooks Look: At 4-1, the Rockets will take another step toward playoff eligibility with the win under first-year head coach Tony Reetz.

Unity 54, Prairie Central 7

Illinois Valley Central @ Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Alan: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 42-8
Sara C: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 21-20
Mike Roy: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 40-7
Denise : Illinois Valley Central .::. 28-14
Frank Alexander: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 21-14

Brooks Look: The Panthers need this win to shake off last week's 6-point road loss to Tuscola before taking on the Unity Rockets next week.

Paxton-Buckley-Loda 48, IVC 7

St. Joseph-Ogden vs Monticello

Alan: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 35-21
Sara C: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 30-27
Mike Roy: Monticello .::. 21-20
Denise : St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 28-24
Frank Alexander: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 35-21

Brooks Look: Nothing better than a homecoming win and getting your big toe in the playoff door. SJO will need to keep the foot on the gas until the final buzzer because the Sages are full of surprises if an opposing team sleeps on them to early. If the Spartan defense can hold Monticello to two TDs or less, it's a win.

SJO 35, Monticello 15

Central Catholic vs St. Teresa

Alan: Central Catholic .::. 40-14
Sara C: Central Catholic .::. 32-21
Mike Roy: Central Catholic .::. 48-12
Denise : Central Catholic .::. 42-7
Frank Alexander: Central Catholic .::. 35-7

Brooks Look: The Saints stay undefeated after this non-conference contest with the Bulldogs.

Central Catholic 51, St. Teresa 7

Week 5 Scores

Central Catholic 41, Monticello 13
Tuscola 20, Paxton-Buckley-Loda 14
Prairie Central 20, IVC 14
St. Joseph-Ogden 56, Rantoul 21
Unity 47, Pontiac 7

Week 5 Results

Rank	Name	Record	Notes
1	Brooks Look	5-0	Week 4 winner
2	Frank	4-1	Tie-Break**
3	Denise	4-1	Tie-Break*
4	Alan	4-1	Tie-Break
5	J	3-2
6	Sara	3-2
7	Lyman	3-2

Cumulative Standings (After Week 5)

Rank	Name	Total Record	Wins	Notes
1	Brooks Look	21-4	2	Week 2 & 5 winner
2	Denise	18-7	0
3	Alan	17-8	0
4	J	16-4	2	Week 1 & 4 winner
4	Sara	14-6	1	Week 3 winner
7	Lyman	10-5	0
6	Frank	4-1	0
7	Keith	3-2	0

Week 6 Big Twelve football predictions, pick the winners

Week 5 Results

Rank	Name	Record	Notes
1	Alan	5-1	Wins again!
2	Clark	3-3

Cumulative Standings

Rank	Name	Total Record	Wins	Notes
1	Alan	26-5	3
2	Clark	22-9	2

Tags: Big Twelve football predictions 2025, Central Illinois high school football picks, Friday Night Forecast Sentinel, Week 4 Illinois prep football forecasts, predictions

Central Illinois farmers push through long hours for 2025 soybean harvest

High-capacity combines, GPS-guided rows, and LED-lit rigs kept operations rolling past sunset. Technology and teamwork reduced fatigue and streamline operations.

John Deere Combine in the field at harvest

Photo: Alan Look Photography

by Alan Look
Best Look Magazine

HEYWORTH - The 2025 soybean harvest across central Illinois continues during a season marked by steady yields and long hours in the field. Despite early concerns over scattered spring rains and a dry summer stretch, most growers reported consistent pod development and solid stand counts heading into fall.

September brought ideal conditions for harvest: low humidity, minimal rainfall and cool mornings that allowed combines to roll early and often. Fields dried down evenly, and moisture levels held within optimal thresholds, reducing the need for extended drying and helping streamline bin-to-market logistics.

Modern equipment played a pivotal role in the efficiency of this year’s harvest. High-capacity combines with precision yield mapping, paired with grain carts and semis, kept operations moving at a brisk pace. GPS-guided rows and auto-steer systems minimized overlap and fatigue, allowing crews to work well past sunset under LED-lit rigs.

Many operations logged 12- to 16-hour days during peak harvest windows, with some stretches running consecutive weeks without a break. The grind was real, but so were the results: consistent yields, minimal breakdowns and a harvest window that has cooperated from the start.

As bins fill and fields clear, central Illinois begins to close the book on another soybean season — one defined by resilience, technology and the drive to bring in the crop.

2025 soybean harvest Illinois, Central Illinois farm technology, long hours farming harvest, soybean yields Midwest 2025, Illinois agriculture news, Alan Look Photography

Emergency Ready: Simple steps to protect your family during disasters

Preparing a go-bag, knowing community resources, and practicing an emergency plan can reduce risk during evacuations. These small actions can make a significant difference in protecting your loved ones.

Brandpoint - Are you prepared in case of a local emergency? From severe storms to wildfires and floods, it's critical that you and your loved ones have the knowledge and resources to weather these and other disasters. This National Preparedness Month, take small steps to prepare your family for big emergencies.

Don't know where to start? T-Mobile knows how important it is for families to stay in touch with each other and reach emergency services. Over the past few years, the mobile provider has added resilience tools like AI-driven network automation, satellite-powered emergency messaging and priority service for first responders. In addition to these investments in technology and resources to support community connectivity during disasters, T-Mobile offers a few simple steps you can take now to prepare your family for a future emergency.

1. Save local emergency numbers

In a crisis, it's vital that you're able to reach your family and emergency services as quickly as possible. Look up and save important local emergency numbers including police and fire, poison control and state highway patrol in your contacts.

2. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are public safety messages sent by local, state, tribal and federal Alert Originators to provide critical information and help keep you safe and aware of dangerous weather and other emergencies in the area. Check that alerts are enabled on your phone under the notification settings.

Photo: Štefan Štefančík/Unsplash

If your phone supports satellite texting, consider adding T-Satellite with Starlink. It lets you send and receive texts (including to 911) and enables location sharing when towers are down almost anywhere in the U.S. if you can see the sky. And anyone with a compatible phone, even if you're not a T-Satellite subscriber, can still receive WEAs.

3. Conserve phone battery with low-power mode

If the power goes out during a disaster or weather event, it can be hours to days until it's restored. Turn on Low Power/Battery Saver mode, dim your screen, and limit use to essential calls and texts to stretch your charge.

4. Turn on Wi-Fi Calling

If a cell tower goes down, Wi-Fi Calling lets you place calls and texts over any available Wi-Fi, including home internet and public hotspots. Most providers support it. Look in Settings > Phone (or Connections) > Wi-Fi Calling.

5. Prepare a go-bag

During an evacuation, don't risk forgetting essentials. Stay prepared by packing a go bag with prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, first-aid supplies, a flashlight and batteries, a radio, chargers, printed maps, a jacket and sneakers, copies of key documents, water and nonperishable food.

6. Make a family emergency plan

Your family may not all be together when disaster strikes. To be prepared, make a family emergency plan and go over it together. Include a designated meeting point, a list of emergency contacts, a household communication plan and evacuation routes. Keep a printed copy in a sealed bag.

7. Know your community resources

During a disaster, connection and community are critical. Make sure you know where you can find support and check with your city and county for emergency response services.

It takes teamwork to hold communities together during a disaster. That's why T-Mobile deploys community support vehicles with robust Wi-Fi and high-capacity charging to neighborhoods during emergency events. Whether you're a customer or not, you can rely on this service to keep your community connected when it matters most.

Stay connected, stay safe

This month, take these seven small steps that can make a big difference during a disaster. To find more emergency tips and learn about what T-Mobile is doing in communities like yours, visit T-Mobile.com/News/Emergency-Response.

Week 6 Illini Prairie Conference football predictions, pick this week's winners

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden's Logan Umbarger tries to shed a Paxton-Buckley-Loda tackler during the game in early September. Stepping in for an injured Wyatt Wertz, the sophomore had 15 touches good for 44 yards and one touchdown. Can Monticello contain the Spartans' rising star in this week's homecoming game at Dick Duval Field?

Just three more weeks of regular season football to go. 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.

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Week 5 Scores

Central Catholic 41, Monticello 13
Tuscola 20, Paxton-Buckley-Loda 14
Prairie Central 20, IVC 14
St. Joseph-Ogden 56, Rantoul 21
Unity 47, Pontiac 7

Week 5 Results

Rank	Name	Record	Notes
1	Brooks Look	5-0	Week 4 winner
2	Frank	4-1	Tie-Break**
3	Denise	4-1	Tie-Break*
4	Alan	4-1	Tie-Break
5	J	3-2
6	Sara	3-2
7	Lyman	3-2

Cumulative Standings (After Week 5)

Rank	Name	Total Record	Wins	Notes
1	Brooks Look	21-4	2	Week 2 & 5 winner
2	Denise	18-7	0
3	Alan	17-8	0
4	J	16-4	2	Week 1 & 4 winner
4	Sara	14-6	1	Week 3 winner
7	Lyman	10-5	0
6	Frank	4-1	0
7	Keith	3-2	0

No Kings Movement gears up for nationwide October 18 demonstrations

Millions of Americans are preparing to take part in the second nationwide No Kings day of action on October 18. Over 2,100 local rallies across all 50 states aim to defend democracy and resist authoritarianism.

URBANA - When millions of Americans stepped into the streets this past June for the first “No Kings” day of action, it wasn’t just a single day’s protest. For many, it felt like the spark of something larger. Now, four months later, that spark has grown into a nationwide call for unity and defiance. On October 18, people from every corner of the country will gather again to raise their voices against what they see as a dangerous slide toward authoritarianism.

More than 2,100 local protests and rallies have already been confirmed, stretching across all 50 states. Organizers expect the turnout to surpass June’s demonstrations, which drew an estimated five million participants. From small towns to major cities, the gatherings are intended to be peaceful yet powerful reminders that democracy belongs to the people.

“Trump wanted a coronation on his birthday, and what he got instead was millions of people standing up to say no kings,” said Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible. “On October 18, we’re going to show up stronger and more organized than ever before.”

For community members preparing to join the marches, the day is about more than politics. April Verrett, president of the Service Employees International Union, described it as a defense of what everyday people have built together. “Working people built this country, not billionaires,” she said. “We’re protecting what we’ve built, and we’re building what’s next.”

That sense of collective ownership runs through many of the groups now organizing events. Nurses plan to march alongside teachers. Environmental advocates will walk with civil rights organizers. Veterans will stand shoulder to shoulder with young people rallying for the first time. Each community carries its own reasons for being there, but all are tied together by a common theme: resisting the concentration of power in one man’s hands.

For Jacob Thomas, a U.S. Air Force veteran, it comes down to honoring the oath he once swore. “Generations before us defeated fascism abroad,” he said. “Now it is up to us to defeat fascism at home.”

Organizers emphasize that the demonstrations will remain peaceful, with volunteers trained in de-escalation and safety. Local partners are working to create spaces where families can participate, and where communities can share both their frustrations and their hopes.

Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, said that hope remains at the heart of the effort. “This country does not and will never have a king,” she said. “The power of the people is and will continue to be greater than the man obsessed with keeping power for himself.”

As October 18 approaches, the coalition behind the movement — which includes Indivisible, SEIU, Human Rights Campaign, ACLU, National Nurses United, Public Citizen, MoveOn, and many others — is asking neighbors to bring their families, their signs, and their voices. Whether in a downtown square or a small-town park, they say the act of showing up together is what matters most.

“It’s not about party, it’s about what Americans want and need,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. “A government that upholds freedom and opportunity. A government that solves problems. A government that believes in democracy, not dictatorship.”

For those planning to attend, details about participating cities and local events can be found at NoKings.org. Organizers are encouraging participants to bring courage, compassion, and an unwavering belief that, in America, power must remain with the people — not with a king.

Casey Chlebek calls for property tax referendum amid survey showing strong voter support

The Social Security Tax Freedom Act is the second pillar of Chlebek’s MAGNA Agenda, which aims to reduce taxes, reward work, and restore opportunity. Property taxes remain a defining issue for Republican primary voters.

PARK RIDGE - Republican U.S. Senate candidate Casey Chlebek on Monday renewed his call for the Illinois General Assembly to place a statewide advisory referendum on the 2026 ballot that would give voters a direct say on abolishing property taxes.

A new campaign survey of 350 registered Republican voters across Illinois shows overwhelming support for reforming or abolishing the state’s property tax system. According to the results:

92% believe Illinois property taxes are too high.
83% report they or someone they know has been directly impacted by high property taxes—losing a home, being at risk of losing a home, or struggling to afford one.
86% want property tax reform to be a top issue in the 2026 elections.
63% support replacing property tax funding with alternative funding sources so that schools, police, and fire departments remain fully funded.

“These numbers confirm what I’ve been saying from the start: Illinois families are being crushed by the highest property taxes in America,” Chlebek said. “Homeownership should mean freedom—not perpetual rent to the government. Voters are demanding change, and I am the only candidate with a plan to deliver it while protecting schools, police, and fire services by exploring alternative funding options.”

Chlebek emphasized that only the legislature and the governor can authorize an advisory referendum but argued that Springfield has no excuse to delay when voters so clearly demand relief. His Property Tax Freedom Plan, the first pillar of his MAGNA Agenda (Making America the Greatest Nation Again), ensures that essential local services remain fully funded through replacement revenue while families finally get relief.

The survey results provide the clearest evidence yet that property taxes are not only a financial burden but also a defining campaign issue for Republican primary voters in Illinois.

Casey Chlebek, a business leader, public policy advocate, and proud Polish-American, has officially declared intention to be the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate in Illinois. His MAGNA Agenda also includes the Social Security Tax Freedom Act, the second of seven pillars designed to reduce taxes, reward work, and restore opportunity.

TAGS: Casey Chlebek property tax reform, Illinois Senate 2026, MAGNA Agenda tax plan, Republican primary Illinois, Property Tax Freedom Plan

Lydia Kilgus leads Prairie Central to convincing victory over Heyworth

Prairie Central dominated Heyworth in straight sets, winning 25-7, 25-23 to close their early-season schedule.

FAIRBURY - The Prairie Central volleyball team made a powerful statement in their final non-conference matchup of the season, sweeping Heyworth in straight sets, 25-7, 25-23. The victory on September 29 brings the Hawks' overall record to 12-9 as they head into the heart of their conference schedule.

The Sentinel's Illini Prairie Conference sports coverage Serving was a key factor in the Hawks' success, with Lydia Kilgus delivering 8 service points and Charlee Popejoy adding 7 service points and an ace. On offense, Miranda Hari led the attack with 10 kills, while Kyah Creek orchestrated the plays with 15 assists.

"The girls came out and wanted the win tonight in their homecoming week," said head coach Kirsten Smith. "It was great to see them really come out strong and together, especially that first set."

The defensive effort was anchored by Paige Young, who tallied 17 digs. Prairie Central now turns its attention to a busy week of conference play.

The Hawks will travel tonight to face Rantoul (10-8 overall, 0-2 conference) before returning home on Thursday to host St. Joseph-Ogden (7-11 overall, 1-1 conference).

Prairie Central volleyball 2025, high school sports Fairbury, IHSA volleyball scores, Lydia Kilgus performance, Heyworth volleyball match recap

Illinois steps up amid federal vaccine guidance uncertainty

The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends COVID-19 shots for all adults this fall. The standing order ensures access through local pharmacies and health care providers.

by Ben Szalinski
Capitol News Illinois

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Public Health has recommended all adults get a COVID-19 shot this fall despite federal guidelines that narrowed the group of people recommended for the shot.

IDPH released a standing order on Tuesdays that recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children between six and 23 months; children ages 2 through 17 that have an underlying risk or live in a home with another person who is at high risk for severe complications from COVID-19; any child whose parents want them to get a vaccine; people who are pregnant, planning to be pregnant or postpartum; and all adults.

CVS Covid Vaccination — Signs advertise autumn vaccinations at a pharmacy in Chicago.

The recommendation bucks new and murky guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that recommend vaccines only for people ages 65 and older. A recent CDC advisory panel vote allowed people younger than 65 to receive the vaccine after being informed of the risks and benefits of the shot, backing away from requiring people to get a prescription in order to receive the vaccine.

Illinois’ latest recommendations follow the state’s Immunization Advisory Committee Monday vote on the issue.

“IDPH’s recommendations, made in consultation with our Immunization Advisory Committee, will ensure that residents can protect themselves and their family members this upcoming respiratory season,” IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in a statement. “In addition, the accompanying standing order will allow residents access to COVID-19 vaccine in local pharmacies and other health care settings.”

Gov. JB Pritzker also issued an executive order earlier this month requiring IDPH to issue its own guidelines for vaccines this fall amid uncertainty over what the federal government would recommend.

“At a time when the federal government is abdicating its responsibility to provide clear, science-informed guidance, Illinois is stepping up,” Pritzker said in a statement. “Illinois will continue to empower providers and families across our state with the information and access they need to guard against illness and disease.”

JB Pritzker gets Covid vaccination — Gov. JB Pritzker receives his COVID-19 vaccine in 2022 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

IDPH’s standing order allows health care providers and pharmacies in Illinois to give COVID-19 shots within the department’s guidelines. It also requires federal insurance plans, insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act and state-regulated insurance plans to cover the vaccines.

Insurance companies that are members of America’s Health Insurance Plans, which are most major insurance companies, plan to continue covering the shots, according to the Associated Press.

Other vaccines

The Trump administration has also been unclear about how it will approach future recommendations on other vaccines. A CDC advisory panel last week recommended against administering the combination of measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox vaccines, MMRV, to children under 4 years old.

IDPH is recommending children and adults follow the CDC’s prior guidelines that recommend the MMRV.

IDPH is also recommending everyone receive flu shots this fall.

RSV vaccines are also recommended for adults aged 74 years old and older, adults at high risk for severe illness who are over 50, people who are between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy and children between eight and 19 months who are at a high risk of severe illness.

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.

TAGGED: Illinois COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, IDPH fall vaccine guidelines, COVID-19 vaccine for all adults, JB Pritzker executive order, RSV and flu vaccine guidance

Friday Night Forecast |
Week 5 Illini Prairie football predictions

Here are Week 5 predictions from seven IPC football fans for this edition of The Sentinel’s Friday Night Forecast.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Crewe Eckstein celebrates a touchdown against Bloomington Central Catholic earlier this month. You will find the senior in the end zone most of the night in the Rockets' homecoming game against Pontiac tonight.

URBANA - Each week, we invite Illini Prairie Conference fans to predict the winners from conference matchups. New experts are welcome every week. Here what the team of experts say this week.

Week 5 predictions

Illini Prairie Game of the Week
Central Catholic @ Monticello

Alan: Central Catholic .::. 28-17
Frank: Central Catholic .::. 34-18
J: Monticello .::. 28-20
Sara C: Central Catholic .::. 48-24
Denise: Central Catholic .::. 28-21
Lyman: Monticello .::. 28-27

Brooks Look: Monticello will throw the kitchen sink at the Saints. However, based on the way Central Catholic handled the Unity Rockets in Week 3, I've gotta go with undefeated BCC . Central Catholic 42, Monticello 21

Prairie Central @ Illinois Valley Central

Alan: Prairie Central .::. 31-14
Frank: Prairie Central .::. 21-14
J: Prairie Central .::. 20-12
Sara C: Illinois Valley Central .::. 28-21
Denise: Prairie Central .::. 27-7
Lyman: Prairie Central .::. 56-0

Brooks Look: It is redemption week for the Hawks coming off a 10-point loss to Paxton-Buckley-Loda. I see the Prairie Central swooping in for a victory on the Grey Ghosts. Prairie Central 28, IVC 14

Paxton-Buckley-Loda @ Tuscola

Alan: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 27-21
Frank: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 20-18
J: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 22-20
Sara C: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 36-14
Denise: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 28-14
Lyman: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 35-24

Brooks Look: I hate to bet against the Panthers, but Tuscola has home field advantage and a two-game win streak that started with upset on the road at Tri-Valley. Tuscola 28, PBL 24

St. Joseph-Ogden @ Rantoul

Alan: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 42-7
Frank: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 52-6
J: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 42-12
Sara C: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 50-6
Denise: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 48-0
Lyman: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 63-0

Brooks Look: The Spartan offense will cook tonight. 'Nuff said. SJO 48, Rantoul 12

Unity vs Pontiac

Alan: Unity .::. 35-13
Frank: Unity .::. 38-12
J: Unity .::. 42-7
Sara C: Unity .::. 48-14
Denise: Unity .::. 36-7
Lyman: Unity .::. 49-0

Brooks Look: Unity defense was firing on all cylinders at Dick Duval Field last week and their offense capitalized on coverage missteps by the Spartans. They will be a juggernaut in the first three quarters. Unity 49, Pontiac 7

Week 4 Scores

Monticello 39, St. Teresa 20
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 24, Prairie Central 14
Pontiac 28, IVC 7
Central Catholic 51, Rantoul 6
Unity 40, St. Joseph-Ogden 10

Week 4 Results

Rank	Name	Record	Notes
1	J	5-0	Week 4 winner
2	Lyman	4-1	Tie-Break**
3	Brooks Look	4-1
4	Denise	3-2
5	Alan	3-2
6	Sara	2-3

Cumulative Standings (After Week 4)

Rank	Name	Total Record	Wins	Notes
1	Brooks Look	16-4	1	Week 2 winner
2	Denise	14-6	0
3	Alan	13-7	0
4	J	13-2	2	Week 1 & 4 winner
5	Sara	11-4	1	Week 3 winner
6	Lyman	7-3	0
7	Keith	3-2	0

Friday Night Forecast |
Week 5 Big Twelve football predictions

URBANA - This week's prediction poll for the Friday Night Forecast is closed. Here are this week's picks from area Big Twelve fans.

Bloomington vs Urbana

GAME-of-the-WEEK!
Alan: Bloomington .::. 42-6
Clark: Bloomington .::. 35-6

Centennial @ Peoria Notre Dame

Alan: Peoria Notre Dame .::. 27-24
Clark: Centennial .::. 18-14

Danville vs Crete Monee

Alan: Crete Monee .::. 45-20
Clark: Crete Monee .::. 42-14

Richwoods @ Champaign Central

Alan: Champaign Central .::. 35-14
Clark: Peoria Richwoods .::. 28-21

Normal Community vs Peoria Manual

Alan: Normal Community .::. 49-16
Clark: Normal Community .::. 42-6

Normal West @ Peoria

Alan: Peoria High School .::. 64-20
Clark: Peoria High School .::. 28-14

With Week 5 voting closed, check back Monday to see how accurate this week's guesses were to the real thing. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a proud alum, or just love the spirit of high school football, Friday Night Forecast brings the fun of the season straight to area prep football fans. Join us in next week poll on Tuesday.

Below are the Week 4 standings.

Week 4 Results

Rank	Name	Record	Notes
1	Clark	6-0	Prefect week - woo-woo!
2	Alan	4-2

Cumulative Standings

Rank	Name	Total Record	Wins	Notes
1	Alan	21-4	2
2	Clark	19-6	2

Big Twelve football predictions 2025, Central Illinois high school football picks, Friday Night Forecast Sentinel, Week 5 Illinois prep football forecasts, predictions

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.

Get the full story...

Illini Prairie Conference scores

Big Twelve Conference scores

Scores from around the state

Danville vs Champaign Central

Normal Community vs Bloomington

Manual vs Peoria Notre Dame

Urbana vs Champaign Central

Normal West vs Waubonsie

Richwoods vs Peoria HS

Week 5 Results

Cumulative Standings

Week 6 predictions

Illini Prairie Game of the Week Rantoul @ Pontiac

Unity @ Prairie Central

Illinois Valley Central @ Paxton-Buckley-Loda

St. Joseph-Ogden vs Monticello

Central Catholic vs St. Teresa

Week 5 Scores

Week 5 Results

Cumulative Standings (After Week 5)

Week 5 Results

Cumulative Standings

Week 5 Scores

Week 5 Results

Cumulative Standings (After Week 5)

Other vaccines

Week 5 predictions

Illini Prairie Game of the Week Central Catholic @ Monticello

Prairie Central @ Illinois Valley Central

Paxton-Buckley-Loda @ Tuscola

St. Joseph-Ogden @ Rantoul

Unity vs Pontiac

Week 4 Scores

Week 4 Results

Cumulative Standings (After Week 4)

Bloomington vs Urbana

Centennial @ Peoria Notre Dame

Danville vs Crete Monee

Richwoods @ Champaign Central

Normal Community vs Peoria Manual

Normal West @ Peoria

Week 4 Results

Cumulative Standings

Taking on one of personal care's least-talked-about problems

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Illini Prairie Game of the Week
Rantoul @ Pontiac

Illini Prairie Game of the Week
Central Catholic @ Monticello