•July 27, 2022•
Over the last two years, people from all walks of life have reevaluated their priorities in the face of a global pandemic. That reevaluation has led some students to take a break from school.
While taking a break can be the right choice for some students, certain variables should be considered before pressing pause on education. Here’s a deeper look into taking a break from school.
A chance to mentally recover
Many students try to press through courses even when they are unwell or trying to recover from a significant condition. This can put students at a disadvantage that could adversely affect their academic performance, which may have an effect on their graduation prospects and future success. A break gives students a chance to get their health, including their mental wellness, in order and then return to their coursework fully focused.
Enjoy a renewed vigor for academics Read More
Illinois Jobless Rate Falls to Lowest Point Since Start of Pandemic
•July 27, 2022•
By Peter Hancock
Capitol News Illinois
phancock @ capitolnewsillinois.com
The Illinois economy added 18,800 jobs during June as the unemployment rate fell to 4.5 percent, the lowest it has been since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
That is down one-tenth of a percentage point from May, and down two full percentage points from June 2021.
Preliminary numbers released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security showed the sectors with the biggest gains during June were leisure and hospitality, professional and business services, construction, and educational and health services.
Slight declines were rported in the financial industry and the catch-all category “other services.” Read More
Capital Recap: Pritzker Tests Positive for COVID-19
•July 27, 2022•
By Capital News Illinois
Gov. JB Pritzker has tested positive for COVID-19 and is isolating at home, his office announced Tuesday, three days after he spoke at a gathering of Democrats in Tampa, Florida.
Pritzker’s press office said he is experiencing mild symptoms and has received the anti-viral medication Paxlovid, a drug that received Emergency Use Authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December for individuals at high risk to the effects of COVID-19.
The drug, according to clinical trials, reduced by 89 percent the risk of hospitalization and death from COVID-19. It is manufactured by Pfizer.
Pritzker is also vaccinated against the virus and has received two booster shots, according to his office.
The governor tested positive during “routine” testing after he arrived home from Florida having had several close contacts with other COVID-19-positive individuals at the gathering of Democrats. Read More
National Junior Angus Show

Photo by Pearl’s Pics
National Junior Angus Show
Dameron Northern Miss 1201 won owned heifer class 7 at the 2022 National Junior Angus Show (NJAS), July 2-9 in Kansas City, Mo. Quentin Day, Lovington, owns the winning heifer.
Performance Pointers that can Help Student Athletes Avoid Injury
•July 27, 2022•
Professional sports teams often note that injuries are part of the game. That notion is never too far from professional athletes’ minds, but it can be a harsh reality for student athletes to confront, especially if they have never before been sidelined by injury. Though there’s no foolproof way for athletes to avoid injury, student athletes and their families can consider these preventive measures to reduce their risk of being sidelined.
· Use diet to athletes’ advantage. A healthy diet benefits people from all walks of life, and it can be especially beneficial for student athletes. Read More
How to Plan for a Post-50 Career Change
•July 27, 2022•
Professionals change careers for many reasons. Some do so in pursuit of a higher salary, while others seek a more even balance between their personal and professional lives.
Career changes can renew a person’s passion for working, which can grow stale for individuals who have been doing the same job for years on end. Though there’s not necessarily a bad time to change careers, there are times when making such a transition carries more risk. Such is the case for individuals over 50. Many individuals over 50 may not have the financial obligations they had when they were younger, as children may have grown up and moved out of the house. That can make changing careers after 50 more palatable. However, some individuals in their 50s may be hesitant to leave the security of an established career behind in favor of something new. Hesitance about job prospects after 50 also can make some less likely to take the plunge into a new career. Read More
Facts for Families: Savory or Sweet Summertime Salsa
•July 27, 2022•
By Cheri Burcham
Family Life Educator
I love salsa!! My brother does also, and at his wedding reception, he even had a salsa bar with all his favorites! I want to share this article written by Illinois Extension intern Kelsey Smith, that is all about salsa. Kelsey says: whether you are a savory or sweet person, make fresh salsa your go-to snack this summer! Salsa is a versatile and nutritious condiment that offers many health benefits and hydration for your body. When it comes to salsa, most people think of tomatoes, jalapenos, onions, and lime juice, but I challenge you to think outside the box and add your own flare using your favorite fruits and vegetables. Read More
Lake Land College Announces Full Time Honors List
•July 27, 2022•
Lake Land College recently announced that nearly 700 full-time students earned academic honors for the 2022 Spring semester.
To qualify for the president’s list, a student must have completed at least 12 credit hours in courses numbered 040 or higher per semester, excluding summer term, with a GPA of 3.8 – 4.0.
To qualify for the dean’s list, a student must have completed at least 12 credit hours in courses numbered 040 or higher per semester, excluding summer term, with a GPA of 3.65 – 3.79.
To qualify for the honor’s list, a student must have completed at least 12 hours in courses numbered 040 or higher per semester, excluding summer term, with a GPA of 3.5 – 3.64. Read More
Jesse White Extending Driver’s License and ID Card Expiration Dates
•July 27, 2022•
Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that expiration dates for driver’s licenses, ID cards and learner’s permits are being extended until December 1, 2022. The previous extension was set to end on July 31, 2022. As a result, expired driver’s licenses, ID cards and learner’s permits will remain valid until December 1, 2022, so customers do not need to rush into Driver Services facilities. This extension does not apply to commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and CDL learner’s permits. Read More
OVHS Spring 2022 Honor Roll
•July 27, 2022•
Straight A’s
Freshmen: Grey Brault, Annabelle Cheatham, Chase Creviston, Aly Douglass, Reese Nichols, Lindsey Ozier, McKenna Phelps, Jorja Plummer, Ella Roley, Amelia Shonkwiler, Grady Sparks, Ivy Williams.
Sophomores: Gabe Benning, Cannon Bernstein, Averi Ehrmann, Jaydon Johnson, Delaney Miller.
Juniors: Grace Moeller, Stacey Orris, Karson Park, Danielle Simpson.
Seniors: Evelyn Ashley, Ikra Gunsoy, Savannah Hagerman, Mikhayla Ward.
High Honors
Freshmen: Rase Bennett, Benjamin Brown, Regan Coleman, Seth Forlines, Cameron George, Ulrich Harshman, Luke Jones, Landyn Porter, Carson Rucker, Reagan Russell.
Sophomores: Kaleb Burns, Gibson Dickens, Garrett Ferguson, Ryan Forlines, Hunter Garvin, Jacob Harlin, Madison Whitney, Ashton Wilderman, Aiden Williams. Read More
