H METOWN VOICE
PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID EDDM Retail Local Postal Customer
December 2020
Take time this Christmas season to check out the area Christmas lights.
Inside this issue you will find a listing of area places all decked out for Christmas, like the home of David & Marty Jordan along Route 130 in Grayville and around the Edwards County Courthouse.
Candy canes and boughs of holly, Festive scenes that make us jolly. The Christmas season is finally here, Bringing with it joy and cheer; And on that note, the time is due, to share best wishes with all of you. May Your Season Be Blessed and Happy!
Primary Care Clinic Now Open in Olney We’re now seeing patients, with the same great care and local doctors you know and trust. The new clinic includes all Convenient Care providers, as well as: ADULT MEDICINE • Josette
Clodfelter, FNP
• Amanda • Tanner
Dillon, FNP
Miller, MD
FAMILY PRACTICE •
H. Timothy Garrett, DO
•
Drew Schmucker, MD
•
Debra Waggle, FNP
•
Mackenzie Zuber, FNP
NEW LOCATION AND CONTACT INFORMATION: 363 N. West St., Olney (618) 392-9400 Schedule an appointment today!
PEDIATRICS •
Norma Kreilein, MD
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH •
Leslie Shan, MS, QMHP
•
Emma Engle, PMHCNS
s a m t s i r h C
Open House
Please join us for our Christmas Open House December 9 – 12. Wednesday, Thursday & Friday – 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Also, don’t forget to bring in this flyer to receive a FREE Christmas Ornament and spend an additional $299.99 and receive a Free Gift! (While supplies last)
Christmas Auction – Make a purchase and earn FREE tickets (2 tickets per $100.00 spent) – La-Z-Boy Rocker/Recliner (up to $399.99 Value) – $250.00 Holder’s Gift Certificate – $50.00 R’s Restaurant Gift Card – $50.00 Kenny Dewig Meat Gift Certificate – Drawing will be held Dec 31, 2020
104 North Main, Owensville, IN 47665 812.724.3501 • 800.440.4888 • holdersfurniture.net
Sale Includes:
La-Z-Boy, Flexsteel, Riverside and Restonic Bedding. Don’t forget Lamps, Gift Items etc. Sale prices good for entire month of December. 1 Year Free Financing to qualified buyers!
Wish You and Yours a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Albion ~ Mt. Erie ~ Olney ~ Crossville Bridgeport ~ Lawrenceville
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men
—Luke 2:14
Surgical care at its best, Close to home. • Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery • Breast Surgery • Abdominal Surgery • Proctology • Gynecologic Procedures • Aesthetic Laser Services • Sterilization Procedures • Skin and Soft Tissue Tumors (Benign and Malignant)
Dr. Patrick Molt, M.D., FACS 207 NW 10th Street, Fairfield 618-842-3813
The 54th Annual Mt. Carmel Lighted Christmas Parade will be Saturday, December 5th from 5-7 pm. This year all Parade Entries will be stationary. Attendees will “Parade by” from the safety of their own vehicles to view the entries. The Parade of vehicles will line up on the south end of Market Street down at the Railroad Street intersection. Entries will be spaced out and participants MUST stay within their designated area only.
The Wabash County Retail Merchants Committee is thrilled to announce they will be having their 2nd Annual Festival of Trees located at Merchants Park, Uptown, Mt. Carmel. Trees will need to be taken down by Monday, January 4th, 2021. Mt. Carmel WILL have jolly ol’ Saint Nick uptown this year at the Santa House. Santa will be in on Fridays and Saturdays in December. He will be available for photos at a safe distance. No one on the Naughty or nice list will be allowed in his house or on his lap this year. The Santa House is located at Merchants Park (334 N. Market Street) that is uptown, Mt. Carmel, IL. The Santa House is sponsored by the Wabash County Retail Merchants Committee.
Page 1 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Hometown Voice Local Gift Giving Guide By Meghan Fearn Over 2000 years ago, Three Wise Men traveled a great distance to show their love to the King of Kings through the giving of gifts. That expression of love is still shown today throughout many homes during the Christmas Season. To some, gift-giving is one of their favorite parts of Christmas. They will spend hours contemplating and planning the perfect gift for each person on their list. They are constantly listening for ideas that they might pick up in conversation with their loved ones. They want a gift that will show just how much they care. It is their “love language” as Gary Chapman explains in his book The Five Love Languages. To others, the thought of having to find the perfect gift causes a slight feeling of paralysis. They wait until the last possible minute to shop and wish everyone just loved gift cards! It is not that they do not wish to show their loved ones how they care. They are just much more comfortable expressing their feelings in other ways. They may prefer to say how they feel. They may say “Merry Christmas” by spending hours preparing a delicious Christmas dinner or staying late to help clean up after the festivities. Whether you love to give gifts or feel apprehensive approaching this season, this local area provides all the opportunities that you need to cover everyone on your list. To make your shopping even easier, we have put together “The Hometown Voices’ Local Shopping Guide”. It is our gift to you. It is our hope that this guide will provide you with ideas to show your loved ones just how much you care. Ultimately, we hope that as you give these gifts, you will take time to remember the true meaning of this Christmas Season, the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas! Hometown Voice Local Gift-Giving Guide The Green Thumb: Consider purchasing new garden tools, spring seed packets, a new wind chime, lawn ornament, bird feeder, a customized engraved landscape stone, a gift certificate to pick out their spring plants or to have their flower beds cleaned. Check out: Arnold Landscaping - Fearn Blasting & Painting Service - Hocking Green Thumb - K&K Landscaping - Krajec Landscaping For School Spirit: Consider a t-shirt, hat, custom sign, vinyl stickers, or hoodie customized with a team logo or mascot! (Not limited to school spirit, try a business logo
or favorite quote or saying.) Check out: C&A Boutique - Corwin Printing - Creative Arc Designs - The Grind Custom Graphic and Sports Gear - Love Notes by JP Outcast Airbrush - TJ Marche - Shelby Signs - Wabash Valley College Campus Store The Home Décor’ Lover: A beautiful wreath, quilt, floral arrangement, new dining set, sofa, candle or wax warmer can really brighten up a home! Check Out: Berries & Blooms Boutique – C Quilts - Courtney’s Custom Creations - Fifteen West – Glow by Rae - K Blooms – The Robyn’s Nest – Local Scentsy Consultant - Timberlake Furniture - The Watering Can For the Fixer Upper: Some just love to take on remodeling projects, re-paint rooms in the house, or have fun re-furbishing old furniture! Consider small tools, a new sander, or a certificate to purchase a gallon of paint, new fixture, or lumber. Check out: Kieffer Lumber – Gillard’s Hardware - Mt. Carmel Paint & Floor – Williams Construction Supply
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Hometown Voice Local Gift Giving Guide continued Antique/Vintage Lover: A dish that brings back the memories of Grandma’s cooking or a vintage lunch box your Dad used to take to work can bring back precious and treasured memories. Check out one of the vintage outlets or antique shops to see what triggers a memory. Chances are, that gift will touch the heart of your loved one! Most of these shops also carry a variety of vendor booths that will give you more ideas for others on your list. Check out: Just Around the Corner - Prairie Albion Antique Mall - Vintage Collections Beauty and Relaxation: There are so many opportunities to pamper your loved one this season. Consider a gift certificate for a massage, a skin care gift set from your local skin care consultant. Call their favorite beautician and see what they are offering this year to their clients. Pair it with hair care products they offer in their salon! Check out: Your loved ones’ favorite salon Color Me Perfect Tans – Dionna Roosevelt – Mt. Carmel Massage Therapy – Tropical Tan - Search for a local Mary Kay, Avon, or Color Street stylist - or try out one of our great advertisers like Susan’s Beauty Shop if you are looking for a new stylist For the Kids: Let us face it, kids are so much fun to buy for! You do not have to go far to find gifts that they will love. Try a local tractor dealer for your farm toys. We have locations that offer Melissa and Doug toys, Action Figures, and boutique clothing. Books also make terrific children’s gifts! Check out: Albion Equipment – The Attic – Jack of Arts - Herschel Johnson Implement – RLD Hobbies - Sydenstricker Nobbe - The Toy Store – Usborne Books, Sammy McDaniel For the Active: If sitting still is not their thing, give them a gift of motion. A gym or club membership or gift certificate to rent a bounce house or bowl will make any active friend happy! Check Out: Adventureland Bounce Houses - Backyard Bouncing – EC Fitness – I-64 KOA - Iron Jungle - Mount Carmel Fitness Center – Mount Carmel Pickle Ball Club - Premium Fitness – Spare Time Lanes - Tenpins Bowling – West Berwick Golf Course For the Health Nut: For those that are health conscious, consider a kit of essential oils or some natural health products or vitamins. These are especially appropriate and helpful in today’s climate. Check Out: The Apothecary Shop – Food for Thought - Rigg Family Care - Sheldon’s Express Pharmacy – search for your local essential oil consultant The Foodie/Chef: If they love to cook and experiment with recipes, you can’t go wrong with FOOD. Buy an inexpensive cooler and fill it with farm-raised pork or beef, organic lettuce, honey, and jams. So many are locally produced. Who doesn’t love some help with the grocery budget? Check Out: Borowiak’s IGA – Buehler’s Buy Low - Bunting Beef – Country Home Processing - Joy Lane Produce – Wiseman Family Farm
The Hunter: Our area has many avid hunters that love to visit the local gun shops. They can never have enough ammo and camo! Consider picking up some new arrows, a shotgun, hunting clothes, or filling the stocking with .22’s and hand warmers. Check Out: The Firing Line – Schuh’s Firearms and Supplies – Tupper’s Gun and Firearm Repair – Weber’s Archery Shed - The Whistle Stop The Need for Speed: Nothing reaches some hearts faster than anything on four wheels. Giving a certificate to have their vehicle detailed, oil changed, or tires rotate may be just the thing for them. Car accessories or car wash tokens make great stocking stuffers as well! Check Out: Albion Auto Parts – AutoZone - CarQuest Auto Parts - LIP Motor - Mount Carmel Auto Glass – Randy’s ATV Shop - Rees RCS – Rick’s Ashland – Super Clean Carwash - Wash-n-Go Carwash For the Drive Thru/Restaurant Lover: Again, food might be the key, but only if they do not have to cook it! A gift certificate for one of the many great restaurants in our area will be a great gift. It will also help many of the local restaurants that have been hit so hard with Covid restrictions. Check Out: Beer Bones BBQ - Big John’s Lunchbox – Bobe’s Pizza - Chappy’s - DiMaggio’s Pizza - Famous J’s Drive Thru – Guadalajara Mexican - KellyOs Pizza - Little Italy’s Pizza – Mandy’s – McDonald’s – Smokehouse BBQ - Taco Tierra - Tequilas - Tastee Freez – Twin Rivers – Two Farmers Burgers & Beignets - Vick’s Bread and Brew – Village Café’ – WVC Red Café’ For the Coffee/Soda Lover: We all know someone (or are that person) who go everywhere with our to-go cups filled with hot coffee or soda over ice. There are several area options for beautiful, custom tumblers and mugs that make great gifts. Wrap it with some of their favorite coffee beans and gift card to pick up their favorite drinks on the go! Check Out: Colyer Coffee House, Café 8:23, Coffee Room, Harper Jo Boutique, Sincerely Abbey Designs, Fastbreak Marathon, Knapp Mart The Fashionista: Clothes, shoes, jewelry, accessories…..all are crying out for the fashionista in your life. These local shops/artisans would love to help you pick out something that speaks to your loved ones’ style. (Many of the boutiques and vendor malls listed in Home Décor and Antique/Vintage above also offer items in the fashion arena.) Check Out: Eclectic Boutique – Gottman’s Custom Jewelry – Hammered Designs by Teresa - Smith Jewelers - Wild Rose Boutique For More Information: More information for each of these businesses can be found on the area Chamber of Commerce Facebook or web pages. Follow them for up-to-date business open houses, sales, and new businesses to come. Also, find more about each business on their social media platforms!
Page 3 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
America’s Farmers Grow Communities $2,500 donation from Bayer Fund awarded to Mount Carmel Junior High School Band Local Wabash County farmer, Aaron Seals recently directed a $2,500 America’s Farmers Grow Communities donation, sponsored by Bayer Fund, to the Mount Carmel Junior High School Band. The America’s Farmers Grow Communities program, sponsored by Bayer Fund, partners with farmers to provide grants to local non profits to help their communities. Through the program, farmers enroll for the chance to direct a $2,500 donation to a local eligible nonprofit organization of their choice. Mrs. Ellen Wall, Band Director at MCJHS, was excited to receive word that they had been nominated and chosen for the donation. MCJHS Band will use the funds to purchase new instruments specifically a new ¾ size tuba! “I am so thankful for this donation. Donations like this enable us to purchase larger instruments that exceed our regular budget and that of our band families.” said, Ellen Wall, Mount Carmel Junior High Band Director. Since 2010, the America’s Farmers programs have awarded more than $57 million to non profits, aspiring ag students, and public schools across rural America. Farmers know the needs of their communities best, so the America’s Farmers programs rely on them to help identify the most worthy causes. “Farmers truly understand the needs of their communities and where the opportunities to strengthen them exist. We partner with them to identify the nonprofit organizations that benefit from Grow Communities donations,” said Al Mitchell, Bayer Fund president. “Each donation shines a light on the organizations that are making a positive difference in rural communities across the country. Bayer Fund is proud to partner with farmers to give back in rural America.”
Outstanding Edwards County 4-H Members Recognized Area youth and clubs were honored for their accomplishments over the 2019-2020 4-H year. Kaylie Vallette was recognized as the 4-H’er of the year, Farm Credit Service donated the award. Hallie Shelton was awarded the Novice Member of the Year and Aly Williams received the Jr. Member of the Year. Both trophies were donated by Edwards County Farm Bureau. Three members were recognized for being, “Cream of the Crop”. The award is focused on attitude and willingness to help others. The members had to be noticed helping out on their own and was not based on 4-H records. The ones who received the award were: Skylar Greathouse, Kaylie Vallette and Emma Wiseman. They received a 4-H hoodie sweatshirt. The Best Club Secretary Award trophy went to Ellery Panthers – Lindsey Luker. The “I Dare You Award” was presented to Kaylie Vallette, with the University of Illinois Extension donating the award. The award is presented to members who “achieve their highest potential and live lives of leadership and service.” Four members received an Alumni Pin: Madison Bogle, Jace Fisher, Cheyenne Summerfield and Austin Wise. Best Club Scrapbook, Ellery Panthers. Kaylie Vallette was the recipient of the Jan Schuh Scholarship, which is given by the Yankees 4-H Club, yearly. Experience awards was presented to 30 members. To receive this award each participant must submit an application to be eligible and mark the experiences that they have achieved for the year. There are 4 dimensions of experience: Participation, Community Service, Leadership and Project Learning. Congratulations to all the winners!.
Page 4 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
The Herd/Grayville November Spotlight Awards
Shout out to our November Spotlights! Pictured above, L-R: Mellody Raber, Marley Neely, Maddy Moore. At right, top, L-R: Front row: Marlee Cowles, Isabella Sites, Caiden Martin. Back row: Landon Barnett, Emily Renshaw and Zaley Cheatle. Not pictured is Bella Morris. At right, bottom, L-R: Our awesome staff Ms. Winslow, Miss Jen, Mrs. Bohach and Mrs. Hout. Not pictured Mrs. Fishback. We appreciate all the efforts of our staff and students. Congratulations!!
Bethel United Methodist Church in Ellery will be holding a living nativity on the night of December 19th from 5:00-7:00. The event will be drive-thru at the Bethel Church in Ellery.
Page 5 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Cafe 82:3 under new ownership By Meghan Fearn Keaton Schuh has always loved to bake. She remembers baking side by side with her grandmother since the age of three. This love for baking led her to open “Cakes by Keaton.” Cakes by Keaton offers unique flavors and delicious cakes, cupcakes, and baked treats for any occasion. Cakes by Keaton was only the first step in Schuh’s business adventures. Her love for baking and coffee have collided with her head for business and entrepreneurial spirit to launch her into the next step of her life. The ownership of Café 82:3. Café 82:3 is a small coffee shop located on the campus at Wabash Valley College, in the Red Café. While Schuh’s original intentions were to simply provide the bake goods for this coffee shop, plans quickly changed. In talking with the former owner of Café 82:3, Amy Pettyjohn, the opportunity came to purchase the business. Schuh, an already successful entrepreneur through Cakes by Keaton, saw this as a great opportunity to expand and build upon her current business. With the help of her supportive husband, Kevin, a local Edward Jones Advisor, she stepped into the world of java. Café 82:3 currently has three employees and operates in much the same way it did under the previous ownership. The community can still pick up their caffeine favorites, lattes, teas, and coffee creations. Plans are underway to make a few changes, such as adding baked delights from Cakes by Keaton. She also hopes to expand in the future and have a bakery inside a coffee location as well. Though this may seem like enough to keep any person busy, Schuh’s plate is packed full of other pursuits as well. She is currently a full-time student studying Business Administration at Oakland City Univer-
sity, with one year left in the program. She also is an intern at Parkview Christian Church and continues to operate Cakes by Keaton. The love of baking, coffee, and business is not the only motivation behind her operations. Schuh genuinely loves the people of Mt. Carmel. She grew up attending Parkview Christian Church and is so happy to contribute and serve the community she loves and lives in. Schuh shared, “I’m just excited to serve the people in the community. I would love suggestions and ideas to continually make things better.” Café 82:3 is open Monday – Friday 7-12:30 and Saturday 8-12. More information can be found on the Facebook pages of Café 82:3 and Cakes by Keaton.
Page 6 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Caroltunes - Christmas Caroling Fundraiser Send Caroltunes to a friend or loved one’s front door to sing & bring them a little Christmas Cheer!! December 12, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. $25.00 - Christmas Caroling Fundraiser Socially distanced, of course! Limited Timeslots will be available and will be sold until filled Order form can be found on MCHS website. Please email Kim Mandrell, MCHS Music Director at kmandrell@wabash348.com if you have any questions.
Maxwell Zimmerman chosen as MCHS 2020/2021 DAR Good Citizen
916 Oak St. Mt. Carmel, Illinois • 618-263-4092 Acorn Estates empowers you to live more independently, on your terms. We are a community in Mt. Carmel, IL that welcomes the use of Medicaid should financial resources become low. Let our highly trained staff see to the housekeeping, maintenance, and cooking. Our residents enjoy the confidence of having nursing services and discreet personal assistance available whenever needed. Most affordable, all inclusive supportive living facility. • On Site Physician and Nursing Care
• Nutritional Care
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution DAR Good Citizens Program and Scholarship contest. CONGRATULATIONS to MCHS Senior, Maxwell Zimmerman who has been chosen as Mt. Carmel High School’s DAR Good Citizen for exhibiting dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Maxwell will continue to Part II of the Scholarship Contest. MCHS would like to thank Barb Easter and the DAR for recognizing our students.
• Private, home like apartments • On site salon • Free cable & phone • Pharmacy Services
Mention this ad for a $500 credit towards first month’s rent! Page 7 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
• Free concierge transportation services
Mt. Carmel Paint and Floor is under new ownership. Bill, Debbie and Zeth Zoltowski. A ribbon cutting and open house was held on November 15th. The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lesley Hipsher and Board President, Michelle Brooks presented them with their first dollar.
Check out the GREAT selection of Christmas Gifts available at Albion Equipment Company! Spend $100 on Ertl toys and get a $20 instant rebate! All Case IH tools 10% off through December 24th.
Albion Equipment Company Route 130 Albion, IL 445-2593
Like us on Facebook Page 8 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
ILMEA 2020 Senior Level District Festival
Congratulations to the following students who were selected for 2020 Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 5 Festival! Seniors: Riley Allen (Senior Chorus), Maggee Bleyer (Senior Chorus and Senior Vocal Jazz), Elijah Gill (Senior Chorus and Senior Vocal Jazz), and Brady Kolb (Senior Chorus and Senior Vocal Jazz). Juniors: Jonathon Bader (Senior Chorus and Senior Vocal Jazz), Timothy Rosignol (Senior Chorus and Senior Vocal Jazz), and Hannah Shular (Senior Chorus and Senior Jazz Band I). Sophomores: Chase Dowdy (Senior Chorus and Senior Vocal Jazz), James Martin (Senior Chorus), Elijah Sherman (Senior Band and Senior Jazz Band I), and Jacob Wall (Senior Band). Freshmen: Macy Mandrell (Senior Chorus). Students auditioned virtually for ILMEA this year. For Senior Chorus, a division that focuses on choral music, auditionees sang excerpts from two
selected pieces and performed tonal skills. For Senior Vocal Jazz, a division that focuses on the elements of jazz, auditionees sang excerpts from two selected pieces, performed tonal skills, and showcased improvisation. For Senior Jazz Band, a band division that performs jazz, auditionees played an excerpt from a selected piece and showcased improvisation. For Senior Band, a band division that performs concert band repertoire, auditionees played an excerpt from a selected piece and performed scales. The Festival will be a virtual festival this year, held on Saturday, November 21 for High School students featuring Masterclasses for the students in their specific performance area. Congratulations to the musically talented students who will be representing Mount Carmel High School during the 2020-2021 school year.
Let us help you with your holiday cooking and gift giving! •Gourmet Gift and Fruit Baskets •Cookie Trays •Homemade Candies • Baked Goods • Bulk Chocolates • Fruit by the Case 2020 McDonald’s “Teach it Forward” • Fresh Christmas Trees Outstanding Educator and Pine Roping Congratulations to Mt. Carmel Grade School 3rd Grade Teacher, Amanda Singer!! Mrs. Singer has been selected as a 2020 McDonald’s “Teach it Forward” Outstanding Educator. She was selected from 881 nominations from the surrounding area and will receive a $100 Visa gift card, an Outstanding Educator T-shirt and 25 customizable certificates plus McDonald’s Coupons to “Teach It Forward” (aka pay it forward) for outstanding student achievements.
Hours: Monday - Friday 8-5 • Saturday 8-4 • Sunday (through Christmas) 11-4
Bullard’s Farm Market & Bakery
Hwy. 15 East, across from Maple Hill Cemetery Fairfield • 618-842-6666
Page 9 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
INTRODUCING THE MT. CARMEL HIGH SCHOOL 2020-2021 SINGING SEVEN Maggee Bleyer (Senior); Chase Dowdy (Sophomore); Elijah Gill (Senior); Macy Mandrell (Freshman); Timothy Rosignol (Junior); Hannah Shular (Junior); Elijah Sherman (Sophomore) Singing Seven auditionees auditioned virtually this year by submitting videos of themselves, each performing the audition requirements. Each student sang two excerpts from the ILMEA Senior Chorus selected pieces and demonstrated tonal skills components such as scales and triads, both major and minor. The auditionees’ videos were judged by three highly qualified judges, all educators within the choral conducting field. Congratulations to the new Singing Seven who will represent Mount Carmel High School during the 2020-2021 school year! Congratulations to the chosen 2020-2021 Singing Seven!
If you have a story idea or picture to share...contact Laurie Snidle at hometownvoice2019@gmail. com
Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation and Acorn Estates in Mt. Carmel, IL is looking to grow their staff. If your looking for a rewarding career in a fun loving environment, they are now hiring to fill the following positions:
• RN • LPN • CNA • Activities Director • Dietary Aide
Applicants can: • Email resume to info@wlcfirm.com • Visit www.wlcfirm.com • Call 618.923.1505 to set up an interview.
Page 10 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
The Sights and Sounds of Christmas The Sights & Sounds of Christmas 4th Annual Home (& Business!) Decorating contest returns this year with several improvements: No specific theme, decorate in whatever way sends your Christmas Cheer meter through the roof! We’ll still have a Grand Champion, and we’ve added a “Merry & Bright Business Award”, along with “Best North Pole Neighborhood”. Facebook users will vote for a “That’s My Favorite Award” on December 16th & 17th. Judges will chose a minimum of two additional winners in categories also determined by the judges (we have creative judges)! “ You can pick up/return forms to the Drive-Thru facilities at First Bank, First Mid Bank & Trust, or First National Bank, as well as the Chamber of Commerce office in the lower level at First Bank, 601 N Market. To download the entire form, go to the Wabash County Chamber website, then to the “forms” page. Or, go to the Christmas Uptown Facebook page for a link for easy online sign-up. Home or business must be located in Wabash County. You do not need to be a home owner. Deadline to enter is 4pm Monday, December 14th! Winners announced Friday, December 18th at 7:45am on the WSJD-100.5 Morning Show. Sponsors are: Christmas Uptown, Retail Merchants Committee, Jeff Thompson & Sons Oil Production, Mt. Carmel Eagles, MotoRad, Travis Thompson Oil Corp and Mt. Carmel Lions Club.
MCHS Creating Fiction class - Elizabeth Savage teacher Eva Hocking Eva Hocking is a high school senior at Mount Carmel High School. She plans to attend Bradley University, majoring in History Education. She is a prolific writer and can often be found writing poems in her notebook. When she isn’t writing, you can find her decorating or crafting just about anything. A Hectic Christmas The snow glittered and danced upon the cold earth Much like how the twinkle lights glowed There was the smell of applejack in the air Everyone else seemed free of care But there was a hole there A missing piece to the semi perfect picture Spinal meningitis The author of this miss informed photograph All Christmas wishes turned into dreams of his kisses For him to sit right there and end this death scare Masks, bags, and suits All for five minutes For a little girl to see her father Then to be promptly shooed away Not a hug, Nor a handshake, But a smile, And a promise that everything will be ok The most blessed moment of that hectic day
Maggee Bleyer is a senior at Mount Carmel High School. She has been published three times for her poetry and won third place for her poem, “Justice In My Mirror” in the Illinois judicial branch “Justice Means” art and poetry contest. She is the media officer for National Honor Society, a member of Singing Seven, choir, musicals, pit section leader in band, and an avid member of the Interact Club. She’s been writing since second grade. Maggee Bleyer When not writing, Maggee is either singing, playing the guitar, or taking care of her beloved plants. christmas hiraeth christmas time is when i see them all dressed in pretty sweaters and jewels i unwrap and eat so many snickerdoodles (grandma knows those are my favorites) i hold knitted-beanies and necklaces i sit underneath the christmas tree mesmerized by the christmas glow christmas is one of those dulcet moments where i can finally see my family and hug them and tell them i love you i love you i love you i love you christmas is not all about the movies and the food and the wrapping paper it’s not about that at all even if i can’t see my family tomorrow i know i’ll see them all on christmas we will talk about our fantasized gifts we will watch “a christmas story” and recite every piece of dialogue and i will reluctantly say goodbye with those cheery words, merry christmas
Page 11 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Sponsored by Fairfield Save-a-lot where you can get low prices everyday! No Bake Cheesecake Balls - Gale Irvine Porter 8 oz. Cream Cheese, room temp. 4 Tbsp. butter, room temp. 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs 4 cups icing sugar 10 oz. chocolate chips In large bowl, mix the cream cheese and butter. Add in the crumbs, mix well. Add in sugar 1 cup at a time until mixed in well. Cover and chili overnight. Scoop with cookie scoop into balls. Roll if needed. Chill or freeze. Melt chocolate, and dip cheesecake balls to coat. Place on parchment paper and chill to set up. TIP: Freeze scooped chessecake balls before dipping to make it more firm Tea Ring - In Memory of Pat Elliott Ingredients 2 cups milk 2 pkg. dry yeast 1/2 cup sugar 1 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 cup crisco 1 egg - beaten 6 cups flour
Mix and knead. Can be mixed in a bread machine. Put in large bowl and refrigerate until needed. Cover and let rise 1 1/2 - 2 hours. Work down and let rise again. Punch down and roll out into rectangle. Brush with lots of butter. Make mix of cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle on top of butter. Roll into t-ring and cut slits all around. Flip all cuts over slanted. Place on greased pan. Bake at 3500 for 20 minutes, Icing: 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1 Tbsp. cream or milk 1 Tbsp. melted butter 1/2 tsp. vanilla May add more milk or vanilla for desired consistency Ranch Snack Mix 1 - 12 oz. pkg. pretzels 12 oz. of Bugles 1 - 10 oz. can of nuts 1 - 6 oz. pkg. of Goldfish 1 envelope ranch dressing mix 3/4 cup oil Mix all ingredients together. Add ranch dressing mix and toss to coat mixture. Drizzle oil over mixture and toss to coat. Spread on cookie sheet to dry.
Italian Beef 4-5# Rump Roast 1 tsp. garlic powder 1/2 cup water 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. pepper 1 tsp. seasoning salt 2 tsp. italian seasoning 1/2 tsp. onion salt or instant onion 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Place roast in crock pot and add ingredients. Cook on low 6-7 hours. Shred meat. Spiced Pecans 1 egg white 1/2 cup sugar 1 tsp. cold water 1/4 tsp. salt 1 lb. pecan halves 1/2 tsp. cinnamon Beat egg white slightly and add water. Beat until frothy but not stiff. Fold in pecans. Combine sugar, salt, cinnamon and add to pecans. Mix well. Spread in a single layer on a buttered cookie sheet and bake at 2500 for 45-60 minutes or until they are crisp.
Stock up on all your holiday baking essentials. Gallon Milk - $1.59 Dozen Eggs - .79¢
709 W. Main, Fairfield • 618-842-5040
Open: Monday - Saturday 8 am to 8 pm•Sunday 8 am to 7 pm
Jr Markman, Owner 1365 Illinois Route 130 Albion, IL 62806
618-446-2703 Fax: 618-446-3269
The Edwards County Housing Authority is accepting applications for income based apartments in Albion and West Salem. Utilities are included with charge for electric overage. Applications are available at the ECHA Office located at 125 W. Cherry St., Albion, IL Equal Housing Opportunity
Page 12 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Area Christmas Lights With most area Christmas activities being cancelled, this year would be a good year to spend some of that extra time with your family driving around looking at area Christmas lights. Below is a list of addresses that were submitted for you to enjoy. Albion • John & Audrey Spray, West Village Road • Johnny & Sharon Gill, south of West Village Church • Edwards County Courthouse West Salem • JD & Karen Fritchley, 607 Pinhook • Quinn & Glenna Hunley, 201 & 207 Seminary Street • Steve & Tracy Thomson, 1920 Co. Rd. 700 E • Country Financial Office, West Salem square • Tom & Averi Goodman, 507 Cooper Street
Grayville • David & Marty Jordan, Hwy. 130 • Scott & Tiff Hout, Alexander Lane • Steve & Connie Knight, 113 E. Commerce • Doug & Andy Ford, N. 1st Street • 119 E. 5th St. • 109 Park Road • 428 Sharp Ave. • 702 W. 4th St. • 719 W. 5th St. • 118 Cedar St. • 10819 Hwy. 11
Mt. Carmel • 106 Erin Drive • 2811 College Drive • 127 Evergreen Lane • 810 W. 5th St. • 714 W. 4th St. Allendale
MCHS Creating Fiction class - Elizabeth Savage teacher Kyle Dunn
Lucas Ingram
Kyle Dunn is a senior at Mount Carmel High School. He works at the local grocery store Buy-Low. In his free time, Kyle enjoys to listen to music, write, and follow current events.
Lucas Ingram is a junior at MCHS. He enjoys skateboarding and playing video games in his free time. He plans to pursue a career in the medical field after high school.
That Time Of Year Snow is falling, swirling falling, Merry Christmas -Joey Ramone Hours spent decorating, A long but satisfying process Glowing white lights, Strung amongst green pine needles Red and gold bulbs dangling, Hoping not to be destroyed by the cat White star atop the tree, Glistening brightly Plethora of wrapped gifts, Awaiting the day they will be opened Driving to see family, The yearly tradition Building gingerbread houses, Which won’t last long before being eaten Festive tunes on the radio, Filled with jingling bells and tales of snowy days The magic of Christmas, Which cannot be replicated any other time of year
Joy in a time of Darkness In a time where the mood is saddest, the air is cold, the dark is early, the stress is immense, happiness fills the air. The feeling of Christmas gives the people a feeling of nostalgia, the people a feeling of togetherness, the people a feeling of joy. The personal meanings play only a small role in its entirety. The birth of Christ, The spending time with family, The giving of gifts. What truly matters Is that we are united as a community With our bright lights, With our music, With our culture.
Page 13 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
WIFI CAFES Available at High School and Grade School during Full Remote Learn Days The WiFi Cafes continue to be available during full remote learning days. They are located at the Mt. Carmel Grade School and Mt. Carmel High School. These ‘cafes’ will have accommodations for up to forty students at a time. Students may select from a morning option (9 a.m. - 11 a.m.) or the afternoon option (12 p.m. - 2 p.m.). The Cafes are open for students in grades 3-12. Students that attend the Cafes will have to bring their own school-issued or personal computing devices and any other school work materials. While at the Cafes, the students will be required to follow all student handbook requirements and any other additional building requirements. Students will enter the Jr/Sr. High School at the main entrance and students will enter the Grade School at the gym entrance. Additionally, students will be required to have a temperature check, wear a face covering, and practice social distancing. The Cafes will also provide snacks and water along with lunch. For WiFi Cafes located at Mount Carmel Jr./Sr.High School and Mount Carmel Grade School please contact Aaron Croft by email: acroft@wabash348.com or phone: (618)-262-5104. Transportation Is Available: For those students that need transportation to the Cafes, the District will offer
bus transportation to and from the Cafes. Buses will be available for both AM and PM sections. If you need bus transportation, you will need to call 618-262-8539 between the hours of 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Friday to make arrangements.
To advertise call Laurie Snidle at 618-919-1941 or email: hometownvoice 2019@gmail.com Page 14 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
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Allendale School celebrated Red Ribbon Week during the week of October 26-30. Each day was a different theme and the students participated very well throughout the week. Monday was Wear Red - Pledge to be Drug Free; Tuesday was Hawaiian Day - Lei Off Drugs; Wednesday was Crazy Hat Day - Hats Off to Being Drug Free; Thursday was Neon Day - Our Future Is Too Bright For Drugs; and Friday was Superhero Shirt Day - Be a Superhero, Don’t Do Drugs. Pictured above L-R: Whitley Grimes and Bennett Morris; Dawson Cornwell; Grasyn Morgan; Abram Medler; Front to back, Olivia Armstrong, Kelsey Morgan, Teagan Polston, Ryland Houchin and Haleigh Prosise ; Hallie Courter and Kollin Kelsey; Wyatt Buchanan; front is Conner McGinnis and Aiden Swift, back is Emma Ford and Logan Doerr.
Page 15 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Niki Greathouses’ kindergarten class performed a song entitled I Love My Flag at the Veterans program at West Salem Grade School on November 9, 2020.
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Page 16 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
This year the Veteran’s Park decorations for the holiday season are in loving memory of Gary Arnold, Sr. Each year Kim Keepes of Keepes Funeral Home and Lesley Hipsher the Director of the Wabash County Chamber of Commerce partner to decorate Veteran’s Park that is located at 3rd and Market Street in Mt. Carmel. Thanks for trusting us with yours! Lesley Hipsher, Wabash County Chamber of Commerce Director stated “We are thrilled to honor Gary Ar- Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a nold, Sr. at Veteran’s Park this year. He has worked so Happy New Year! hard year after year to display flags on all national holidays at Veteran’s Park so it only seems right to honor him this year.”
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Page 18 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
2020 ILMEA Senior Level District Virtual Festival tions from the students, and also explored music-related careers. Students auditioned virtually last month for ILMEA. Auditionees were either accepted into Senior Vocal Jazz, Senior Choir, Senior Band, and or Senior Jazz Band. As a result of making ILMEA and participating in the virtual ILMEA festival, students have a greater chance of being accepted into All State or Honors Choir/Band. MCHS student attendees include: Senior Vocal Jazz sessions - Maggee Bleyer and Jonathon Bader. Senior Choir sessions - Riley Allen, Chase Dowdy, Elijah Gill, Macy Mandrell, James Martin, Timothy Rosignol, and Brady Kolb. Senior Jazz Band I Saxophone Hannah Shular. Senior Jazz Band I Trombone - Elijah Sherman. Senior Band I Tuba - Jacob Wall On Saturday, November 21st, selected Mount Carmel High School students attended the 2020 ILMEA Senior Level District Virtual Festival. ILMEA, in the past, held this festival at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, festivals had to be virtual this year. Besides the circumstances, students still participated in the festival and enjoyed their special ILMEA experience. There were two masterclass sessions overall for the festival. The first sessions ran from 9:00 to 10:45, and the second sessions began at 11:00 and ended at noon. The sessions focused on teaching students about the structures of their voice/instrument, enlightening them on music techniques, answered ques-
Hometown Voice
Publisher, Laurie Snidle 1069 County Road 200 E Albion, IL 62863
618-919-1941
If you have a story idea or picture to share...contact Laurie Snidle at hometownvoice2019@ gmail.com Page 19 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
7)
December 2020 Edwards and Wabash County Senior Center Menus - Sponsored by The First National Bank
EC - Sweet & Sour Chicken, Rice, Spring Rolls, Cherry Fluff
8)
EC - Ham, Cheesy Potatoes, Lima Beans, Fruit
WC -NA
14)
EC - Porkburger on Bun, Potatoes Wedges, Baked Beans, Pudding
9)
EC - Spagetti with Meat Sauce, Salad, Garlic Bread, Cobbler
15)
EC -Turkey, Gravy, 16) EC - Chicken Strips Dressing, Sweet Potatoes, with White Gravy, Okra, Peas, Fruit Cranberry Sauce, Hot rolls, Gingerbread
Rice, Broccoli, Jello
EC - Chicken Parmesan, Corn, Pickled Beets, Fruit
WC -NA
28)
EC - Polish Sausage with Peppers & Onions, Pinto Beans, Boiled Potatoes, Pudding WC -NA
29)
EC - Ham & Beans Fried Potatoes, Tomato Salad, Corn Bread, Fruit WC -NA
EC - Fish, Hush Puppies, Potato Salad, Slaw, Cobbler
WC -NA
WC -NA
24)
EC - CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS EVE
25)
CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS
WC -NA
30)
EC - Shrimp, Baked Potatoes, Cowboy Salad, Brownies WC -NA
Due to the Wabash County Senior Center being closed due to COVID, their menu was not available at press time.
WC -NA
Mashed Pototoes, Green Beans, Pudding
WC -NA
WC -NA
Tater Tots, Slaw, Cake
17)EC - Beef & Noodles, 18)
WC -NA
WC -NA
11)EC - Chili Cheese Dog
WC -NA
21) EC - Country Fried 22) EC - Pepper Steak, 23) Steak, Mashed Potatoes White Gravy, Asparagus, Pudding
EC - Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Corn, Pudding
WC -NA
WC -NA
WC -NA
10)
31)
EC - CLOSED FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE WC -NA
1) CLOSED FOR NEW YEAR’S DAY
To order a meal in Edwards County please call by 9:30 am. Albion- 618-445-2017 • Grayville618-375-7777 • West Salem-618-456-3600 Suggested donation for those 60+ in Edwards County is $5.00. Under 60, (unless married to someone 60+) the cost is not a suggested donation and is $7.00.
In Wabash County call 618-262-7403
60 and older $4.25, under 60 $6.25, students $5.00, children 12 and younger $4.25 Page 20 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
WVC TRIO celebrates first-generation college students
Mount Carmel, Ill.— Wabash Valley College’s TRIO Student Support Services program invited WVC faculty, staff and students to celebrate first-generation college students on Friday, Nov. 6. Eighteen members of WVC’s faculty, staff and student body showed up for the celebration photo, and the TRIO Upward Bound program was represented as well. The goal was for students to see how many of the instructors and staff were students, at one point, just like them. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, masks were worn and
TRIO SSS staff shared that they were saddened by not being able to create more activities for the celebration. On Nov. 8, 2017, the Council for Opportunity in Education and NASPA’s Center for Firstgeneration Student Success launched the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration. Since that time, hundreds of colleges across the nation have continued to mark this date — the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 — as a day to celebrate first-generation students on their campuses. First-Generation college student designation is one of the demographics eligible for the TRIO SSS program which is a free program. TRIO was brought about by President Lyndon B. Johnson as part of his war on poverty. Students who are income eligible also have access to this program. Please contact Tayna Smith, the TRIO Academic Counselor at WVC, if you have any questions regarding the program.
GHS English class - Laurel Patton teacher Alyssa Chiarello Hey! I am Alyssa Chiarello. I am the daughter of Matt Chiarello and Kim Sutton. I attend school at Grayville High School where I am a sophmore. I also play volleyball for the Grayville Bison. I’ve also attended summer courses and programs at the University of Evansville and Harvard. In my free time I love to paint and spend time with my friends and family A Chilly Chili Christmas It was December 20th, you know, chilly season, and the chili cook off was less than a day away. I have spent all day, scouring my recipes, trying to find the best chili combination. Have I lost every year to the same person? Yeah. Am I going to let that stop me? Absolutely not. I try a new recipe every year, but it never beats Liam’s. “The competition has to be rigged,” I think to myself. I’ve tasted his chili, and there’s no way that it beats mine. At this point, I’m starting to wonder if the judges are just tired and just call him the winner every year. I finally found the perfect recipe. It was a perfect mix of spice and that good ‘ole chili taste. I go to sleep dreaming of the perfect chili. I’m up bright and early, like a child on Christmas morning ready for presents, and ready to go. I start preparing the chili, even adding some extra holiday spirit with every stir. I take one last look around my
fully decorated house, to make sure I have everything. Then, I pack up everything into my minivan, and I’m on my way to the town square. The square is beautifully lit up with flashing lights and garland, with bows on every lamp post. There’s even flurries starting to fall. “This year will be different; I’m definitely due for a Christmas miracle! I can feel it!” Once I arrive, I set up everything and make sure my chili hasn’t gone cold. There’s nothing worse than cold chili on a chilly day. I look to my left, and I see the judges are beginning their rounds of tasting. Liam sets up next to me; presumably just to rub it in that his chili is always best. We make small talk to avoid awkwardness; holiday plans, gift ideas, family coming to visit. The judges finally reach my table, and my heart is pounding like a little drummer boy from anticipation. I watched the spoon reach their lips and I almost explode. They go to Liam’s table next, and a smug little smirk creeps across his face; just like the Grinch he is. After Liam’s table, the judges have a few tables left; then the results will be announced. A few more minutes pass, and the judges are ready to announce the winner. I hold my breath and pray. To no one’s surprise but mine, Liam won. It was a let down, but a part of me was glad that he won. He started walking towards my table. I thought he was coming over to poke fun at me, but boy was I wrong. “Hey, you did good this year.” “Thanks!” I reply. “What would you say if I offered you to come by my house on Christmas so we can make some chili together?” Maybe I will have my Christmas miracle after all!
Page 21 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
ECHS English class - Laurel Patton teacher
Ava Anderson
Hello! My name is Ava Anderson and I am a senior at Edwards County High School. I am currently spending my time completing school work, learning the piano, and serving on the Worship Team at The Roads Church. My ultimate dream is to serve across the world as a Global Missionary and I incorporate my musical talent into sharing the gospel message. When I am not traveling to Africa, Costa Rica, etc. I would like to be somewhere in the local area serving in a church.
The Best Christmas Gift Song: Noel by Lauren Daigle and Chris Tomlin Scripture: Luke 1:26-38 Christmas comes around each year and the “hot topic” of December is gifts. Families are asking for gift ideas, clothing sizes, what toys each person likes, and more. What we often forget is what Christmas really is and why we celebrate December 25th each year. To answer that question, we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The Christmas story isn’t about presents, decorations, or the holiday hustle; it’s a story of love, hope, redemption, and relationship. No amount of presents or family gatherings will ever measure up to the gift God gave us all those years ago. Luke 1:26-38 states, “In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.’ Mary was greatly troubled at his words and
wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, ‘ Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.’ ‘ How will this be,’ Mary asked the angel, ‘ since I am a virgin?’ The angel answered, ‘ The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth, your relative, is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.’ ‘ I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘ May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Then the angel left her.” God made the virgin, Mary, a mother and she gave birth to the Son of God and Son of man. As the song Noel by Lauren Daigle and Chris Tomlin states, “Born to suffer, born to save, Born to raise us from the grave. Christ the everlasting Lord; He shall reign forevermore.” God’s intentions with sending his Son in man form to the earth was to teach each of us about Him and the truths of the world. Jesus suffered all throughout his life and died on the cross for our sins. Three days after Jesus died, He rose again. Christ is the everlasting Lord and will forever be our Savior. My encouragement to you, is to remember the true meaning of Christmas and all that God has done for you in your life. Be sure to count your blessings and praise God for every moment in your life. No amount of presents, decorations, or holiday hustle can replace the great news of Jesus birth!
Attention all Young Authors
In January the Hometown Voice is going to have a special section for Young Authors. Please submit your short story or poem by December 20th to hometownvoice2019@gmail.com. Don’t forget to give a short biography on the author.
Oak Leaf Trucking, Inc. Grain Hauling Neil Fearn 618-838-3852
Mike Harris 618-839-0526
Albion, IL Page 22 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Making Lemonade out of Lemons!
Participants in the Virtual National FFA Convention, held locally at Edwards County Farm Bureau. Front L to R: Peyton Fallen, Tara Michels, Addie Bailey, Emma Glover, Emma Wiseman. Back L to R: Carissa Jefferson, Mr. Steve Clodfelter, Dominic Harris, Blake Mewes, Callie Meserole, Mrs. Michelle Wiseman, Laney Stephens, Kassidi Metcalf, Rylan Robb
Waiting to be live with National FFA on the Virtual Screen for the National Chapter Award Finalists.
Addie Bailey and Tara Michels prepare door decorations for Rest Haven Manor as a part of the National FFA Days of Service project.
Virtual National FFA Convention By Rylan Robb On October 27-29 FFA members participated in the first ever virtual National FFA Convention. Participants traveled to the Edwards County Farm Bureau, who let the members use their basement to make the event as exciting and engaging as possible! Members who attended are as followed: Emma Glover, Emma Wiseman, Carissa Jefferson, Callie Messerole, Addie Bailey, Dominick Harris, Peyton Fallen, Blake Mewes, Rylan Robb, Tara Michels, Laney Stephens, and Kassidi Metcalf. Thanks to some careful planning from the advisors, these members were able to do tons of fun activities such as touring the Watering Can and Country Home Processing, breaking a piñata, and making crafts for the nursing home. The awards received during the convention this year were far beyond expectations! First, Mackenzie Dascott received her American FFA Degree, the highest honor an FFA member can receive. The chapter received recognition as a 3 Star Chapter this year too! The highlight of the convention this year though, was Edwards County being top 10 in the nation for the National Chapter Award for Strengthening Agriculture. This is the first time this has ever happened here at Edwards County FFA. Last year, the chapter held the Milk Day event to promote the milk industry and bring awareness to the problems facing the industry. National FFA recognized our event, and we were chosen as top 10 in the nation. To compete for the number one spot, we had to record a speech to send to Nationals because of the pandemic. Being named in the top 10 in the nation is a huge accomplishment and something everyone is very proud of. We hope to do it again with another one of our events that can change an industry for the better.
Page 23 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Wabash County Farm Bureau Young Leaders turning over American Flag Program to Knights of Columbus
Young Leaders, Lewis Kieffer and Kyle Schonert, were two of the many volunteers that helped put up American flags over the last couple of years. The Knights of Columbus will be responsible for the program beginning January 2021.
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To advertise or share a story idea contact Laurie Snidle at 618-919-1941 or email hometownvoice2019@ gmail.com
The Wabash County Farm Bureau Young Leaders have been responsible for the American Flag Program in Mount Carmel for the past couple of years. Old Glory would be put up eight times a year in observance of the following holidays: President’s Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Remembrance Day, Columbus Day, and Veteran’s Day. The program was started in 1963 by the Civitan Club. The Mount Carmel Ruritan Club took over the program in the late 60’s, and the Mount Carmel Chamber of Commerce started overseeing the program in the 90’s. The Young Leaders started by volunteering to the help the Chamber of Commerce put up the flags. That volunteering led to the Young Leaders taking over the program entirely. Starting January 1, 2021, the Knights of Columbus will be taking over the program. The Young Leaders have been proud to show their community and American patriotism. They are glad the program will continue. There are currently 62 flags that get displayed at each holiday. Area business owners and residents can purchase an annual membership to the program for $25. The membership buys an American Flag, the bracket and pole to hang the flag, displaying the flag eight times a year, storage and maintenance of all equipment. Interested businesses or Mount Carmel residents can contact the Knights of Columbus member Jonas Trimble at 618-240-6164 to enroll in the program at any time.
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Page 24 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Congratulations to the winners of the first Virtual Costume Contest at ECHS: Trinity Lee (cutest), Ava Anderson (funniest), Judah Henson (scariest), Jace Rector (most original), Tori Bruce and Emma Wiseman (group). The contest was sponsored by FFA and Student Council.
Congratulations to the November Student of the Month, Harry Boudreau! He was nominated because he is working really hard in class. For his efforts, he will receive a t-shirt and beef sticks from Country Home Processing, a car wash pack from Super Clean Car Wash, a hat from Carquest Auto Parts, a t-shirt and cup from Wabash General Hospital, $10 gift card from United Mutual Insurance, $10 McDonald’s gift card, $20 gift card from Wabash Valley Service Company, and a wallet from Albion Equipcash from Matthes Farms, $20 ment Company. Great job, Harry!
Page 25 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Support Edwards County AITC through virtual auction The Edwards County Ag in the Classroom program is hosting a virtual benefit auction in conjunction with Integrity Real Estate & Auctions. The auction is available at integrityauctions.hibid.com until the end of December 7, 2020. Items will be available for pick-up at the Edwards County Farm Bureau office on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 from 8:00am until 4:30pm. Items available include seed corn, homemade desserts, Round-up, toy tractors, Casey’s pizza, Holiday World tickets and more. All are urged to visit integrityauctions.hibid.com and support the Edwards County Ag in the Classroom program.
Edwards County Ag in the Classroom lessons focus on poultry during November
Above: Albion Grade School first grade student, Cate Bunting, shows off the project she made as part of the November Ag in the Classroom lesson.
By: Jane Jones, Edwards County Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Edwards County students learned all about the poultry industry during November Ag in the Classroom (AITC) lessons. We talked about the difference between a wild turkey living in the woods and a These items and more are currently bedomestic turkey living in a ing auctioned off at integrityauctions. barn on the farm. We talk- hibid.com in a virtual auction benefiting ed about what turkeys eat the Edwards County Ag in the Classroom and foods we enjoy eating program. that come from poultry animals. Kids love those chicken nuggets and chicken strips! The new Poultry Ag Mag was sent home with students. The Ag May is full of information about the poultry industry. You can check it out for yourself on-line at http://www.agintheclassroom.org/TeacherResources/AgMags.
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705 W. Main, Fairfield•842-3544 • M-F 9-5 • Sat. 9-3 Page 26 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Dreadful Silence - by Daisy Roser Meet the Author
Daisy is the 13 year old daughter of Tim and Angela (Hawkins) Roser. Daisy is a homeschooler who lives on a farm near Enfield, IL. She spends a lot of time tending animals, but she enjoys most a beautiful horse named Hondo. She loves to draw and read and plans to be a best selling author some day.
How long has it been now? It seems like forever, days and months bleed together to make an endless nothing, an endless silence. Four years. Four endless years since it happened. Forty-nine months I have been deaf. Two-hundred weeks, since I have heard anything but silence. I have figured it up in my head as I listen to the endless, droning silence. They said it was an accident, I don’t remember it. I could have fallen, could have run into something, it could have been a car accident, I don’t remember, I don’t care. I remember those days, watching as nurses flitted around me on silent feet. I waited, three weeks in the hospital, waited for my hearing to return. I begrudgingly learned the sign language my mother took-to-using while I listened to the silence, droning on and on and on, stretching to an endless nothing, endless silence. I used to complain, coming from a large family, them always running about when I was trying to study, them always making noise when I was reading. I complained about the hammering of feet on the low-grade floorboards, the endless screaming and giggling, people waking me at all hours of the night. I complained about my sister shifting in her sleep, waking me. I would give anything to have that back now. Because all I can hear is silence droning, deafening silence. After it happened I couldn’t study, I couldn’t work, I couldn’t do anything, the silence was too distracting. I would spend endless hours sitting, waiting, watching for a sound, for anything. Sometimes I would feel the vibrations of the floor beneath my feet. I would know someone was running, their feet pounding against the floor. I strained, I listened, waiting to hear it, to hear them, to hear anything. But all was silence. I say I’ve gotten used to it, whenever people ask me. But I haven’t, I don’t think I ever could, not after once hearing. After walking by a waterfall, and listening to the sound of it bubbling and foaming, sometimes roaring. After hearing the rain pounding against a tin roof.
After listening to the crunch of dried leaves beneath my feet. After waking to the sound of birds chattering in the trees. I can never get used to only hearing silence. Sometimes when I’m walking along a street, people will stop me, tap me on the shoulder. Maybe they’re trying to say hi, maybe trying to tell me I’ve dropped something and haven’t noticed. I see their lips moving, the friendly smiles on their faces. And I hear nothing. I strain, I wait, I listen, hoping against hope that maybe, maybe this time. But no, nothing. All I can hear is silence. They repeat it when I make no reply, their mouths open wider, stressing the words harder. They try to make me hear by speaking louder. But no, if only it were that. After a third time, the friendly smile falls from their lips. I open my mouth, trying to tell them, shaking my head apologetically, saying that I am deaf. And that’s the worst part, I open my mouth, say the words, and I can’t hear myself. I open my mouth, I speak, and I can’t hear myself. I have to resist the urge to speak louder, as if the silence is a noise, blocking my voice from my ears. As if I just speak loud enough I could hear myself over the deafening silence. Their expression changes, no longer frustration. Now their faces are pitying, that’s worse. They shake their head, mouth something like, “I’m sorry.” But I never hear it. Then they walk away. I fight back tears, I cannot hear their footsteps against the concrete. I don’t eat as much now. Before I was healthy, even a little chunky, but now I am thin and willowy, my bones are visible through my skin. Because hearing is half the fun of eating, I used to eat chips just to hear the crunch when I chewed. Sometimes, now, people will glance over at me from time-to-time, a concerned expression on their faces, I’ll know I was chewing loudly. But I canStop and by Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm too and Saturday 8 am to pm and not12hear it. check out the new fresh cut meat case and frozen continued page food we have available. You’ll never know what youon will find!28
Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm • Saturday 8 am to 12 pm
Page 27 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Dreadful Silence - by Daisy Roser continued continued from page 27 Before, I was dark and tanned, freckled in every imaginable place. Now, I am pale and wan. My freckles have faded, leaving my skin the color of a stylish southern lady, hiding beneath her parasol. I hate being outside now, I cannot hear the birds chirping, the cows lowing, the wind rustling through the leaves. And I miss it. I miss it so much. Yet I hardly remember it, all those memories of sounds slowly fade. Leaving me with only memories of dull, monotonous silence. Leaving me with only a vague impression of something missing, something I don’t remember, yet I miss so badly. And yet, no, I said that wrong. I still remember it, a little, and what I remember I know I’ll never forget. Would you believe the sound I remember most, that I miss most? My family’s voices, I was the silent one of the bunch, hardly ever speaking, unless I was on a sugar high. I was the serious one, always ready to get my work done and then go hide somewhere quiet. But the sound I miss most is laughter. My Dad’s deep laughter, my sister’s high, giggly laugh, my brother’s low, hoarse guffaw. And it’s all gone now. I miss my mother’s voice, whispering that she loved me, even when I didn’t want to hear it. I miss my brother’s, taunting me affectionately about my appearance. I miss the sound of their voices… I miss the sound of my own voice. I used to be great with accents, my friends would plead for my Scottish accent or my French accent. I could do an Australian, I could do an exaggerated southern, hillybilly, or a high, prissy, plantation heiress. And now, I can’t. I used to be a singer, that was what I wanted to be. I never bragged, but I knew I was good, I knew I was very good. I loved singing in church, singing in the car, with the radio on. Letting my voice soar higher than other voices could reach. And now, I can’t. I cannot control my own voice. I know without hearing that it is tuneless, pitchless, purposeless. Instead, I watch the others in church, with their mouths open, eyes closed, swaying to the time of the music. I watch them silently, longingly, wishing I could be like them. One of my favorite memories, when we would be on a road trip late at night, all of us kids half-asleep. Dad, in the driver’s seat, would hear a song he liked on the radio. And he’d turn it up way too loud, jerking us from our slumber, we’d all smile begrudgingly and sing along with voices croaking from slumber. We’d get used to the new volume and slowly drift back asleep, but then he’d hear another song he liked. He’d turn it up so loud we could hear the music pulsing through the entire car. We’d feel the vibrations of the music beneath our seats and scream along with it at the top of our lungs. He still does it, late at night he’ll wake all the others up,
they’ll start singing, and I’ll sleep right through it. Sometimes he’ll turn it up loud enough the vibrations wake me. I put my hands on the speaker and feel the music as best I can, getting as close as I can to hear. When I was little I’d always imagine the van with a set of headphones on its head, bouncing over the hills, speeding and bumping to the sound of contemporary Christian music. I’d duck my head in embarrassment as we raced past people’s houses, van dancing, Christian music pouring out of open windows. But now I don’t really care, I can’t hear it, can’t hear people scoffing at us and our giant van… why should I care? When our pastor speaks, I watch his mouth move, watch his emphatic hand motions and sincere expression. I watch the others around me, with thoughtful expressions on their faces, contemplating his undoubtedly deep and penetrating words. And I wait, still and silent. I wait, while the unbreakable silence, hangs around me like an untouchable barrier between me and the rest of the world. But wait, there it is... I hear it, thank the good Lord Almighty… I was only dreaming a dreadful dream. The giggling, ah yes, thank you God for sisters and brothers, Dad and Mom, roosters crowing, puppies barking, Christmas music, and ears to hear.
Northside Missionary Baptist Church wants to Share God’s Love with Grayville • FREE Food Bundles will be given away in the church basement begining at 8 a.m. on December 12th. • A FREE Community Meal will be served by carry out only from 5 - 7 p.m. at the church on December 16th.
Northside Missionary Baptist Church
805 North State Road, Grayville Current service time - 10 am Morning Worship Pastor Dennis Seidel Youth Leader Amanda Johnson
Page 28 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Wabash General Hospital adding neurology services Wabash General Hospital’s President and CEO, Karissa Turner, is pleased to announce Dr. John Pidgeon will be joining the WGH staff later this month to offer neurology services to patients 16 and older. Mrs. Turner stated, “We are excited to expand our specialty services to meet the needs of our service area. Access to specialty care is always a challenge in rural markets so we are delighted that Dr. Pidgeon will bring a much needed service to our area. Wabash General Hospital strives to offer quality services locally so patients do not need to travel for the care they need.” Dr. Pidgeon completed his medical school at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York in May of 2003. Then, he completed an internship at University Hospitals of Cleveland in Cleveland, Ohio, before completing his residency at the University of Hospitals of Cleveland – Case Western Reserve University in the Department of Neurology in June of 2007. Dr. Pidgeon has a special interest in EEG/Epilepsy and Sleep Medicine, which he has completed a fellowship in both of those areas. He is also board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Pidgeon will be seeing patients at WGH’s Primary Care Office located at 1123 Chestnut Street in Mount Carmel. He will be able to treat the following conditions: Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia - Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)- Bell’s Palsy - Cerebral Palsy - Encephalopathy - Epilepsy - Guillain-Barre Syndrome - Hunting-
ton’s Chorea - Meningitis and Encephalitis - Multiple Sclerosis - Parkinson’s Disease Peripheral Neuropathy - Headache - Shingles - Stroke For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (618)263-4376.
Allendale School was proud to team up with the Allendale Masonic Lodge in their can food drive to support WADI. In the picture at left: Hallie Courter (front), Blake McDonald (left), Alex McGinnis (back), and Allen Trinkle - Master of Allendale Masonic Lodge.
Look for the digital edition of the Hometown Voice on Facebook. Page 29 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
The Herd/Grayville October Spotlight Awards
October Student Spotlights are L-R: 3rd grader Harlan Rose and 2nd grader Destiny Downs. Our Staff Spotlight is the awesome Miss Jenny Turner Neal! Be sure to congratulate them!! *Not pictured is our equally awesome Cafeteria Staff*
The Herd/Grayville Halloween Coloring Contest winners
Winners for the The Herd/Grayville Halloween coloring contest. L-R: Kindergarten - Selah Trimble and Addi Turner. 1st Grade - John Bohach. 2nd Grade - Dakota Edwards and Liam Lofton. 1st place winners received a goody bag and $5. Runners up received a goody bag. All kids received a piece of candy for participating.
Winners for the The Herd/Grayville Halloween coloring contest. L-R: 3rd Grade - Destini Suessen and Mason Stover. 4th Grade - Elijah Folsom and Lucian Biggins. 5th Grade - Zaren Cheadles and Shyann Bryant.
Page 30 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Grayville High School Homecoming
December 7-11 will be Homecoming week at Grayville High School. There will be a variety of activities culminating with the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen during the class competition games. A dance is scheduled for Saturday, December 12th. Pictured above, at left, are the class attendants. Front row l-r Freshman Kyndal Duncan, Sophomore Kylee Hosman, and Junior Kiki Robinson. Back row l-r Freshman Tyzae Rowland, Sophomore Bryson Lee, and Nic Snyder. GHS Homecoming King and Queen candidates pictured above right, Front row l-r Payton Howard, Madelyn Cunningham, Aydreanna Gill, and Kamille Johnson. Back row l-r Parker Burton, Kaidan Funkhouser, Garrett Stone, and Brayden Hatcher.
Christmas MERRY
& Happy New Year
Page 31 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Allendale School October Students of the Month
Allendale School is proud to announce the Students of the Month for October: Left to right, first row: Owen Phelps (Kindergarten), Henry Buchanan (1st Grade), Vivian Doerr (2nd Grade). Wyatt Buchanan (3rd Grade). 2nd row: Haleigh Prosise (4th Grade). Kate Andrews (Jr. High), Rhiley Byrns (Jr. High).
Hometown Voice Seaton & Laurie Snidle
Helping you protect what matters most
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Tia Morgan, FSCP® 827 Chestnut St Mount Carmel, IL 62863-1456 (618)262-2005
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Page 32 • Hometown Voice • December 2020
Now more than ever, personalized advice matters Logan Bailey Assistant Vice President Financial Advisor 812.473.7318 logan.bailey2@ml.com
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 7300 EAGLE CREST BLVD Evansville, Indiana 47715 www.fa.ml.com/logan-bailey2
I would like to join my entire staff in wishing everyone a very Happy Holiday season. Steven Thomson
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value The Bull Symbol is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. MAP2955741 Vault-BA17XL | MLWM-242-AD | 470944PM-0320 | 03/2020
Financial Representative West Salem, IL 62476
(618)456-2309
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Santa has delivered a large selection of toys just in time for Christmas! Stop by and check them out while the selection is best!
HERSCHEL JOHNSON IMPLEMENT, INC. 652 IL Route 15, AlbIon•445-4902
Glory to the Newborn King!
As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, we give thanks for the many blessings and good fortune he has bestowed upon us. May the spirit of the season fill your heart and home with love. We wish you a wonderful Christmas and a year filled with peace, prosperity, good health and good fortune.
14 N. 4th Street, Albion•445-2306
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