H METOWN VOICE
Look inside to find out what the area fitness centers have to offer to help you keep your New Year’s Resolution!
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Wabash Valley College celebrates 60th Anniversary On December 10th, 2020 the Wabash County Chamber of Commerce was honored to help Wabash Valley College commemorate their 60th year anniversary. They had a wonderful reception at the Red Café where Chamber Board Members and WVC Administration celebrated with sweet treats and drinks provided by Cafe 82:3. Wabash County Chamber of Commerce Board Members and Staff also had the pleasure of honoring Mrs. Louise Acree as a long time Chamber Board Member that will be retiring from the Board at the end of this year. Mrs. Acree has served on the Board for 35 years. She was awarded a Life-Time Membership for her dedication and a donation of $350 to the John Acree Scholarship Fund in her name.
“Wabash Valley College is such an asset to our community. I am WVC Alumni along with many other people in our community and communities surrounding us. I am proud to have gone to WVC. We are also proud to have had Louise Acree on the Chamber Board for so many years. She is also an asset with her knowledge and words of wisdom that have helped me through so many things during my time working for the Chamber. I would say I am going to miss Louise, but I think I have talked her into remaining a Friendof-the-Board that will still help with our special events!” stated Chamber Director, Lesley Hipsher.
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Page 1 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
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Please help welcome Megan! Megan Pierson is the Extension Program Coordinator working with 4-H Youth Development in Wabash County. She was born and raised on a small livestock and grain farm however once her parents started her in the 4-H program she was able to find her passion for the livestock industry and started her own purebred Hereford operation as her 4-H project. 4-H has always had a special place in her heart as it gave her so many amazing opportunities and has helped shape her into the person she is today. During her time as a 4-H member, she also had the opportunity to serve on the Illinois State 4-H livestock ambassador team as well as she was elected to be a 4-H chair on the Youth Education in Agriculture Committee. More recently Megan has graduated from Illinois State University where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Animal Industry Management. She is excited to start her career in Wabash County where she hopes to help youth find their passion in the 4-H program just as she did. Megan can’t wait to meet everyone and welcomes you to reach out to her if there is anything she can 916 Oak St. Mt. Carmel, Illinois • 618-263-4092 do to help. 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
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Illinois Eastern Community Colleges will have three full-term Board of Trustees seats to be filled in the local election on April 6, 2021. Members of the Board who are elected to a full term will serve six years. Current Board Chairman G. Andrew Fischer has announced he will not seek re-election. Incumbents Barbara Shimer (Robinson) and Jan Ridgely (Olney) both have terms that expire in 2021. Both Shimer and Ridgley have filed petitions for reelection to the Board of Trustees of Illinois Eastern Community College District No. 529. Roger Browning (Mt. Carmel), Jeff Cutchin (Allendale) and Brady Waldrop (Sumner) also filed petitions for election. Continuing trustees are: John Brooks, Hutsonville, Gary Carter, Fairfield, Brenda Culver, Noble and Al Henager, Mt. Carmel.
Page 2 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Local Gyms Help with New Year’s Resolutions By Meghan Fearn It is time for those New Year’s Resolutions. Start getting organized, saving money, and getting in shape (the number one resolution on most lists)! At least that is what the top three New Year’s Resolutions are according to a quick internet search. However, this quick search on New Year’s Resolutions also includes comic quotes as follows. Dear New Year’s Resolutions, Well, it was fun while it lasted. Sincerely, January 2nd If getting in shape is your New Year’s Resolution, there is no need to look further than Edwards and Wabash Counties! With several gyms boasting different styles and locations, there is sure to be something that works for every fitness need. Each gym inspires motivation to help your resolution last past January 2. Jump into the New Year by checking out one of the following opportunities in your area. EDWARDS COUNTY E.C. Fitness – This 24/7 keycard access gym is located on Main Street in Albion. The gym began when the building came up for sale in 2010. Trevor and Jackie Borowiak purchased the building and set to work restoring and preserving its history. Many people mentioned the need for a gym to the Borowiaks. Always looking to serve the community, they purchased equipment and worked toward providing a safe and clean environment for people to exercise. At the time, their son Jace was in high school and he really enjoyed working out and lifting. It was the perfect way to give him some business experience, along with something he was passionate about. He has since joined the Navy and his siblings have stepped up to manage and maintain the gym. The gym offers treadmills, free weights, ellipticals,
and a separate dead-lift area. It also provides lockers, showers, free wi-fi and members-only tanning. With the hardship of Covid, the Borowiaks lowered their monthly membership to $25 per month for ages 15 and up. To get started with E.C. Fitness, call 618-445-4000. Elite Sports Performance – If an individualized and customized workout is what you are looking for, Elite Sports Performance is the place to start. Daniel Luebbehusen and Jeanie Stuessel wanted to create a
place to use their USAW Olympic Lifting Certification to help strengthen athletes, especially baseball players. Luebbehusen, a certified bio-mechanics specialist uses the study of body movement and joints to create a workout that targets power. “An athlete needs more than strength and conditioning, they need power. This is a combination of speed and strength.” says Luebbehusen. Located at 438 New Street in West Salem, they are open by appointment and give individual lessons for $20/hour and offer group sessions for $10/hour. They love to work with families and accept ages seven and up. If you are looking for personalization, strength, and speed, Elite Sports Performance is the place for you.
Page 3 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Local Gyms Help with New Year’s Resolutions continued . Find out more by calling 618-599-6673 or you can message them on Facebook. Iron Jungle – Chris Kelsey has always enjoyed lifting and has spent his military career staying in shape and focusing on strength. He and his wife, Teresa, opened the Iron Jungle in 2019. Their hope was to provide a place for serious lifters to come and train. Along with the Olympic weights, they offer bikes, steppers, treadmills, etc. They also plan to add a continual rope climbing machine soon. The gym is located at 221 North 4th Street in Albion and has a 24/7 keypad entry. Membership is $30/month and there is a 10% discount for students and military. Protein bars and energy drinks are for sale as well. They take the health of their members very seriously and follow a strict cleaning regimen. They enjoy watching the growth and commitment of their members and providing an environment that encourages health. For more information on the Iron Jungle, call 1-682-800-4766 or message them on Facebook.
key fob entry. Personal training is available with Trey Beckerman in 30-minute and one-hour sessions. There are a variety of membership packages available, including a month-to-month for $40/month, $35/month for a six-month contract and $30/month for a 12-month contract. Located at 530 North Walnut Street in Mt. Carmel, you can find out more information about Mt. Carmel Fitness Center by calling 618-262-8300. Premium Fitness – Owned and operated by brothers Blake, Chase, and Shane and their father, Scott Witsman, Premium Fitness is all about community involvement and family. Located at 511 W 7th Street in Mt. Carmel, Premium Fitness is a 24/7 gym that has a traditional weight room, functional fitness area, and plenty of space for open movement. The Witsman men just finished a 4,000-square foot addition that allows room for small group training and fitness classes. Mariah Nimmo offers personal training and specialized fitness routines within Premium. Mary Catherine Deming and Chloe Farmer also offer classes within the Premium family through MTC Fit. The classes range from high-intensity fitness for women to a 50+ Senior class. They specialize in music and movement to motivate. MTC Fit has a Facebook page where you can contact Mary Catherine for more information on times and cost. Premium Fitness offers a no contract $30/month membership with no sign-up fee and monthly billing. Contact Blake at 618263-2356 for more information or visit their website at www.premiumfitnessmtc.com.
WABASH COUNTY Mt. Carmel Fitness Center – Caleb Macer is a petroleum geologist by day, but his favorite hobby and passion is fitness. As someone who loves to work out, Macer purchased the former Anytime Fitness building, with the hope of sharing that passion with others. After undergoing a major transformation and remodel, they opened in February 2020 and offer workout options in every form. Anything you need is available – ellipticals, free weights, treadmills, weight machines, etc. With the focus about 50% cardio and 50% strength, Mt. Carmel Fitness Centers offers a well-rounded workout environment. They have free wi-fi, six member-controlled televisions, and showers available. It is open 24/7 with a
Page 4 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Albion Grade School Spelling Bee Winners Congratulations to the Albion Grade School Spelling Bee winners. Top picture AGS 3rd-5th Winners: (As pictured left to right): Adyson Henton 4th place, Olivia Lankford 3rd place, Jeter Duncan 2nd place, and Truitt Shepherd 1st place. Bottom picture AGS Junior High Winners: (As pictured left to right): Alice Robb 4th place, Avery Sweeney 3rd place, Owen Grimes 2nd place, Bree Peach 1st place.
Allendale School November Students of the Month
Allendale School is proud to announce the November Students of the Month: (L-R) Madisyn Weiss (Kindergarten), Whitley Grimes (1st Grade), Easton Garrett (2nd Grade), Colton McGee (3rd Grade), McKinlee Grimes (4th Grade), Isaiah Courter (Junior High), Avery Swift (Junior High).
Look for the digital edition of the Hometown Voice on Facebook. Page 5 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Did you know that poinsettias are trees? By: Jane Jones, Edwards County Ag in the Classroom Coordinator During December, Ag in the Classroom (AITC) lessons, Albion Grade School third grade students in Mrs. Shepherds science class studied about trees with AITC and made some beautiful poinsettia decorations. Then, the Edwards County High School FFA students, with the help of AITC coordinator, created the monthly agricultural education bulletin board using the poinsettia decorations. Did you know poinsettias are a tree, not a flower? According to the “Seasons” Ag Mag, the poinsettia is scientifically considered a small tree, or shrub. The colorful leaves of this shrub can range in hue from flaming red to pink to white. The Ag Mag goes on to say that In the U.S., there is no plant more associated with the holiday season than the poinsettia. The decorative nature and the ability to thrive indoors have led to this festive plant becoming a mainstay in annual holiday displays. There is even a book written about the poinsettia called “The Legend of the Poinsettia Tree.” Maybe you would enjoy making it a holiday tradition to read this book to your family.
Above: Sawyer Longbons and Tenzlee Cooper, third grade students at Albion Grade School show off their poinsettia flowers made as part of their December Ag in the Classroom lessons. At left: Poinsettia flowers made by third grade students at Albion Grade School decorate the agricultural education bulletin board inside the school. These flowers were made as part of an Edwards County Ag in the Classroom lesson.
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ECHS FFA Greenhand Quiz On November 16, 2020, first-year FFA members competed in the Greenhand Quiz Bowl. Participants included Aly Williams, Lindsey Luker, Jacob Weber, Campbell Biggs, Lidia Kelsey, Trenton Jefferson, and Maverick Moore. The contest was held virtually through Kahoot. Members answered questions based on their knowledge of FFA. The team Pictured above: (L-R) Campbell Biggs, Aly Williams, Lidia Kelsey, received 2nd place at the section Lindsey Luker, Trenton Jefferson, Jacob Weber, and Maverick Moore level, with Lindsey Luker in 2nd enjoy the first-ever Section 23 Virtual Greenhand Quiz Bowl. place as an individual.
OCC Baseball Winter Camp January 23rd OLNEY, Ill. — Olney Central College Baseball will host a Winter Camp on Saturday, Jan. 23 at the OCC Gymnasium and Britton’s Bullpen in Olney. The camp, for ages 6 through 12, will meet from 9 a.m. to noon. Instructors will include the OCC coaching staff and players, along with Phil Britton, a two-time NJCAA All-American who played minor league baseball for seven years. The cost is $60 and those attending will need to bring a bat, glove, helmet and shoes. To pre-register or for more information, call Coach Dennis Conley at 618-395-7777, ext. 2131, or 618843-0333. You also may contact him by email at conleyd@iecc.edu. Registration forms are available at www.iecc.edu/occ.
Hometown Voice
Publisher, Laurie Snidle 1069 County Road 200 E Albion, IL 62863
618-919-1941
If you or your loved one need a New Home for the New Year, we have a place for you! Our staff is working hard to keep our residents safe and healthy and we are EXCITED to offer our residents the COVID-19 vaccine.
We have several private rooms and offer the following services: • Nursing Care • Nutritional Care • Rehab & Therapy • On Site Physician • Pharmacy Services • Social Services • Rebound Rehab to Home • Dementia Memory Care Unit • Hospice & Respite Care • Medicare/Medicaid certified
Oakview Nursing & Rehabilitation 1320 W. 9th St., Mt. Carmel 618-263-4337 Page 7 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
MCHS students earn highest scores at ILMEA District V ILMEA auditions
(L-R) Timothy Rosignol - Vocal Jazz - Tenor / Senior Chorus - Tenor; Hannah Shular - Jazz Band - Baritone Saxophone; Natalie Roberts - JH Jazz Band - Alto Saxophone; and Elijah Sherman - Jazz Band Trombone / Senior Band - Trombone Mrs. Ellen Wall and Mrs. Kim Mandrell are proud to announce the Mt. Carmel Junior High and Mt. Carmel High School Music students who had the highest score in their audition room this year at District V ILMEA auditions. Students were selected, by rigorous virtual auditions, to participate in ensembles at the district level. These students scored the very highest amongst their peers granting them the highest of honors at the district level. Congratulations to Natalie Roberts for having the highest audition score out of all of the ILMEA Junior high saxophones in her audition room this year for jazz alto saxophone! She was one of the eight Junior high students from Mount Carmel Junior High who participated in the virtual District ILMEA festival this year. She was selected for both concert band and jazz band alto saxophone. She is the 8th grade daughter of Chris & Staci Roberts.
If you have a story idea or picture to share...contact Laurie Snidle at hometownvoice2019@gmail.com
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Earth Day, Every Day: A Cap Project to Honor the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day
Mrs. Wiseman and Jane Jones with the Edwards County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom sought and received 2 grants for a special project in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day. With the help of the IEA Score Grant and an FFA grant from Farm Credit Illinois, the dream of encouraging recycling while giving back to the community became a reality. For several months, the Edwards County FFA has been collecting caps as a service project. Members have been helping to collect and sort out these caps so they can be made into benches. Throughout this school year, members met in the woodshop to sort out these caps and weigh them to make sure enough benches could be made. The chapter planned to donate these benches to many different places including: Edwards County Senior Citizens, West Salem Grade School and their Outdoor Ed site, Albion Grade School, Albion City Park, and West Salem Park. The chapter wanted to give back to the community in a time of uncertainty and thought this was one of the best ways to do so with their given resources. They have accomplished this service project for the community and will continue to set and meet goals to help the community grow!
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
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618-842-PROM (7766) Hours: Tues-Fri 9 am - 5 pm; available. Sat 9 am - 3 pm
Pictured above: The Friends of Grayville filled 200 Holiday Love Packs of food for the local school children. FNB/Tri-Co Bank and many other community businesses, churches and individuals donated money and food. Pictured are: L-R: Katie Hooper, Colleeen Whyte, Andy Brock, Mary K Kendrick and Sherrie Ward
Mt. Carmel Reverse Christmas Parade
Unit #25 Extension will be providing fun activities for the next several months for 4-H members. Each month through April, members will be able to register for the activity. Links, to register, will be posted on the Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash and Wayne counties 4-H Facebook pages.
The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce held the “Reverse” Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 5th, 2020 in Mt. Carmel. It was held on the same day, time and place as usual, but a huge turnout of folks came out to “Parade” by. Parade goers started lining up on the south end of Market Street for the night time event that featured entries, decorated storefronts, emergency vehicles, and SANTA at the Santa House. The Best of Parade Award went to First Mid Bank. Best use of Theme Hope Lutheran Church. Most Original entry was the Lady Aces Golf Team. Best Use of Lights was awarded to Backyard Bouncin’. The Best Use of Music was First National Bank. The Spirit award was given to The Attic Ladies & Children’s Boutique for their scene out of Whooville! A new category that was judged this year was Best Business Participate on the Parade Route that was taken by Mt. Carmel Public Utility, Co. “They have the most adorable Christmas Gnomes in their planters that the judges just loved! The parade was overall a huge success.
Page 10 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Mt. Carmel Reverse Christmas Parade
Page 11 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Allendale CCSD 17 is proud to announce Tonia Hawf has earned the title of National Board Certified teacher and Master Teacher designation on the Illinois Professional Educator License! Mrs. Hawf teaches fifth through eighth grade mathematics at Allendale, as well as sixth grade social studies. Congratulations Mrs. Hawf, from the Allendale CCSD 17 Board of Education, Administration, Faculty, Staff, and Students
Recently, the Edwards County Farm Bureau Young Leaders delivered Christmas gift bags and blankets to Rest Haven Manor in Albion. Due to nursing home’s lockdown caused by COVID, the group wanted to spread some Christmas cheer to the residents. All residents received a blanket, homemade card, and gift bag. Pictured, Rest Haven administrator, Joseph Lane, and Edwards County Farm Bureau volunteers, Jessica Melloy and Jordan McWhirter, and manager, Rebecca Perry.
To advertise call Laurie Snidle at 618-919-1941 or email: hometownvoice 2019@gmail. com Page 12 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
MCHS Sophomore Olivia Alka Moving On To State with Getting Corney with Corn The District 5 Agriculture Education Career Development Event was held on Tuesday, December 8th where FFA Member Oliva Alka submitted a lesson plan “Getting Corney with Corn” consisting of 3 objectives with worksheets, note sheets, and a PowerPoint, prior to the event. Each participant would then teach an Intro to Agriculture Education class presenting a ten-minute segment of their designed lesson to a room of students while the judges observed. The individuals participating were scored on their lesson plan, delivery of lesson as well as follow up questions. Oliva Alka placed 2nd in the district and will be moving on to state on March 6th at the University of Illinois!
Congratulations to the December Student of the Month, Colby Davis! Colby’s teacher said his attendance is excellent. For his efforts, he will receive a hat from Carquest Auto Parts, a car care gift bag from Super Clean Car Wash, a cup and t-shirt from Wabash General Hospital, a hat from Albion Equipment Company, $20 cash from Matthes Farms, beef sticks and a t-shirt from Country Home Processing, a $20 gift card from Wabash Valley Service Company, a $10 McDonald’s gift card, and $10 gift card from United Mutual Insurance Company. Great job, Colby!
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West Salem Grade School Spelling Bee Winners Congratulations to the West Salem Grade School Spelling Bee winners. Top picture WSGS 3rd5th Winners: (As pictured left to right); Bristol Duncan, 1st place, Hayden Sweepy-Walker, 2nd place, Mylee Carwile, 3rd place, Simon Greathouse, 4th place. WSGS Junior High Winners: (As pictured left to right):Kami Keener, 1st place , Rhys Barnes, 2nd place, Brianna Swartzbaugh, 3rd place, Danika Phillips, 4th place.
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Sponsored by Fairfield Save-a-lot where you can get low prices everyday! Tuscan Vegetable Soup - Gale Irvine Porter Ingredients 1 - 15.5 ounce can cannelloni or other small white beans, preferable low-sodium, drained and rinsed 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1 cup diced onion 1/2 cup diced carrot 1/2 cup diced celery 1 1/2 cup diced zucchini 1 tsp. minced garlic 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme or 1 tsp. dried 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage or 1/2 tsp. dried 1/2 tsp. salt, plus more to taste 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth 1 14.5 ounce can no-salt added diced tomatoes, with their juices 2 oz. baby spinach leaves (2 cups lightly packed), chopped 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cans whole sweet corn Fry bacon till crisp, drain off all but 3 Tbsp grease, add onion & celery. Cook until tender. Remove and blend in flour. Cook till bubbly. Remove from heat and add milk. Heat to bailing, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Stir in corn, potatoes, salt and pepper. Heat through. Can add cubed ham. Baked Potato Soup - Marty Jordan Ingredients 4 large potatoes 1 cup sour cream 2/3 cup butter 5 oz. cheddar cheese 2/3 cup flour 6 cup milk 2 cup crisp cooked bacon crumbled Salt & Pepper 4 green onions
Bake potatoes till tender, peel and chop. Melt butter in sauce pan. Slowly blend in flour w/wire whisk until 1. In a small bowl, mash half the beans, set aside blended. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. 2. Heat the oil in a large soup ot over medium-high Add salt and pepper over low heat. When milk mixheat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, zucchini, garlic, ture is very hot, whisk in potatoes, add onions and thyme, sage, salt and pepper; cook, stirring occasion- peels if desired. Whisk in sour cream and crumbled ally, until the vegetable are tender, about 5 minutes. bacon. Heat thoroughly. Add cheese a little at a time 3. Add the broth and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Add until it is all melted. Serve immediately. the mashed and whole beans and the spinach; cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3 minutes. Serve Taco Soup topped with the Parmesan cheese Ingredients 2 lb. hamburger 1 small onion, chopped Corn Chowder - Lori Wiseman 2 cans green chilies 1 tsp. salt & pepper Ingredients 1 1/2 cup water 1 pkg. taco seasoning 1/2 lb. diced bacon 1 med. onion chopped 1 can (14.5 oz.) hominy, drained 1/2 cup celery chopped 2 Tbsp. Flour 3 cans (14.5 oz.)stewed tomatoes 1/2 tsp. salt & pepper 2 cans creamed corn 1 pkg. ranch salad dressing mix 4 cups milk (can use half & half for 1/2 of the milk) 1 (16 oz.) can each, pinto beans, red beans, and 2 potatoes diced and boiled kidney beans, all drained & rinsed
Brown hamburger with onion and drain. Add all remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes. Serve with shredded cheese and tortilla chips Chicken Noodle Soup - Shirley Meritt Ingredients 3 or 4 chicken breast - cooked (save broth) 1 rib of celery 1 carrot - sliced thin 1 onion - chopped fine 4 quarts water 2 chicken bouillon cubes 1 Tbsp. season salt 1 - 16 pkg. Reame frozen noodles 4 cans cream of mushroom soup Whisk soup and broth together. Combine all ingredients in crockpot and cook on low. Vegetable Soup Ingredients 2 lb. stew meat 1 can green beans 1 pkg. onion soup mix 1 can small peas 1 onion, chopped 1 can corn 2 cans stewed tomatoes Pinch of sugar 6 lg. potatoes, peeled & diced 1 sm. head cabbage, chopped 4 lg. carrots, peeled & diced Salt & pepper to taste Cover stew meat with water in large stockpot. Add chopped onion and onion soup mix. Bring to a boil and cook until meat is tender. Add all remaining ingredients and cook until vegetables are tender.
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Open: Monday - Saturday 8 am to 8 pm•Sunday 8 am to 7 pm Page 15 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
January 2021 Edwards and Wabash County Senior Center Menus - Sponsored by The First National Bank 7)
11) EC - Cheeseburger on 12) EC -Pork Chop, Baked 13) Bun, Onion Rings, Pickles Onions, Cookies WC -Biscuits & Gravy Sausage, Hashbrown, Orange Juice
18)
EC - Hot Dog Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Fruit Salad WC - Chicken Strips, Potato Wedges, Corn, Dessert
25)
EC - Chicken Livers Potato, Sour Cream,Butter, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy Cauliflower w/Cheese Pickled Beets, Jello Sauce, Fruit WC - Polish Sausage, PepWC - Sweet & Sour Chicken, pers & Onions, Steak Fries, Rice, California Blend Veg, Applesauce Eggroll, Dessert
8) EC - Chili, Cheese Salad
WC - Swiss Steak w/tomato Gravy, Potatoes & Gravy, Peas, Brownie
WC -Pizza, Breadstick, Salad, Fruit
14)
EC - Meat Loaf Mashed Potatoes, Gravy Mixed Veggies, Pudding
WC - Turkey Manhattan, Potatoes & Gravy, Green Beans, Fruit Crisp
19) EC - Beef Manhattan 20) Mashed Potatoes, Beef Gravy, Corn, Cake WC - Ham & Beans, Cabbage, Potato, Cornbread, Jello
EC - Lasagna EC - Ham & Beans 21) Lettuce Salad, Garlic Bread Fried Potatoes, Tomato Pudding Salad, Corn Bread, Fruit WC - Fried Chicken, WC - Cheeseburger, Potatoes & Gravy, Mixed Let & Tom, Onion Rings, Veg., Roll, Dessert Dessert
EC - Shrimp 27)EC - Chicken & Noodles Baked Potato, Sour Mashed Potatoes, Green Cream Butter, Vegetable Beans, Cookies Salad, Jello WC -Meatballs & Gravy, WC - Breaded Tend. Sand., WC - Spaghetti, Carrots, Noodles, Brussels Sprouts, Let & Tom, Steak Fries, Salad, Garlic Bread, Cookie Fruit Pudding EC - Salisbury Steak Mashed Potatoes, Brown Gravy, Peas, Fruit
EC - Chicken Strips Potato Wedges, White Gravy, Green Beans, Cake
26)
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.
Sandwich, Crackers Pudding
15)
EC - Chef Salad: w/ Lettuce, Ham, Turkey, Onions, Tomatoes, Shredded Cheese, Chopped eggs, Crackers, Ice Cream
WC - Manager’s Special
22)
EC - Fish Hush puppies, Baked Beans, Slaw, Cobbler
WC - Potato Soup, Hot Turkey & Cheese Sand., Salad, Crackers, Dessert
28)EC - BBQ Pork on Bun 29) EC - Broccoli Cheese Corn Nuggets, Pickle Onion, Slaw, Brownies WC - Meatloaf, Baked Potato, Broccoli, Roll, Cake
Soup, Turkey & Cheese on Bun, Crackers, Fruit
WC - Manager’s Special
Oak Leaf Trucking, Inc. Grain Hauling
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 16 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Neil Fearn 618-838-3852
Mike Harris 618-839-0526
Albion, IL
Young Authors Nights Like These By: Ava Abell Out late we stay On our bikes The whole way Nights like these The sun will not go down ‘til after nine But we stay out Nights like these Laugh and talk with family Making memories Happy are we Nights like these My favorite people in the world Sitting right beside me We eat Oreos Nights like these These nights I’ll never forget They are dear They are as good as they can get Nights like these About the Author: Ava Abell is 11 years old and the daughter of Charlie and Meghan Abell. She lives in Mount Carmel. Ava is in Sixth Grade at Saint Mary’s School, and runs cross country, is a cheerleader, and plays volleyball. She enjoys drawing, reading, and writing poems and stories. Ava has two younger sisters, Clara (9), and Ella (4), along with a cat named Gertie, and a dog named Zeke. She would like to become an architect someday.
If you have a story idea or picture to share... contact Laurie Snidle at hometownvoice2019@ gmail.com
Emma Wiseman Voice of Democracy Essay It is hard to say what the founding fathers envisioned for our country, but I doubt that this is what they would have imagined. Nothing related to government or politics ever goes as planned, but that does not mean that the nation we have built is any less wonderful. No 244 year old vision for a modern nation can be perfect or accurate, and as a nation we have evolved very quickly both socially and culturally. We as a nation have chosen to strive toward some of the founders ideals, but we have also dismissed those which will not make us strong. In his retiring address, President George Washington emphasized the importance of a country unified in its efforts. Although this is nearly impossible to maintain today because of the size and diversity of our great nation, it is still an ideal that we should strive toward. A country divided can not move forward for the common good, and it is because of this that we have failed in the way that every nation ultimately will. Washington did however point out that our government is “the offspring of our choice”. We the people chose to create this system in all of its beautifully flawed glory. This is one of the most sure ways that we have stayed true to the founders’ vision. We still elect the people who run our country, and we still have the power to create change, either through our elected officials, or through other methods. We have far more power than we realize, and much more than we utilize. One of the most common misconceptions among Americans is that we are powerless in the face of the system that we have built. However, there is no doubt that we have chosen, and still choose, the government we have created, and we have the power to remake it as we see fit. Our country would not be the same without the sacrifices of our veterans and the current members of our military. As they say, nothing is free, not even freedom and the price often falls onto our service men and women. Whether they enlisted or were drafted, serving is no easy task. Military families have also given up time with their loved ones, or lost ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. The selfless service and sacrifice of our veterans ensures that each American is important and protected. Our nation still relies on the American people for resources, manpower, and the consent of the governed to maintain our status as one of the most powerful countries in the world. We as a nation have not yet created a system that is beneficial to all, because that is impossible. No matter how you look at it, our country is flawed, but so is every other nation or empire to ever have been formed. It is not our government that makes America great, but Americans themselves. Every soldier that enlists out of pride and love for our country is proof that the founder’s vision lives on. They imagined a nation protected for and loved by its citizens, and I believe that many people still embody that love today. It is our sense of community that gives us strength and our love for our fellow man that has formed a nation where all can live peacefully. About the Author: Emma Wiseman is a junior at Edwards County High School, President of the Junior Class, President of the Edwards County FFA, President of the Edwards County Senior Federation, Vice President of the Ellery Panthers, Member of the Albion First United Methodist Church, Spanish Club, Science Club, and daughter of Eric and Michelle Wiseman of Albion.
Page 17 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Becoming Stronger in the Shutdown By Meghan Fearn The 2020 shutdown of schools, sports seasons, and gymnasiums left many sports lovers discouraged. This was not the case for 16-year-old Maddix Stuessel, son of Jeanie Stuessel of West Salem. While he was greatly disappointed to miss out on his favorite sports activities, especially baseball, Stuessel decided from the beginning to use this time to his advantage. The first thing he did was set goals. He was determined to come out of the shutdown stronger and faster than he began. To reach these goals, he looked to Dan Luebbehusen, his favorite coach and fitness guru, who also happens to be his mother’s boyfriend. Luebbehusen coached Stuessel and helped him to develop a fitness routine. This routine involved a variety of power cleans, stretching, sprinting, squats, weights, and several other exercises designed specifically for speed and power. Stuessel is dedicated and disciplined and spends 1 ½ - 2 hours four to five times per week working through a variety of routines. “Power cleans are my favorite.” says Stuessel. When asked the hardest part of his fitness journey, rewards. Since March, his vertical jump has increased Stuessel said, “Just the determination it takes and mak- from 24 inches to 28 inches. His power clean has ining myself do it.” This determination has shown great creased from 175 lbs. to 215 lbs. Bench presses increased from 150 lbs. to 190 lbs. He can now deadlift 300 lbs., an increase of 75 lbs. since March. The power snatch increased from 115 lbs. to 145 lbs. and he can now run a ten-yard dash in 1.53 seconds. It is safe to say that he has achieved his goal of finishing the shutdown stronger and faster than he began. Stuessel is looking forward to seeing these results on the baseball diamond in the future. He plays the position of pitcher and third base for Edwards County • FREE Food Bundles will be given away in High School under coach Kris Duncan. He is hopeful that his increased speed and strength will be an asset the church basement begining at 8 a.m. to the team. on January 9th and February 6th. While Stuessel has met his original goal of becoming stronger during the shutdown, he does not plan to • A FREE Community Meal will be served by stop there. He has already set new strength goals that he hopes to meet by his senior year, one is to reach a carry out only from 5 - 7 p.m. at the church 300 lb. power clean. He also has goals to maintain a on January 20th and February 17th. 3.3 average in school and hopes to eventually play professional baseball. It is encouraging to see such determination, goalsetting, and dedication in one so young, especially during the difficult times that 2020 has presented. When what he learned through this experience, he 805 North State Road, Grayville asked shared “Look to do what most people aren’t doing to get ahead.” He also encourages younger people to “FolCurrent service time - 10 am Morning Worship low and learn from people that are better than you and you will get better also.” Great advice from an inspiring Pastor Dennis Seidel young man.
Northside Missionary Baptist Church wants to Share God’s Love with Grayville
Northside Missionary Baptist Church
Youth Leader Amanda Johnson
Page 18 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
Wabash County Ag in the Classroom provides family Ag in a Bag The December family Ag in a Bags were tree themed. Family Ag in a Bags are put together to provide the students an agricultural lesson even if we can’t get into the classrooms. December’s Ag in a Bag included a special gift – The Tree Farmer by Chuck Leavell and Nicholas Cravotta. Along with the book, there was a lesson on the Gift of Trees. This lesson talked about all the gifts trees give us and has the children sorting the items into categories (wood, food, and cellulose). Another lesson provided, went along with the Giving Tree book by Shel Silverstein. This lesson was about gifts trees provide, as well as what kind of gift they would want to share. There was also a lesson - Every Tree for Itself which allows the children to simulate how trees compete for their essential needs and shows how varying amounts of light, water, and nutrients affect a tree’s growth. The last lesson included in the Family Ag in a Bags was a pinecone Christmas tree decoration kit. This kit included everything needed to decorate a pinecone to look like a Christmas tree. We hope that everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!
Jake and Kylan McIntire were so excited to stop by the Wabash County Farm Bureau office to pick up their December Ag in a Bag lessons
Above: Easton Garrett had fun with one of the activities. At right: Eli and Emmy Garrett painted pinecones and decorated them to resemble Christmas trees.
Page 19 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
January Birthdays Janice Brock - 11th Tammy Kelsey - 11th Melanie Knight - 11th Sherry Newman - 15th
Kena Justice - 17th Debra Correll - 18th Levi McDaniel - 19th Patti Michels - 19th
Seaton Snidle Turning 60 on January 14th
Kelly Murphy - 22nd Connie Jo Miller - 27th Jamie Murphy - 27th Diania Bridgeman - 30th
Happy Birthday
Shirley Meritt January 20th
Love, Laurie Love, Kadence and Nelson
David Jordan January 27th Love, Laurie
Wish someone Happy Birthday on the monthly birthday page in the Hometown Voice! 3 options: Name and birthday only - $5.00 Small ad - $25 (can include one photo) • Large ad - $50 (can include up to 3 photos) All options are due by the 20th of the prior month and must be paid for in advance. Contact Laurie Snidle at 618-919-1941; hometownvoice2019@gmail.com; or 1069 County Road 200 E Albion, IL 62806
The Hometown Voice is delivered to every household in Edwards and Wabash Counties.
Page 20 • Hometown Voice • January 2021
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1123 Chestnut St., Mt. Carmel | 618-263-4376 | wabashgeneral.com