March 2021 Hometown Voice

H METOWN VOICE

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March 2021

Henry, Rowdy and Wyatt Buchanan show off some of the produce they help raise on their family farm in Wabash County.

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A real financial partner Colton Speir is the new Agricultural Loan Officer at CNB Albion’s Main Office. Albion native, Colton Speir graduated from Edwards County High School in 2012 and then earned an Associate’s Degree from Wabash Valley College in 2014. Colton completed the undergraduate program at USI in the Spring of 2020.

“As I begin working as the Agricultural Loan Officer, I am looking forward to two things. The first is the opportunity to learn as much as I can from our experienced staff. I believe across all of our departments, CNB has an exemplary team.

The second is the opportunity to work with the community.

The area has been very good to me, and I hope to repay the favor and will work hard to be good for the area. I look forward to making myself available to our bank customers and helping them successfully grow their operations.”

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Colton Speir Agricultural Loan Officer at CNB Albion’s Main Office

Agriculture Roots Run Deep in Edwards County

By Meghan Fearn In Southern Illinois, the agricultural roots run deep. Generational farms are located all over the countryside.

At the heart of these farms are families. Families that have worked hard together to earn a living from the ground.

While it takes the work of these families to make it happen, these farms would not be possible without the support of local agricultural businesses. In this area farmers are blessed to have their own grain elevator, several seed salesmen, chemical suppliers, and several equipment dealerships. These businesses and dealerships have a symbiotic relationship with the local farmers. They work hand in hand to support each other and keep Southern Illinois Agriculture strong. In Edwards County, four different equipment dealerships serve the area farms. These dealerships also run on the hard work of families, many for several generations. It is unique for a small town to have so many great, local opportunities to pick up parts, have service and buy new and used equipment. The Hometown Voice celebrates Agriculture Month by featuring the hard work of these families and the employees of these equipment providers. Thank you for supporting and serving Southern Illinois farmers!

Herschel Johnson Implement, Inc. For almost seven decades, Herschel Johnson Implement, Inc. has been serving farmers in Edwards County. The dream and hard work of Herschel Johnson has been carried through three generations. Today, the business remains strong under the leadership of Herschel’s son and daughter-in-law, Leon and Mary Johnson and their daughters, Melissa and Malia. Together, they continue to build on the strong foundation established by Herschel.

It began in 1952 when Herschel was asked by his father-inlaw, Harry Wiseman, what his ideal job would be. “I want to sell farm equipment,” said Johnson. Wiseman helped his son-inlaw raise the money to purchase the Allis Chalmers dealership owned by the Smith Brothers, in Albion. This established Herschel Johnson Implement.

The business originally operated out of the building which is now Complete HVAC on East Elm Street in Albion. By 1953, it had moved to its current location at 652 Illinois Route 15. This location has seen many additions, remodels, new builds, and has even expanded across the highway. The extra space has been needed as the dealership has grown, as has the size of the equipment.

“I remember the first Gleaner combine dad ever sold,” Leon

Herschel and Doris Johnson shares. “It had to be picked up in Kansas City. They called for the measurements and then drove out in a two-ton truck. They loaded the combine and head into the back of that truck and drove it all the way home.”

As the size of equipment grew, it would eventually be delivered by railway. Today, it can often take two semis to deliver one combine. Leon also recalls a time when a 1963 D21 Allis tractor was being moved from branch to branch. He was 13 years old and remembers asking his dad when they would have it at their location. Herschel told him they would never have need for one that big.

Two years later, they sold that very tractor.

Equipment size is not the only change that the Johnson family has seen over the years. The business has gone from a card parts inventory system to a computerized parts inventory. They have also implemented such Leon and Mary Johnson, Malia Bryan and Melissa things as auto-steer and they offer equipment for precicontinued on page 4 Harrison

Page 1 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Buchanan Family protects soil for future generations To the Buchanan family, soil is not just a combination of minerals and sediment. The land is their livelihood and, quite literally, the root of their income. Soil conservation is not a new and revolutionary idea, but something they instinctively do. It comes naturally, because farming is not just about running a business, it is their family legacy. Caring for the soil assures that this land will be there and continually provide for the next generation.

While soil conservation has had different implementations over the years, it has always been at the forefront of their minds.

The land on which the farm is located has been worked by the Buchanan family for six generations. Located in Wabash County, the Buchanan farm is currently a partnership between fifth generation, Gary and Angie Buchanan, and sixth generation, Adam and Haleigh Buchanan. This father and son team is known for trying different implementations of soil conservation. Over the years they have used such things as no-tilling, filter strips, tiling, terracing, and cover crops.

Cover crops are a non-harvest crop, planted for the purpose of soil health. The cover crop helps to slow erosion, provide nutrients for the soil, retain moisture, smother weeds, and control pests and disease. The Buchanans planted their first cover crop in 2008. Since then, cover crops have become a regular part of their soil conservation program. They have planted cereal rye, annual rye, radish-

es, turnips, winter rape seed, and crimson clover. Cereal rye has been used mostly on cornstalks before bean rotation on highly erodible soil. They use annual rye in bean stubble before the corn rotation to protect the hill ground.

“We have seen good results with cover crops. It has helped pull nutrients from the soil. We have needed less fertilizer and it has helped with weed suppression,” says Adam. It has taken some trial and error. “I did take some teasing the year I planted into rye that was tractor hood high.” While he and Haleigh laughingly remember that year, it also came with success. Haleigh continues, “It was a really dry year. While no one thought the crop would come up, the rye actually helped keep moisture in the ground and we had great yields.” The Buchanans plant into their cover crops green in the spring, using no-till practices. Gary has been using no-till farming for many years and feels this is another way to practice soil conservation. They have also implemented practices like using liquid nitrogen. They are finding ways to utilize waste ground, river strips, old pastures and they are looking into timber-stand improvement.

“The soil is the base of what we have. We have to keep it healthy. We also want to bring value and utilize every bit of it,” says Adam. The Buchanans primarily grow corn, beans, and wheat as their production crops. However, Adam’s wife, Haleigh, shares his love for the soil and is an avid gardener. Over the years, she can be seen at the local farmer’s market with their sons selling produce she has grown at the farm. In 2020 she started a small roadside produce stand where she sold a variety of vegetables she had grown. Their three sons, Wyatt (8), Henry (7), and Rowdy (4) play an active part in the farm stand and even contribute by selling fishing worms.

The boys are the seventh generation to live in the house on the Buchanan farm. In a day where it is rare to see something successfully pass through that many generations, this farm is something special. When asked what the key is to keeping a family and a family farm together for that long, Adam and Haleigh shared this thought. “It’s about being a family and not a business.

During farming season, we stop every day at dinner and come together as a family. The boys bring their balls, toys, or squirt guns,

Page 2 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Buchanan Family protects soil for future generations - continued and we take time to play and connect.” Just as Adam experienced with his father as a child, his boys spend time with him working the farm. They watch the calves being born and help bale the hay.

They work and play in the garden and just live, breathe, and grow together. The relationships are always more important than the work. “We have our different opinions, but ultimately we do what is best for the land and each other,” Gary added. They listen and accept new ideas, try different practices, and work as a team for a common goal.

This rich, family heritage and deep appreciation of the land makes

farming more than a family business or an income. It gives purpose to each day’s work.

The conservation of the soil guarantees that this cycle can continue for many more generations.

Allendale School January Students of the Month

Allendale Elementary School is proud to announce the Students of the Month for January: Oliver Ritchie (Kindergarten), Sam Smith (1st Grade), Hunter Nelson (2nd Grade), Tommy Hughes (3rd Grade), Abigail Hipsher (4th Grade), Emma Ford (Jr. High), Tristan Bray (Jr. High).

Page 3 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Agriculture Roots Run Deep - continued from page 1 sion farming. “You are either going forward or backward, and we hope to continue moving forward,” says Melissa.

Working well together as a family has helped to navigate these changes well over the years. Each family member relies on the strengths of the other. They do their best to remain flexible and easy-going. The family agrees that the time working together has been their favorite thing about the business. They also enjoy working with the area farmers.

“Every customer is important. We give the same attention to someone purchasing a lawn mower as we do someone purchasing a combine,” Melissa says. They enjoy being able to offer equipment for all needs. They feature brands such as New Holland, Massey Ferguson, Kinze, Bush Hog, Gleaner, and Sunflower. Bush Hog has been a sideline for them since the beginning.

They also have a strong parts and service department equipped with a large inventory of parts.

Herschel Johnson Implement, Inc. is one of the few dealerships left to be single family-owned. Leon looks forward to a smooth succession to Melissa and Malia, just as he experienced with Herschel. His daughters have worked hard to learn the business and are proud to continue the legacy set forth by their father and grand-

father. When asked what the plans are for the future, they all agreed. “We plan to be here. We will continue to work for our customers and will be here just as long as we are needed.” For more information on Herschel Johnson Implement, go to www.hjohnsonimp.com.

Albion Equipment Company Albion Equipment Company began when Dale, Chip, and Leroy Moore joined with Gilbert, Don, and David Harms to purchase the local International Harvester dealership from Jake Raibley in 1973. The original store was located on Highway 15 next to Country Home Processing. At that time, Chip Moore was working at Wayne-White Electric. He left that job to run the day-to-day operations of the dealership. Two years later, in 1975, Chip and his wife, Wilma, bought the full share of the business. In 1978, they purchased property from Charles Waters and established a new location at 1067 IL Route 130, Albion. It is at this location that Albion Equipment has continued to offer CASE IH Equipment and full shop services for over 40 years.

Treating people well was always the motto for Chip Moore. For those who knew him, they could attest that he lived according to that motto. He passed this motto on to his son, Patrick. Today, Albion Equipment concontinued on page 7

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14 N. 4th Street, Albion•445-2306 Page 4 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Food: From Farm to Plate

By Jane Jones Edwards County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom Have you ever stopped to think about how many steps go into getting the food we eat? There is a lot more that takes place besides purchasing and preparing our food. What does it take to get food from the farm to your plate?

Albion Grade School first grade students used a paper plate to learn about some of the main steps that take place for them to eat the food they enjoy. The students labeled on their plate the eight main steps that take place. Then they drew a picture that related to each step of the “Food to Plate” process. It is amazing how much work goes into this process!

From a small seed comes great produce, but it does not happen without many steps taking place. The students illustrated the following eight steps on their plate.

1. A farm with a farmer.

2. The crop the farmer plants and harvests.

3. Transportation of the crop to a processing facility.

4. The processing facility or Factory.

5. Transportation of the crop to a food outlet location.

6. The Grocery store or market.

7. Consumer purchasing the groceries.

8. Food on the plate.

Next time you sit down to enjoy a nice meal, think about how many steps take place before you sit down to eat your food. This is one reason why there are nearly one million agriculture-related jobs in Illinois alone. Illinois is one of the top-ranking states in meat packing, soybean processing, diary manufacturing, corn processing, feed milling, and vegetable processing. Illinois’s fertile soil, favorable climate, availability of good transportation, and industry make it one of the top agricultural states in the nation.

“15¢ Breakfast” is Back!

Mark your calendars and plan on attending the 10th Annual “Farmer’s Share Breakfast.” The breakfast is being sponsored by the Edwards County Farm Bureau and the Edwards County FFA. It will be held on Saturday, March 20, 2020 from 6:30am until 9:30am at the Senior Center in Albion (Note the change in location from previous years). The breakfast will feature pancakes, eggs, sausage and drinks.

The cost of the breakfast will be $0.15 per person.

“14.6¢ is the amount farmers and ranchers receive for every food dollar consumers spend,” stated Rebecca Perry, manager of the Edwards County Farm Bureau.

“The purpose of this breakfast is to show consumers how much the farmer actually receives out of every dollar they spend on food,” stated Perry. The amount of money a

Pictured above: Mrs. Gerlach’s 1st grade class show their Ag in the Classroom projects displaying the eight main steps it takes to get food from farm to plate.

Above left: Cate Bunting and at right: Easton Vallette, first grade students at Albion Grade School display the plate they created. farmer receives from the food dollar has gone down five cents from 2016.

The breakfast is open to the public! Mark your calendars and bring your family and friends out for a great (and cheap) breakfast! Carry-outs will be available.

Page 5 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Soil Health: What does that mean?

By Mike Wilson American Society of Agronomy, Certified Crop Advisor 4R NMS/ RMS/ PASp. Wabash Valley Service Company Anyone that pays any attention to Agriculture over the last several years has heard the buzz words “ Soil Health”.

Just what does that mean? The soil doesn’t have a pulse, it can’t suffer from high cholesterol, what exactly is soil health? Well, it is a whole lot more complicated than earth worms and organic matter.

First, lets talk about the soil, my favorite definition of soil is: The dynamic covering of the Earths crust that sustains all life on the planet. That is a pretty bold statement, soil is basically life. It’s where we grow our food, where we live, filters our water, supports the plants that filters our air, the list is endless. So, what constitutes a “healthy soil” we know that soil needs certain nutrient levels for different crops. The main nutrients we are concerned about are; nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium, sulfur, magnesium, the primary and secondary macro nutrients. Then we have the micronutrients, we need small amounts but they are just as important as the macros. These are Boron, Zinc, copper, molybdenum, manganese, iron and aluminum. We have soil tested for and applied these nutrients for decades.

Today we are looking at ways to make these nutrients work together to reduce the application of the two that give us the most trouble environmentally. Those are nitrogen and phosphorus. The hypoxic zone in the Gulf of Mexico and algae blooms in our lakes rivers and streams demonstrate the need for managing those. Without going into a soil science and chemistry lesson we need to do more with less. That’s where soil conservation and soil health come in. A healthy

2019 Cover Crop Field Day

soil is one that has a beneficial balance of soil nutrients, soil microbes, organic material, organic matter and stays where it needs to be, in the fields. There are two primary issues that affect soil health; soil erosion and nutrient imbalance. For years if we wanted to improve corn yield, we just added more N, P&K. This worked pretty well for years but today we have very high soil residual P levels and when soil erodes after a heavy rain then we have P in the streams and rivers causing environmental issues. This is also bad for farmers that paid for the fertilizer and now it is in the water causing problems downstream and not helping their crop.

Soil conservation was born from the need to protect our soils. This movement started nearly 100 years ago at the beginning of the Dust Bowl and has evolved into the soil conservation work of today. Innovations like No-till crop systems, that protect the soil from erosion while continuing to produce a crop. Soil nutrient management, a means using the 4R’s (Right product, Right rate, Right time, Right place) to make sure we only apply nutrients the crop needs when it needs it the most. This reduces waste and ensures the nutrients leave the field as grain the farmer can sell instead of running off as muddy water. Most critical is soil erosion control. The soil takes time to create an environment for soil microbes and animals like earth worms and others.

If it is constantly eroding then those beneficial creatures and organic matter erodes and leaves the field. Soil is a complex system that functions best when it is absorbing moisture and carbon and using those as well as nutrients to produce a crop. Soil microbes and organic matter are critical to this process.

Things have and continue to change in soil health and soil biology. As we move further into the 21st century and we continue to see or world population grow we need to protect our natural resources. To be able to feed this increase number of mouths without exhausting our most important asset, the land.

Page 6 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Agriculture Roots Run Deep - continued from page 4 tinues to keep people as the most important part of their business. Patrick was raised working in the store with his dad. He spent many hours sweeping the shop, cleaning the bathrooms, and taking out the trash. He moved on to washing equipment and helping in setup. After high school, he attended college at Eastern Illinois University where he earned a degree in finance. On December 23, 1994, Patrick returned to the business and started working full time with his father. Working with his father was one of his favorite things about being in this business. Chip passed away in 2019. Patrick now runs the day-to-day operations of Albion Equipment and shares ownership with his mother, Wilma. However, the lessons and guidance of his father will always carry through in the way Albion Equipment operates.

While CASE IH is the main line carried, Albion Equipment also deals sidelines such as Great Plains, Land Pride, Woods Equipment, J&M Manufacturing, and Mac-Don Heads. The shop is always bustling with equipment upgrades, set-up, repairs, and maintenance. The building received a complete remodel in 2020, with upgraded offices, sales floor, etc. The new modern look reflects the

Chandler and Partick Moore many changes in today’s agriculture.

Precision farming, technology, guidance systems, and the Internet have pushed the business to keep moving with the times. Albion Equipment has worked diligently to stay on top of these changes to meet the needs of area farmers.

Agriculture has changed in many other ways too. In the early days, Patrick recalls selling new combines for around $140,000. Today, a new combine can range upwards to $500,000. The Internet has allowed Albion Equipment to continued on page 8

Page 7 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Agriculture Roots Run Deep - continued from page 7

Albion Equipment founder Chip Moore, deceased expand its sales base. It is now not uncommon to sell equipment to farmers in South Dakota, Iowa, or Minnesota.

One of the things Patrick has enjoyed the most about the agriculture business is the friendships he has developed. “Many of my customers have become my closest friends.” Patrick shared, “When dad got sick, they were there. I received so many calls and texts checking in. I really appreciated that. We have great customers and employees.”

Oak Leaf Trucking, Inc.

The employee record is a testament to their motto of treating people well. Many of their employees have been with them for decades. Sharalee Aaron has been the secretary for over 35 years. Gene Brock is a second-generation employee. His father, Ivan Brock, was one of the original employees for Chip.

When asked about future plans for Albion Equipment, Patrick says, “Many farmers don’t have the benefit of having local dealerships. Many dealerships are no longer under single ownership. It makes us unique. The pressure is there to get bigger and open more stores, but I want to be able to keep the relationships we have built. Farmers count on us and we will continue the way we treat people and do business.” Find out more information at www.albionequipment.com.

Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners, Inc. For many Edwards County residents, the sight of a John Deere tractor brings up a memory of Bob Mason. As the owner of McLean Implement, Mason spent over 50 years providing area farmers with the John Deere equipment needed to work their farms.

Bob Mason and Murray McLean started McLean Implement in 1964. Mason purchased the full share just two years after opening, but decided to keep the McLean name. The physical location of the business has remained at 793 Illinois Route 130. However, it has grown from a small, leased oilfield office to multiple buildings used for parts, service, setup, continued on page 9

Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners, Owners and Corporate Management Team

Grain Hauling Neil Fearn 618-838-3852

Mike Harris 618-839-0526

Albion, IL

Page 8 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Hometown Voice

Publisher, Laurie Snidle 1069 County Road 200 E Albion, IL 62863

618-919-1941

Agriculture Roots Run Deep - continued from page 8 offices, and sales.

Mason built McLean Implement into a business that became well-known in most of the surrounding towns. This allowed him to open stores in Wayne City and Flora in the late 1990’s.

Mason passed away in 2015, having left a positive impact on the local agriculture community.

His son-in-law and daughter, Mike and Melinda Clark were working for the business at that time.

They continued to build on what Mason had started and even opened new stores. Before long, McLean Implement included stores in five different locations. It was a growing business, but the Clarks knew it was not their passion. In 2017, their friend, Tom Nobbe, approached them about purchasing McLean Implement. Knowing that their family’s business was in good hands, they decided to sell.

The Nobbe family has been selling farm implements since 1907. What began with threshing machines and horse-drawn buggies, moved into the first automobiles and early John Deere tractors. Over a century later, equipment sales are still the family business. Tom and Jane Nobbe and their two sons, Jared and Brad, want to keep the family business growing and strong. After conferring with their business partner, George Obernagel they decided that purchasing McLean Implement was the next step in this growth. In 2017, Mclean Implement became Wm. Nobbe and Company, Inc. This expansion for the Nobbe family allowed for greater diversification of sales among large agriculture, small agriculture, hobby farms, and light construction. Expanding the number of stores brought many benefits to the area farmers. Having more locations gives the business a larger inventory of new and used equipment. It also increases the availability of the parts needed for the service department.

The desire to continue this service keeps the continued on page 10

At left: l-r Jared, Brad, and Tom Nobbe, and past owner Brian Nobbe who retired 7 years ago.

Page 9 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Agriculture Roots Run Deep - continued from page 9 Nobbe Family Generations.

From left Brad Nobbe, Ed Nobbe, deceased, Tom Nobbe, Brian Nobbe, Bob Nobbe, deceased, Aiden and Jared Nobbe.

Nobbe family motivated to expand. When looking for a partner in this expansion, they knew Sydenstricker Implement Company was a perfect match. Sydenstricker Implement Company, a family-owned John Deere dealership, operated 13 stores in Missouri. The business is a long-time partnership between the Sydenstrickers and the Gabriels. This includes Galen and Greg Gabriel and Eddie, Connie, LeeAnn and Kim Sydenstricker. “The Sydenstricker family holds to the same family values that we do and has the same vision of growth,” says Tom Nobbe. In January of 2020, combining

Carissa and Jarod Weaver

these visions, Wm. Nobbe and Company merged with Sydentricker Implement Company and became Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners, Incorporated. The merger gives a combined 26 stores to the corporation and they plan to grow from here.

Future plans for SNP include adding and training more technicians, building on parts inventory, and increasing their used equipment offering. “We want to do more than sell equipment, we want to provide value,” says Nobbe. “We will continue to work for the customer, making sure they receive the maximum benefits we can offer.” For more information on Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners, Incorporated and their Albion store, check out their website at www.snpartners.com.

JW Equipment JW Equipment in Albion, IL is a culmination of two passions for local resident, Jarod Weaver: farming and John Deere Equipment. Weaver, like many area farmers, wanted to establish a business that would work hand-in-hand with his love of farming. As a former sales manager for Emerick Brothers in Norris City, Weaver knew farm equipment. He also knew he could combine his strength in sales with his knowledge of equipment to form a business. So, he and his wife, Carissa, started an independent, used, equipment dealership now known as JW Equipment.

The business began in August of 2007 at their farm location in Wayne County, IL. The Weavers had living quarters and an office in their farm shop.

Here, they sold their first 8400 tractor in August of 2007 to a farm in Kentucky. Over the next few years, they would continue to buy and sell used equipment and establish their business with a reputation of good service, good deals, and good quality.

This continued growth allowed them to expand.

Page 10 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

continued on page 15

Edwards County Soil & Water new employees Edwards County Soil and Water Conservation District is excited to have added Dale Woods and David Kleinschmidt to our staff.

We received a Grant from the Illinois Department of Agriculture/Natural Resource Conservation Services that has allowed us to hire 2 Survey Technicians to service Edwards and Wayne County SWCD for 3 yrs.

They have been helping to get the county back on a timely schedule of assistance with our survey projects. They are currently working in the Fairfield office.

We have completed 7 projects in the county this past year. We are well on our way to complete several wascob/terrace projects for our county landowners in 2021. We were also able to help 2 producers in the County with a Cover Crop Incentive Program held by the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

We continue to emphasize the importance of Cover Crops and the benefits it has not only on the Environment but the Natural enhancement of the Soil. The State continues

ECSWCD new Surveying Technicians from left Dale Woods, Matthew Lynch-Chairman and David Kleinschmidt. to offer incentive programs for Cover Crops. During the month of February, our office takes applications for Edwards County landowners who are in need of developing a best management practice to help with soil erosion through Partner for Conservation (PFC) cost-share. For more information about any of our programs or need assistance in developing a plan please call 618-445-3615 and leave a message or contact one of the directors.

Picture of Board is from the left.

Matthew Lynch-Chairman, Daniel Shilling-Treasurer, Judd Longbons-Director, John Cowling-Vice Chairman and front row is Michelle Piller-Administrative Coordinator.

To advertise call Laurie Snidle at 618-919-1941 or email: hometownvoice2019@gmail.com

Stop by Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday 8 am to 12 pm and check out the new fresh cut meat case and frozen food we have available. You’ll never know what you will find!

Les Arburn Sales consultant

812-582-9960 Lesar2625@yahoo.com/Lesarburn.scentsy.us

Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm • Saturday 8 am to 12 pm

Page 11 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Grief Support Ministry to be offered at General Baptist Church in Mt. Carmel GriefShare, a biblical, Christ-centered grief support group ministry, is being offered at General Baptist Church in Mt. Carmel on Mondays at 6:30 pm from March 1-May 24th, 2021. Churches, family, and friends often encircle the griever in the immediate days surrounding the death of a loved one. GriefShare is designed to help in the long months after the funeral, when those around the griever return to “normal” lives. Navigating the grief journey isn’t easy, but GriefShare helps people as they travel the road from mourning to experiencing joy again.

The ministry provides 13 weeks of meetings where the GriefShare group will watch a video seminar featuring top experts on grief and recovery subjects. These videos are produced in an interesting television magazine format featuring expert interviews, real-life case studies, dramatic reenactments, and on-location video.

The 13 videos are “self-contained” so a person can start and stop at any time. It is recommended that each participant commit to three weeks of GriefShare to be able to evaluate it fully. Sessions may be difficult at first, but with the information, encouragement and support, the grief process does get easier. The 13 session topics are: 1) Is This Normal? 2) Challenges of Grief 3) The Journey of Grief – Part One 4) The Journey of Grief – Part Two 5) Grief and Your Relationships 6) Why? 7) Guilt and Anger 8) Complicating Factors 9) Stuck 10) Lessons of Grief – Part One 11) Lessons of Grief – Part Two 12) Heaven 13)What Do I Live for Now?

The support group sessions include a time to talk about the GriefShare videos and opportunities for participants to share their challenges and victories (if they so choose). Group members receive a workbook to help them sort their thoughts and emotions and help them discover what God says about their situation. The workbook contains a daily Bible study, weekly journal, a gospel presentation, and tear-out Scripture cards. Workbooks are $15, but scholarships are available if there is a financial need. For more information, visit the GriefShare website: www.griefshare.org.

The GriefShare group is led by Belinda Potts-Miles, Chester Miles, Mary Jo Grubb Barnard and Debra Schwartz. Each of the leaders has experiences the loss of a spouse. Some have experienced multiple losses of family members. Several members of the community have already participated in GriefShare at LPCC, and speak highly of the program.

This year we will also be offering a one day (2 hour) seminar called “Surviving the Holidays” on Saturday, November 7th at 9:00 am at the General Baptist Church in Mt. Carmel. Even if you’re unable to attend GriefShare, this one morning event will help prepare you to face the holidays without your loved one.

If you have experience the loss of a loved one, consider signing up for GriefShare or Surviving the Holidays. Call the General Baptist Church office at (618) 263-3477 or Belinda Potts-Miles at 618-240-1842, or e-mail your desire to register at belindapottsmiles@yahoo.com.

Churches

Page 12 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

If you have a special event planned or just want to let 9,300 household know when your services are contact me at hometownvoice2019@gmail. com.

Albion Cemetery Arch in need of repair

By Josh Gill We all know what it is like to grow up in a small town. Everyone knows everybody. You talk to your neighbors every day. Small towns are where we have chosen to live, where we’ve built our homes, made our livings, and where we’ve buried our lost loved ones.

Albion was founded in 1818, over 200 years ago.

That’s a lot of lives between then and now. A lot of blood, sweat, and tears that went into building what is now our community. Every town has their own places, monuments, landmarks and such that give the town character. Albion Cemetery was once such a place. A masterpiece of ironwork with the beautiful fence surrounding it, and the arch over the entrance. Though sadly, after years of neglect it has fallen into disrepair.

The once beautiful arch is now leaning and hanging to its foundation by a thread.

Local woman Susan Markman has taken the fight to City Council to have the Albion Cemetery arch repaired to its former glory. “My intent when I went to the City Council meeting was not to cause trouble, but to open the eyes of the Council to the deterioration of the historic, once beautiful, Albion Cemetery Arch.” Susan has opened an account at Citizens National Bank in Albion entitled “Cemetery Arch Fund”, in order to take donations for the restoration. Within one week of opening the account she has received over one thousand dollars. Susan has also begun organizing a fundraiser, which will take place on April 10th at the Pagoda in Albion, where Leroy Moore will be providing pork-burgers and there will also be baked goods.

Seth Fearn, owner of Fearn Blasting and Painting service, has placed a bid with the city to undertake the restoration project. “There are many people in Edwards County who have ancestors buried there and I hope they will offer to help me with this fundraiser and sup-

port the Council with taking on such a large project.”

Stated Susan. “It’s important to the history of our town and to the families that live here and want to see it taken care of.” Susan went on to explain that any and all funds that are left over after the arch is repaired will be given to the city to help further the restoration of the Albion Cemetery.

“I believe that this is a very important project that needs to be done. If we don’t do it, I’m afraid that future generations just won’t care enough to do so.” Susan stated sadly. It took thousands of lives for us to be here. Our heritage, our past, our ancestors are important. If you agree, then take some time out of your day on April 10th, come over to the Pagoda and have a pork-burger. Help make our ancestors proud.

Your Easter Headquarters

• Decorations • Easter Cards for only .49 • Bibles and Inspirational T-Shirts • Melissa and Doug Toys • Spring Flowers

Uniquely Rustique 705 W. Main, Fairfield•842-3544 M-F 9-5 • Sat. 9-3 Page 13 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Sponsored by Fairfield Save-a-lot where you can get low prices everyday!

Instant Pot Balsamic Pork Tenderloin Trisha Elliott Abrams Ingredients 1-2 pork tenderloins 2 Tbps. Olive Oil Salt & Pepper to taste 1 teas. garlic powder 2 teas. Italian Seasoning 4 Tbps. soy sauce 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup water 2 Tbps. corn starch plus 4 Tbps. cold water Instructions: Set pressure cooker to saute. Rub tenderloins all over with oil. Season generously on all sides with salt and pepper to taste, then italian seasoning. Use tongs to place tenderloins in the pot, turning over every 1-2 minutes on all sides. Whick together soy sauce, brown surag, balsamic vinegar, and water and add to the pot. Put the lid on in the locked position with the steam valve closed. Set to pressure cook or manual for 15 minutes. When cook time is up, allow to naturan release for 5 minutes, then turn the steam valve to the venting position and remove lod once float valve drops down. Use tongs to transfer pork loin to cutting board and set aside. Switch pressure cooker to soup setting. Once boiling stir corn starch into the 4 tbsp. water until dissolved, then pour into intant pot and stir until thickened to a glaze. Slice tenderloins, then serve with balsamic glaze on top.

Extra glaze can be stored in a jar in the fridge up to 2 weeks. One large or two small-medium pork tenderloins (1 - 1 1/2 pounds each) work perfectly.

4 c. low-sodium chicken broth 1 cup ples 2 tbsp. milk, divided 2 tbsp. cornstarch 1/2 c. heavy cream Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper Shredded cheddar, Chopped cooked bacon, and freshly chopped chives for serving Instructions: Set instant pot to saute funtion and melt butter. Add onion and cook until soft, 5 minutes, then add garlic and thyme and cook until fragrant, 1 minute more. Add potatoes and broth and place lid on instant pot. Set to pressure cook on high and set time for 8 minutes. Once finished, turn valve to quick release. In a small bowl whisk together 2 tbsp. milk and cornstarch to make a slurry. Remove lid and set to saute function again. Pour in slurry, remaining 1 cup milk, and heavy cream and let boil about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cheddar, bacon and chives before serving.

bine. Stir in corn, black beans, salsa and green chiles.

Without stirring, add rice. Select manual setting; adjust pressure to high, and set time for 10 minutes.

When finished cooking, quick-release pressure according to manufacturer’s directions. Stir in cheese until melted, about 1 minute.

Instant Pot Meatloaf and Potatoes Ingredients 1 1/2# baby potatoes 1/2 onion chopped 2 cloves garlic chopped 2/3 cup chicken broth Meatloaf - 3/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs 1/2 onion finely diced 1 tbps. butter 2 pounds lean ground beef 1/3 cup milk 1 tbps. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teas. garlic powder 1/2 teas. salt 1/4 teas. pepper 2 eggs Topping 2 tbps. ketchup 2 Tbps. chili sauce Instructions: Place the baby potatoes, chopped Instant Pot 20 Minute Chicken Burrito Bowls onion, garlic, and broth in the bottom of a 6QT Jennifer Irvine Meritt Instant-Pot. Cook diced onion (for the meatloaf) Ingredients in butter until tender, about 5 minutes. Cool com1# boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1” chunks pletely. Combine all meatloaf ingredients in a bowl 1 (1.25-ounce) package taco seasoning and mix well. Form into a loaf and place on a piece 1 cup low sodium chicken broth of foil. Fold the edges of the foil to make a “pan” for 1 (15-ounce) can corn kernels, drained the meatloaf. Place the meatloaf on the trivet and 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed add to the Instant Pot. Select manual and cook on 1 cup salsa, homemade or store-bought high pressure 28 minutes. Allow to naturally release 1 (4.5-ounce) can chopped green chiles for 10 minutes. Remove any remaining pressure.

1 cup long-grain rice Instant Pot Potato Soup - Courtney Banks Open the lid and ensure the meatloaf has reached 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese Ingredients 165°F. Remove meatloaf to a cutting board. Com2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves 2 tbsp. butter 1 large onion bine topping ingredients and brush over meatloaf.

2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves Instructions: Add chicken, taco seasoning and chick- (Optional: Place under the broiler 3-4 minutes) Rest en broth to a 6-qt Instant Pot® and gently toss to com- 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with potatoes.

6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced

GREAT FOOD! GREAT PRICES! EVERYDAY! 709 W. Main, Fairfield • 618-842-5040

Open: Monday - Saturday 8 am to 8 pm•Sunday 8 am to 7 pm Page 14 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Agriculture Roots Run Deep - continued from page 10 JW Equipment

In 2014-2015, they purchased property, built a shop, and moved to their current location at 551 Highway Illinois Route 130 just South of Albion. This location gave them more exposure and the access for trucks that they needed to ship equipment. This is a necessity for the business, as most of their sales are not local and require shipping all over the country. Some equipment is even shipped internationally. Currently, they are working to ship three combines to a returning customer out of China.

Online services, such as Tractor House and Auction Time, have allowed the business to service a broader customer base. Dealerships recognize the value of this customer base and the established network that JW Equipment has. This is how the Weavers obtain

most of their equipment. The dealerships contact them to help move some of the used equipment in their inventory.

In 2018, JW Equipment move into consignment auctions. These auctions are facilitated by local auction service, Rothrock Auctions, and streamed via AuctionTime. The auctions can move around 200 pieces of equipment in just one day. Many farmers utilize this auction to sell some of their equipment. It allows them to access that larger demographic and not have to worry about the shipping, money, and paperwork aspect of a non-local sale.

Helping Jarod and Carissa in the business are one part-time and five full-time employees. Finding the right people and putting them in the right area of work has been one of the biggest challenges for the business, but it has also been the biggest blessing. “We have the best emSet the thermostat where you want for a more comfortable home. ployees,” says Jarod. “Helping them find the right place in the business and watching them work where they have the most strength has been great.” The employees on qualified models & are spread out over sales, preparing equipinstallation ment for sales, shipment, delivery, and working with the internet services, etc. A lot goes into the consignment auctions and the day-to-day operation of the business.

As the business continues to grow, Classic Edge 360, 560 and 760 HDX the Weavers plan to continue to offer the are U.S. EPA Certified consignment auctions and keep offering quality, used equipment. They also hope • Highest Efficiency Certified by EPA** to offer a sideline of new equipment in the • Peace of Mind - Keep the fire outside and eliminate the dangers associated with indoor wood heating. future. They look forward to meeting more • Save Money - Wood is a renewable, inexpensive farmers and developing more customer reand often free energy source. lationships. “I really enjoy getting to know • Durability - Long-lasting, stainless steel firebox. farmers. I love to visit their farms and see Neikirk Alternative Heating the different operations. I have learned a Dealership Name 8527 N 1250 Blvd. City, , Mt. Carmel, lot through other farmers.”

Outdoor Wood Furnace Address, State IL JW Equipment will be holding their 618-262-5030 Phone / Website VIDEO: How It Works www.neikirkalternativeheating.com fourth online consignment auction on CentralBoiler.com > *US Internal Revenue Code Sec. 25(D) effective Jan. 1, 2021, for heating a residence. For more Explore > How it Works March 6. Find out more information by details visit CentralBoiler.com. Information provided here as a convenience and may not be relied upon as substitute for professional tax advice. Consult a tax professional with any questions.

CentralBoiler.com visiting www.jwequipment.net or by calling **EPA cord wood Hydronic Heater list 1-6-2021 21-0101 618-803-7025.

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Page©2021 15 •Central Hometown Voice • March 2021 Boiler – Ad Number 21-0101

This ad size is 5” x 5.2”

Albion Grade School recently celebrated 100 days of school. Above top: The 1st grade classes show off the hats they made; above left: 1st grade teachers and their 100 day shirts; Above right: Ty Smith writes his spelling words 100 times.

THE RIGHT INTERNET SOLUTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS Wabash has customized Internet solutions for businesses of all sizes. Our Internet is distributed using light wave technology through a fiber-optic cable to deliver superior data, voice, and video capabilities.

Page 16 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

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Allendale Spelling Bee

Above: Spelling Bee Coordinator, Mrs. Elizabeth Perry and Spelling Bee Champion Hallie Courter correctly. Hallie received a $25 Life Saver CD donated Spelling Bee Coordinator, Mrs. Elizabeth Perry and by The First National Bank of Allendale and she will con2nd Place Spelling Bee winner, Isaiah Courter tinue to the regional spelling bee. The runner-up, Isaiah On Wednesday, January 27th Allendale School host- Courter, received a $10 cash prize donated by The Aled their annual spelling bee. Due to covid restrictions, lendale School Student Council. students first competed in classroom spelling bees, then the top two students from each class continued to the school spelling bee. After fifteen rounds, Hallie Courter was declared the winner by spelling the word “followed”

Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Available

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210 East Elm Albion 618-445-3329

Applications are now available for nurse practitioner scholarships through the Illinois Farm Bureau® Rural Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Program. There will be 15 scholarships, worth $4,000 each, granted this year.

The scholarship program, now in its twenty ninth year, helps encourage and develop the pool of rural health practitioners to help meet primary health care needs in rural Illinois. Students who receive scholarships agree to practice for two years in an approved rural area in Illinois.

To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be Illinois residents and be a Registered Nurse accepted or enrolled in an accredited Nurse Practitioner Program. Funding is provided by the Rural Illinois Medical Student Assistance Program (RIMSAP).

Applications are available at county Farm Bureaus® throughout the state, on the Rural Illinois Medical Student Assistance Program website at RIMSAP.com, or by writing Donna Gallivan, Program Manager, Illinois Farm Bureau, PO Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 617022901. Applications are due May 1.

For additional information, contact Donna Gallivan at 309-557-2350, or via e-mail at dgallivan@ilfb.org.

Page 17 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

WVC Radio/TV students nominated for two national awards WVC Sports Extra team: Drew Pountain, Ian Klingler, Branton Beard, Kyler Gammon and Eli Grimes.

Mount Carmel, Ill.— Wabash Valley College is honored to announce that students from the Radio/TV and Digital Media department have received two national award nominations from the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System.

Last year, the Radio/TV department’s TV station, News Channel 15, was named the nation’s “Best Community College TV Station” by the IBS. This year, five Radio/TV students have been nominated for the IBS’ “Best Video Sports Program,” and one of them was nominated for “Best Commercial.” The announcement came via News Channel 15’s Facebook page.

“Congrats to our Drew Pountain, a top-5 nominee in the category of Best Commercial, and to Ian Klingler, Drew Pountain, Branton Beard, Eli Grimes and Kyler Gammon, as our local sports show, Sports Extra, is a top-6 nominee for Best Video Sports Program.”

Broadcasting Director Kyle Peach wrote on social media, “I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am of my students and program! Recognitions like this don’t come around that often! Now let’s go turn those nominations into awards!”

Ian Klingler, a sophomore majoring in Sports Marketing and Media, said, “This nomination proves that the hard work that you put into a show or any work that you do can

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Applicants can: • Email resume to info@wlcfirm.com • Visit www.wlcfirm.com • Call 618.923.1505 to set up an interview.

Page 18 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

WVC Radio/TV students nominated for two national awards pay off in the long run.”

The other WVC nominees agreed with Klingler. Even with most sports being canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19, Klingler noted that the Sports Extra team was still able to provide consistent content to their audience.

Kyler Gammon, a freshman Sports Marketing and Media major, said that putting on Sports Extra took a lot of hard work, scheduling and planning.

“Putting on a show isn’t easy,” said Gammon. “You have to make sure everyone is on the same page so everyone’s ideas are expressed, and with Sports Extra, we did a tremendous job at that.”

Freshman Radio/TV and Digital Media major Eli Grimes agreed, adding, “We also find ways to connect with our audience and make it feel as though we’re just a group of guys who sat down to talk about sports with you. When you add that element, it becomes so much more enjoyable to watch.”

In an email, Peach explained that Sports Extra is entirely student driven and has a local focus.

“It is unique in that there aren’t any other weekly shows on TV in our region focusing entirely on southeastern Illinois sports. It’s also unique in that our students are 100% responsible for creating the content for the show,” said Peach. “While all of the students involved with Sports Extra have played a role in the show receiving this recognition, special recognition goes to Ian Klin-

gler— who serves as the main producer of the show.

Under his leadership, the show has continued to grow and improve.”

Sophomore Radio/TV Broadcasting major Drew Pountain agreed with Peach.

“The work that Ian does to prepare Sports Extra is unmatched! He goes into detail and puts together our stories that we talk about. He is the man!”

However, Peach had no less praise for Pountain, whose commercial was nominated for the IBS’ “Best Commercial.”

“It has been a pleasant surprise to see Drew’s growth as an editor. He has a passion for sports broadcasting, but I think he’s also found a love for editing – something I’m not sure he expected,” said Peach. “This spot showcases his ability to not only have a vision for what he wants a project to be, but it also shows he has developed the skills to turn that vision into reality. I couldn’t be prouder of him” Pountain is justifiably proud of, and simultaneously humbled by, his nomination.

“For me personally, I worked extremely hard on this commercial, all summer long. I am just extremely humbled to be a part of this group, and I hope I can bring home the gold not only for me, but also for our program,” said Pountain.

Peach stated that having students nominated for prestigious national awards like this is rewarding for him, both as an educator and as a media professional.

“It speaks to the credibility of the education we provide our students. It also gives our program national recognition. In essence, it says the Radio/TV program at Wabash Valley College is elite, among the nation’s best,” he said.

“It is also very rewarding for me personally. It suggests that we are doing things the right way… This group looks at projects they’re assigned not just as class assignments but as potential demo reel content. We wouldn’t be able to compete for national awards if they didn’t care about the quality of their work.”

What started as a simple idea of students coming together to produce a show has turned into a potentially award-winning reality for this group. WVC wishes Ian Klingler, Drew Pountain, Branton Beard, Eli Grimes and Kyler Gammon the best of luck in their endeavors!

Award winners will be named during the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System’s virtual conference on March 2 – 6.

Page 19 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

March 2021 Edwards and Wabash County Senior Center Menus - Sponsored by The First National Bank

1)

EC - Salisbury Steak 2) EC -Salmon Patties Mashed Potatoes, Brown Cooked Cabbage, Macaroni Gravy, Hominy, Fruit & Cheese, Ice Cream

WC -Fish on Bun, Macaroni Salad, Tator tots, Pudding

EC - Beef Stew 4) EC - Italian Chicken 4) EC - Chili, Peanut Cottage Cheese, Hot Butter , Sandwich Pasta Salad Roll, Pudding Crackers, Cinnamon Rolls Peas, Jello WC - BBQ Sand, Mac & WC - Salisbury Steak, WC - Beef Roast, Potatoes, WC -Coney Dog, Coleslaw, Chips, Dessert Cheese, Baked Beans, Jello Potatoes & Gravy, Green Carrots, Roll, Dessert w/fruit Beans, Cookie

8)

EC - Beef Liver & Onions, Mashed Potatoes Gravy, Broccoli, Fruit

9)

22)

23)

3)

EC -Chicken Casserole 10) EC - Ham & Beans 11) EC - Meat Loaf 12) EC - Cabbage Roll Mashed Potatoes, Fried Potatoes, Tomato w/ Mixed Veggies Soup, Cheese Sticks Brown Gravy, Green Salad, Cornbread, Cookies Pickled Beets, Cake Crackers, Fresh Grapes Beans,Pudding WC - Chicken Alfredo, WC -Reddi Rib, Potato WC - Philly Cheesesteak, WC - Pizza, Breadstick, WC - Fried Chicken, PotaWedges, Mixed Veg., Peppers & Onions, Salad, Broccoli, Salad, Breadstick, toes & Gravy, Corn, Roll, Salad, Dessert Dessert Pudding Chips, Cookie Fruit Crisp 15) EC - Pork Cutlets 16) EC - Shrimp, Baked 17) EC - Corned Beef 18) EC - Cavatina, 19) EC - Cheesy Broccoli Cottage Cheese, Garlic Soup, Chicken Salad Sand, Potato: Sour Cream & Cooked Cabbage, Boiled Mashed Potatoes Bread, Brownies Crackers, Cobbler Butter, Broccoli Salad Fruit Potatoes, Pistachio Cake Gravy, Peas, Pudding WC Cheeseburger, Let, WC - Meatloaf, Baked WC - Veg. Soup, P.B. WC - Italian Bake, Salad, WC - Salmon Patty, Mac & Pickle, Onion, Steak Fries, Potato, Green Beans, Roll, Sandwich, Cheesestick, Carrots, Garlic Bread Cheese, Peas, Fruit Dessert Dessert Crackers, Dessert

EC - Polish Sausage Peppers & Onions, Sauerkraut, Black-Eyed Peas, Fruit WC -Bourbon Chicken, Rice, Cali. Blend Veg., Egg Roll, Dessert 29) EC - Country Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes White Gravy, Pea Salad Sherbet WC -Country Fried Steak, Potatoes & Gravy, Corn, Biscuit, Fruit

EC - Beef & Noodles Mashed Potatoes Carrots, Fruit Salad

24) EC - Ham, Macaroni 25) EC - Fried Chicken & Cheese, Stewed Tomatoes, Cookies

WC - Ham & Beans, Pota- WC - Breaded Tend. Sand., toes, Cabbage, Cornbread, Let. & Tom., Steak Fries, Dessert Pudding

30)

EC - Pepper Steak Rice, Broccoli Lemon Tart

WC - Biscuit & Gravy, Hashbrown, Sausage, Orange Juice

31)

EC - Chicken Parmesan, Carrots, Brussels Sprouts, Pudding WC - Spaghetti & Meatballs, Salad, Carrots, Garlic Bread, Cookie

Mashed Potatoes, White Gravy, Corn, Pudding WC - Catfish, Fried Okra, Baked Beans, Hushpuppies, Dessert

1)

EC - Buffalo, Mashed Potatoes Buffalo Gravy, Carrots Fruit WC - Swiss Steak, Potatoes & Gravy, Peas, Roll, Dessert

26) EC - Fish Sandwich

Potato Wedges, Baked Beans, Slaw, Cherry Whip

WC - Chicken Salad. Sand., Chips, Cottage Cheese, Peaches 2) EC - Chef Salad: w/ Lettuce, Tomato, , Ham, Turkey, Onions, Shredded Cheese, Chopped eggs, Crackers, Cake WC - Italian Sub Sand., Chips, Pasta Salad, Dessert

To order a meal in Edwards County please call by 9:30 am.

Albion- 618-445-2017 • Grayville- 618-375-7777 • 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 • March 2021

SAFE KIDS Worldwide provides Railroad Safety to area students.

Safe Kids Worldwide is a nonprofit organization working to protect kids on the road, at home and at play. Safe Kids works with an extensive network of more than 400 coalitions in the U.S. and with partners in more than 30 countries to reduce traffic injuries, drownings, falls, burns, poisonings and more. Since 1988 Safe Kids has helped reduce the U.S. childhood death rate from unintentional injury by nearly 60 percent.

Edwards County’s local partner working with SAFE KIDS is Steve Smith, of the HOPE Center in Albion, IL. He has partnered with SAFE KIDS for many years to bring safety education to students in Edwards County. This year he partnered with SAFE KIDS Worldwide and the Edwards County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom Program to provide railroad safety education to area students.

Safe Kids reports that most people already know that children and teens are particularly vulnerable to transportation-related injury, whether as a passenger in cars, on foot, bicycles, scooters, etc. However, kids are hit by trains more than most people think. In fact, every five days a child between the ages of 0 and 19 is killed in a train collision. A person or vehicle is hit by a train every 3 hours. The goal AITC Coordinator, Jane Jones demonof Safe Kids’ rail safety efforts is to reduce the number of fatal and strating how trains stick out past a train nonfatal railroad-related injuries among 0 to 19 year-olds by influenc- track and how far 15 feet away is. ing behaviors that we know to be rail-related injury risk determinants.

Ag in the Classroom worked with the Edwards County High School Drivers Education students, Albion Grade School First Graders, and West Salem Grade School Fourth graders to present railroad safety education. Hands on and participatory activities helped the students understand the risks associated with railroads. The elementary students received the book “Clifford and the Railroad Crossing.” All students discussed risks associated with railroad tragedies and learned the 4 S’ of railroad safety.

1. So what (risks & statistics associated with railways).

2. Stop (large objects do not stop quickly and RR crossing tell us to stop).

3. Sound (you cannot always hear or see a train).

4. Size (trains extend out past the tracks and their weight affects their ability to stop).

Each of these factors play a part in railroad accidents.

Pictured above are students Rosalie Crow and Gwen Hartsock using tractors to demonstrate how an object in motion stays in motion and cannot stop instantly.

With over 40 Vendors and Dealers to Shop Antiques, Collectables, Artisans and Crafts “We specialize in Nooks & Crannies” **Coming soon; The Book Nook/Used Books & I’ve Been Framed! Custom Framing and Gallery

Just Around the Corner 117 E. 4th St. Mt. Carmel • 618-263-1120 Hours: 10 - 6 - Monday - Saturday

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 21 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Virtual FBLA Eastern Area Conference

By: Brianna Witsman Recently, over 20 students competed in the FBLA Eastern Area Conference virtually. Congratulations to those members that received an award! Mt. Carmel was represented well, and a number of students will prepare for the upcoming Virtual State Conference!

Max Zimmerman- 2nd

Place in Impromptu Speaking; Anthony Bleyer- 3rd Place in Impromptu Speaking; Lauren Fisher- 1st Place in Computer Applications; Liv Alka- 2nd Place in Job Interview & Agribusiness; Ivan Holt- 2nd Place in Graphic Design; Cameron Deal- 4th Place in Business Law; Owen Dougherty- 4th Place in Intro to Financial Math; Rylie Webb- 1st Place in Business Communications; Livi Stinson- 4th Place in Business Communications; Rachael Johnson-5th Place in Business Communications; Kinze Cusick- 6th Place in Business Communications; Makayla Beesley- 8th Place in Business Communications; Lexi Fisher9th Place in Business Communications; Maya Smith- 5th Place in Health Care Administration; Savannah Ammon- 8th Place in Health Care Administration; Chandler Cusick- 5th Place in Intro to Business Communication; Justus Grove- 7th Place in Intro to Business Communication; Chase Keepes- 4th Place in Personal Finance; Jarrett West- 5th Place in Personal Finance

Page 22 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

At left: Edwads County 4H members that participated in virtual workshops. The U of I Extension Office prepared the kits that the kids registered for.

Congratulations to the Edwards County FFA members who advanced to District Proficiencies in March with their record books.

Pictured L to R with their award categories: Rylan Robb - Safety; Caleb Stevens - Outdoor Recreation; Olivia Bosecker - Equine Entrepreneurship; Carissa Jefferson - Landscape; Laney Stephens - Beef Entrepreneurship; Emma Wiseman - Ag Education

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.

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• Free concierge transportation services

Deceased Pilgrim Memorial Scholarship Applications for the Albion Moose Family Center #621 “Deceased Pilgrim Memorial Scholarship” are now available from guidance counselor Kelley Biggs at Edwards County High School. Applications must be picked up from the ECHS counselor and are not available at the Lodge.

Scholarship applications can be mailed to you by contacting Mrs. Biggs at 618-445-2325.

This will be the 21st year for this scholarship program. The Scholarship award is $2,000. Applications must be returned or postmarked by March 19, 2021.

The recipients are chosen based on their individual skills in leadership, citizenship, extra curricular activities, GPA, Moose affiliation, and a 500 word essay entitled “The value of the Fraternal Organization to My Community”. Application are available to any ECHS senior or any senior attending public high school in the counties of Wabash, Wayne, White, or Richland.

For more information contact Albion Moose Family Center #621 Scholarship Committee chairman, Michael Snidle at 618-445-7144 or snidle42@gmail.com

Page 23 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

82 Nitrogen versus UAN 32

By Josh McKibben Nutrien Ad Solutions One question when farming corn is which is better, Anhydrous Ammonia 82% Nitrogen or UAN 32%? The nitrogen debate is ever growing, not only is it a local one but a global one. Nitrogen is the leading macronutrient that corn demands and will affect yield response. The positives and negatives of both forms of Nitrogen, “N”, can only be answered by the grower. The factors that help make the decision are different in every grower’s aspect and operation. Here are some of the highlighted factors: Anhydrous Ammonia-NH3 Anhydrous ammonia is one of the most common and cheapest forms of nitrogen applied to corn. It’s low cost, compared to other forms, does come with some risk for the applicator. Exposure to anhydrous ammonia can be dangerous causing burns to the eyes, skin and lungs. Anhydrous ammonia temporarily raises the soil pH for a short period of time and the ammonia band slowly moves back to a normal pH overtime. Anhydrous ammonia is positively charged and binds with negative clay soil particles and is the least leachable of all the forms commonly used on corn. Corn can take up both ammonia and nitrate. Anhydrous ammonia converts to nitrate overtime after application into the soil.

UAN (Urea Ammonia Nitrate) UAN (Urea Ammonia Nitrate) solution has an analy-

sis of 28% or 32% nitrogen and is the most common liquid form of nitrogen used on corn. UAN is a negatively charge and does not bind with negative clay soil particles. It is very leachable and will move with water.

Excessive rain or irrigation can move the UAN solution beyond the root zone. UAN is a quick release or readily available form of nitrogen for corn. The uptake can happen very quickly after application. Surface application, where it is not incorporated, can cause the nitrogen to volatilize into the atmosphere, due to the presence of the urease enzyme, that feeds on the UAN solution. If the temperature is high enough after a UAN application, as much as 25%-50% of the UAN can volatize in three to seven days. Compatible with other fertilizers and crop protection products.

Both forms are widely used in growing corn. The grower has many different factors to look at when making the decision for their farm. An example could include having on site storage with UAN that it is not State or Federally regulated like NH3 is. Another example is NH3 having the lower usage rate. The target goal of actual N for the corn to produce can be achieved many different ways.

In the end, it will ultimately come down to what the grower is comfortable with, their amount of manpower, logistics and equipment. When comparing UAN and Anhydrous Ammonia the deciding factor is the grower themselves.

EVERY STEP. EVERY SEASON.

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To advertise call Laurie Snidle at 618-919-1941 or email: hometownvoice2019@gmail.com Page 24 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Pinehaven Christian School

Pinehaven Christian Children’s Ranch is located over 1700 miles away in St. Ignatius, Montana.

However, their ministry to help children has crossed the country to touch residents in Southern Illinois.

The Christian School at Pinehaven has teamed up with local Albion resident, Lesa Shilling, to offer a Bible-based education opportunity to children in this area. Shilling, a former teacher in the Mt. Carmel public schools, has just finished the pilot semester of the Pinehaven remote school with 16 students. Pinehaven, the students, their parents, and Shilling have deemed the semester a success and are looking forward to continuing and expanding this opportunity to others.

Shilling and her family have known about the ministry of Pinehaven for many years. Their home church, Little Prairie Christian Church, is a supporter of the Children’s Home. Pinehaven Christian Children’s Ranch is “a residential, year-round pro- Covid pandemic led to a changing environment in the public gram aimed at providing a stable, controlled, secure schools. It has caused many parents to search for other environment in which young people can reach the options for their children’s education. Pinehaven and Shilpotential that God has placed within them.” (refer- ling saw the need in the culture for a Christian school and ence www.pinehaven.net) This 1,100 acre working the opportunity to help kids and parents during this difficult kid and cattle ranch has helped over 500 children time. The ranch has a strong, established school set-up since 1976. In 2015, while on a family vacation, the for the kids, and they began to look at ways to duplicate Shilling family decided to stop by Pinehaven and that elsewhere. They decided to expand the school and start a remote “pod” of learning, with Shilling as the teacher.

The goal of the school is to provide flexibility for families in their child’s education. It also allows them the opportunity to be a part of a group. The first semester of this K-12 “pod” began in August of 2020 with 16 students. The students use Ignitia Virtual Academy, a curriculum of Alpha Omega Publications. The curriculum is an online resource that the students access at home. Shilling is available to answer questions and give guidance virtually as the students work each morning. The students get together for P.E. once a week and have a book discussion group that meets as well. The school meets all Illinois standards for education, provides see firsthand what the ministry was about. They met founders Bob and Nancy Larsson and received a tour.

They were so moved by the ministry that they returned in 2017 to spend a couple of days helping at the ranch.

Working at the ranch has been a part of their summer vacation ever since.

Pinehaven’s mission to help children resonated strongly with the Shilling family. Lesa Shilling has spent most of her career in education with the goal of helping kids. She has not only taught, but mentored children through her teaching position and still has strong mentorships with several former students. However, the

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Page 25 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Pinehaven Christian School continued each of them to enjoy learning! Mrs. Lesa is driven, dedicated and sincere in her pursuit to serve others and to help each of her students grow in their faith and in their educational endeavors!”

Plans for the future of the school look promising.

Several of the students are traveling with their families out to Pinehaven for a work trip this summer. Shilling is already accepting students for the fall semester. Most of the students she has are continuing with the program. Mark and Jennifer Greathouse of West Salem have their son, River, in the Pinehaven School. “River enjoys all of his subjects and feels challenged with what he is learning. We love the flexibility that learning at home has offered. River is even working ahead so that he can take some time to farm with Mark in the spring. Lesa is wonderful to every student, enthusiasrecords, grade cards, and transcripts. Shilling holds a tic, and always available for any questions. She is a BA of Arts in History and English, a Master of Arts in great role model for the kids and we are very thankful English, and is certified to teach in Illinois and Montana. for her and for Pinehaven!” says Jennifer.

Sixteen-year-old Brooklyn Mays is one of Shilling’s stu- For more information on Pinehaven Christian dents. She shared this about her teacher: “Mrs. Lesa School’s learning opportunity for this area, email Lesa truly is a blessing in each of her students’ lives. She Shilling at lshilling.pinehaven@gmail.com. For more has a passion for Jesus and encourages each of her information on the ministry of the Pinehaven Christian students to seek out the Lord with all their heart! She Children’s Ranch, check out the website www.pinehavalso encourages her students to do their best and wants en.net.

Jacob Weber places 3rd in Archery Competition winners of each class. The Championship Compound Open, Championship Compound Female and Championship Young Adult classes would go to a shoot-off to determine podium winners.

On Saturday, Jacob shot a clean 600/600 round with 46/90 X’s. Sunday, he shot a clean 300/300 round with 22/30 X’s to end the weekend with one of only three perfect 900 scores in the Championship Young Adult class. Those 3 archers went to the shoot-off on Sunday evening to determine final placement. Jacob pulled away with the 3rd place podium finish.

Jacob Weber recently placed 3rd in the Championship Young Adult class at the 2021 NFAA Rushmore Rumble in Yankton, South Dakota on Feb 12-14.

With all the national in-person indoor archery events for the winter being cancelled, the NFAA, with the help of many sponsors, was able to host the 1st Rushmore Rumble event in Yankton, SD. The event brought in 700 archers representing 47 states and 4 countries. The event started on Friday, February 12 with registrations, vendor set up and practice. Competition began on Saturday with a 600 Vegas style 5-spot shoot and Sunday was a 300 Vegas 3-spot shoot. The scores for both days were added to determine

Page 26 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

MCHS Scholastic Streak Stretches to Six Maya Angelou wrote, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” For high school students, the writing of those stories delivers catharsis. Across the nation, those student stories may be submitted to a time-honored and storied awards program, Scholastic Art & Writing, with a tradition of encouraging writers we have read ourselves such as Sylvia Plath, Andy Warhol, and Truman Capote.

Because of the pandemic, and because of remote learning and other school and community parameters across the region and the country, the deadline shifted while students were writing. However, MCHS students were resilient and determined and submitted competition-ready writing in poetry, personal essay & memoir, short story, portfolio, science fiction & fantasy, and the One Earth scholarship categories. MCHS students who submitted writing were Alexandria Archer, Margaret Bleyer, Kyle Dunn, Eva Hocking, Allyson Pierce, Anne Schroeder & Maxwell Zimmerman.

The competition for writers presents awards in three categories. Honorable Mention is granted to the top 10-15% of all entries; Silver Key to the top 7-10%, and Gold Key to the top 5-7%.

Scholastic jurors in this region reviewed thousands of entries this year, and with the extended deadline, the number of entries grew proportionally.

MCHS is pleased to announce one winner, Margaret (Maggee) Bleyer, of three honorable mentions and a Silver Key. Maggee won awards in the following categories: personal essay & memoir, short story, poetry, and science fiction & fantasy. The Silver Key was awarded for the science fiction & fantasy piece, “When the Story Ends.”

Maggee Bleyer is the daughter of Dr. Chuck & Mrs. Tracee

Bleyer. Maggee is an anchorwoman/scriptwriter on the MCHS television production Aces TV, and she will perform the role of Alice Beineke in the spring musical production of The Addams Family. About her pieces, Maggee shared this, “Some pieces were written as a form of closure for past experiences. I used my inspiration toward life and other situations to guide my writing. My Silver Key was awarded in a genre I am proud of writing in because I broke the fourth wall. I believe my honorable mentions and Silver Key display my love for writing.” After graduation, Maggee plans to major in English and Radio/Television Communications at Wabash Valley College for the first two years and then transfer for further study at a university in the midwest.

Prep, freeze, and cook workshop- April 7, 2021 The Edwards and Wabash County Farm Bureaus, in conjunction with the Illinois Farm Bureau, will be hosting a prep, freeze, and cook workshop (with an AG twist) on April 7, 2021 starting at 6:00 pm in the evening at the Edwards County Farm Bureau community room.

At this workshop, attendees will make four simple freezer meals for their family. While making these meals, attendees will hear from local farmers about how the

products used in these meals are grown.

The cost is $30 per person/family if you are a member of the Edwards or Wabash County Farm Bureaus. The cost is $60 per person/family for all others.

There is a limit of 20 people/families for this workshop. If you would like to attend, please call the Edwards (618-445-2113) or Wabash (618-262-5865) County Farm Bureaus.

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Page 27 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

“Mr. Clancy, Sir” Part 1 - by Daisy Roser It was about midday. An old man sat in a cracker barrel rocker on his front porch, staring out over a weedy yard. The porch was leaning sideways, and the rocking chair looked suspiciously like it could fall over any second. The windows of the house were shuttered, but the paint on the shutters was peeling. The siding of the house was crooked and morphed, a cheap, off-white, plastic brand that was chipping in places. The dark windows of the house on the upper level were unshuttered, the shades probably having long ago fallen off. They stared out onto the lonely street like empty eye sockets in a mournful face.

The man looked no better than his surroundings. His white beard was scraggly and unkempt. Age spots were dotting along his forehead and cheeks. His skin was tan and leathery, like someone who had been out in the sun often. His hands were weak and trembling as he shifted them in his lap, they were so calloused and worn they were hardly recognizable as hands. He looked about a hundred, his faded clothes were patched and frayed in several places. The slightly morose, longing expression on his face made him seem all the more ancient. The only thing that was young about him was his eyes, wide and searching. Though his expression seemed tired and faded, his eyes were bright and glittering.

He watched the empty street before him with a strange, almost painful intensity. He was waiting for something, someone. It seemed hours to him as he waited, searching the streets. The weedy yard before him was a familiar sight, the brownish, dying plants hadn’t been tended in years. He hadn’t touched the garden since he was younger when he was able to get around.

It had been a long time since he had been able to walk more than a few feet without grimacing in pain and panting with exhaustion. But the old man didn’t mind, because today, he was coming. To stay, hopefully. Maybe for a few days, but at least for an hour. He would bring his little boy, maybe.

When a jacked-up ford ranger finally came rumbling down the street, the old man nearly leaped from his chair.

His hands were trembling again as the expensive black truck pulled up to the driveway and the engine stopped.

The door swung outward. The old man watched.

Finally, black shoes touched the ground; a man in a designer suit climbed out of the front seat. His hair was greying slightly and he was wider around than he had been before. But the old man recognized him immediately. It was his son. Kevin. He half-expected the man to come barreling up the driveway to give a crushing hug and a loud mumble of excited words like he had done as a boy. But Kevin paused, looking up at the time-worn house, eyes appraising, expression calculated.

The front passenger side opened. An older boy, about six feet tall, climbed out, he ducked to avoid hitting his head on the car ceiling. His designer suit was as immaculate as his father’s. But the old man found it hard to believe that this tall youth was really the six-year-old grandson of years before. The lad’s movements were listless and bored, his expression betrayed his contempt for the old house and weedy yard the second he set eyes on it. His dull brown hair was too long, it had a foppish style to it that made him look spoiled without saying a word.

The boy brushed off an invisible flake of dust from the front of the suit as if the very sight of the house soiled him. He opened the back door of the truck and pulled out a single suitcase. He slammed the door behind him.

Kevin nodded at the boy, gave the house another disdainful glance, adjusted his fancy cufflinks. And immediately climbed back into the truck.

The old man sitting on the porch jumped up, his expression morphing into horror. “Kevin!” he called, tottering to the edge of the porch, “Kevin, wait!” His wheezy voice was grainy with unuse, and the shout came out more like a gasping breath. “He won’t be back for a few days,” the boy said, starting up the driveway with his suitcase before Kevin had even pulled away. “I’ll call him when I think the house is ready.”

Lyle, that was the boy’s name, an unusual name to be sure, but he had a nice voice, not too deep, not too high. It wasn’t wheezy or scratchy, and his stiff enunciation of the words made him seem almost sophisticated.

“W-what are you doing here?” the old man asked, continued on page 29

Page 28 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

“Mr. Clancy, Sir” Part 1 - continued continued from page 28 stumbling back over to his chair and falling into it with a repressed sigh. “I’ve been doing Dad’s dirty work for almost four years now,” Lyle said without a strain of resentment. His tone was light and conversational, even though his body language portrayed pure boredom as he slouched up the crumbling concrete steps and onto the crooked porch. “He gives me a tenth of the profit.”

Lyle spoke, his voice was just the right tone to be heard, the old man didn’t have to strain to hear him. But the boy wasn’t straining his words to be heard. He wasn’t speaking loudly and stiffly or stressing each of his syllables like most people do when talking to old men. He simply spoke. “I fix up the outside, paint, whitewash, pressurewash, weed the garden, fix the shutters and such. I even do some minor construction, reboarding or setting up a temporary fence. Then I take pictures and send them to Dad. He finds a buyer online and swindles them flat.” Lyle took a few steps forward and stretched out a hand to his grandfather by way of introduction. “I’m Lyle if you don’t remember. It’s nice to officially remeet you, Mr. Clancy.”

“Yes, yes,” the old man stammered, returning the handshake, finding that, despite his grandson’s smoothtalking and foppish looks, he had a firm grip. “Of course I remember you, and please don’t call me Mr. Clancy.

But…” he paused slightly, “A-a buyer?” “Didn’t he tell you?” Lyle asked forehead wrinkling, “Or ask you, discuss it with you, Ex. Cetra? I thought since it was your house, that you decided to sell it.”

“Was my house?” the old man asked. “But it is my house.” his statement came out as more of a question as he slumped lower into his seat. “So he didn’t, did he?” Lyle’s voice softened. He sighed, pushing a lock of too-long hair out of his eyes. “If he sells this house, where will I go?” “I thought it was a mutual agreement that you would go to the... the… assistant living or something.” “Assisted living?” the old man repeated, expression crumbling. “We’ll have to call your father, boy,” he straightened in his chair and started to get up, changing his expression into determination. “Because I can’t go there,” he said firmly, his wheezy voice made the statement less convincing. But, you have to,” Lyle said, sounding surprised by his grandfather’s determination.

He finally straightened, fashionably bored posture forgotten. “Don’t you Mr. Clancy?”

“Please don’t call me Mr. Clancy.” The grandfather said. “And no, I’ve been taking care of myself for the last twenty years, I’m not going to stop now.” “Why don’t you just quit while you’re ahead?” Lyle asked studiously, ignoring the first statement. The old man remained silent, stumbling to his feet and walking over to the screen door.

His jaw clenched. His footsteps uneven. “Well, I need to change clothes before I get to work,” Lyle said, following his grandfather inside. The inside of the house wasn’t

much better than the outside. The tiled floor was far out of date, the paint on walls was peeling and there were cobwebs in the corners of the room. “I’ll sleep on the couch if you don’t have a spare room,” Lyle said cheerfully, setting his suitcase next to a small couch in the middle of the front room, the flowered upholstery was torn in places. “Dad said that you’ve got all the tools I need in the shed out back if you don’t mind me using them, sir.”

Ten minutes later the boy was already at work outside. He had shed his designer suit, making polite conversation from the next room as he changed clothes.

Saying that there had been some sort of a board meeting before that he had been attending with his father. Commenting on how much he could get done that day and how he was glad that he had gotten to come so early.

He told of the many times he had come on late days and worked tirelessly into the long nights. It rather amazed Mr. Clancy, that with how awful of a son Kevin had been, he had somehow managed to be a pretty good father.

Lyle had easy manners and good conversational skills, somehow acting bored without being boring himself. The old man could hear a banging coming from the shed outside. He fingered his old, normally unused, cell phone, staring down at it. It took his weak, trembling fingers a long, long time to dial his son’s number. It took him a moment to press the call button on his old-fashioned flip phone. For how anxious and desperate he had been earlier in the day, he had to force himself to press that button. He debated how much he really wanted to have that conversation. It had been a long time since he had spoken with him. Kevin never had time.

Even as a boy Kevin had seemed to think himself too cool for his old-fashioned Dad. As a young adult, he had moved away with a young wife and rarely visited. And then, when Lyle was only six years old, they had had that fight. Mr. Clancy sighed as he waited for his son to pick up. How he wished they hadn’t had that fight. Kevin had only come back once since then when Mrs. Clancy died.

His own mother and he didn’t even bother to bring his wife or Lyle.

Jr Markman, Owner 1365 Illinois Route 130 Albion, IL 62806

618-446-2703 Fax: 618-446-3269

Page 29 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Phi Theta Kappa application period open at Wabash Valley College

Mount Carmel, Ill.— The application period for Wabash Valley College’s honor society, Phi Theta Kappa, is now open. Applications are available in the Student Services office and must be turned in by March 5, 2021.

Phi Theta Kappa is the national honor society for American Community Colleges. Its purposes are the promotion of scholarship, the development of leadership and service and the cultivation of fellowship among community college students.

To be eligible, a student must maintain a 3.5 or better GPA and must be enrolled full time in a degree program.

Students may check their ENTRATA transcript or inquire in Student Services for GPA information. Studentsmeeting the criteria above should contact Student Services Office in Main Hall to complete and submit application forms prior to the deadline. Application fees must also be paid by the deadline as well.

Members are recognized at WVC’s commencement ceremony.

Each year Phi Theta Kappa awards cash scholarships to the top graduating students who compete by filing an application and writing an essay.

Phi Theta Kappa membership provides many benefits to students, including scholarship opportunities as they transfer on to universities.

Those who are interested in joining the largest honor society in

Welcome to the

American higher education should contact Brenda Phegley, Phi Theta Kappa Advisor, at phegleyb@iecc. edu or Student Services.

Above: Edwads County 4H members that participated in virtual workshops.

The U of I Extension Office prepared the kits that the kids registered for.

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Page 30 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Edwards County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee Safety Bookmarks The week of February 28 until March 6 is Agricultural Safety Awareness Program (ASAP) Week. This is a week set aside to promote safety in agriculture and rural America. To help promote safety, the Edwards County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee sponsored a contest for Edwards County 4-Hers to design a bookmark about safety.

The theme for 2021 ASAP Week is “Driving Safety Home.” There were 6 entries into the contest. The entries by Sarah Spray, daughter of Chris and Audra Spray of rural Albion; and Hannah Perry, daughter of Arron and Rebecca Perry of rural Albion, were printed on a double sided bookmark which was distributed to the students at Albion and West Salem Grade Schools.

If you have a story idea or picture to share...contact Laurie Snidle at hometownvoice2019 @gmail.com

Samantha McDaniel Educational Services Representative Now is the perfect time to get some books to fill up those Easter baskets!

Contact me with any questions, for recommendations or to host your own online party to earn FREE books! sjrmcdaniel@gmail.com Shop here, anytime: https://j7584.myubam.com

Page 31 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

“Mr. Clancy, Sir” Part 1

by Daisy Roser continued

continued from page 28 He didn’t really expect his son to answer. Kevin would be purposely ignoring him just like he had been for the last decade. There was the dead beep, his son’s familiar voice, calmly telling him to leave a message after the tone. Mr. Clancy slumped. He didn’t even remember what the fight had been about. Mr. Clancy wished it were something important, something worth estranging themselves from each other over. But he knew it wasn’t.

All those years of lonesome existence, waisted. They had had another fight, at May’s funeral, but he didn’t re-

member half the words said. It was only a hazy recollection of pain and anger, so he knew the fight hadn’t been over anything important. But a sudden thought made Mr. Clancy raise his grizzled head.

All those years he had wished that the fight hadn’t happened. All those years he had hoped to see his grandson again.And now he had the chance.

No matter that Lyle was fixing up the house so Kevin could sell it. No matter that Mr. Clancy would be headed to the nursing home or assisted living as soon as this was over.He had a surprisingly caring and respectful grandson who was outside working, probably already sweating and thirsty. Mr. Clancy stood up and started making two glasses of lemonade.

March Birthdays Glen Meritt - 12th Carolyn Potts - 18th Courtney Collins - 22nd Melanie Wyant - 27th • Ryan Ginther - 30th

Happy 5th Birthday

Sophie Garcia

Happy Birthday Grandma Debbie We Love You!

March 13th Love, Seaton & Laurie

Happy Birthday Michael Snidle March 24th Love, Mom & Dad

Debbie Fearn - March 13th 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 32 • Hometown Voice • March 2021

Meet your new cash cow.

*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. APYs accurate as of 1/21/20. Minimum to open is $100. Qualifications: You must have 15 posted and settled debit card purchases per monthly statement cycle. Only point-of-sale (POS) debit card transactions processed through a merchant qualify. ATM transactions are excluded. You must be enrolled to receive your monthly statements electronically. To qualify, you cannot receive paper statements.

You must have at least one (1) automatic debit transaction each month setup through ACH or Bill Pay. If all qualifications are met each monthly qualification cycle: (1) ATM fees incurred during qualification cycle will be reimbursed up to $20 and credited to your account on the last day of the statement cycle; (2) balances up to and including $20,000 receive APY of 3.00%; and (3) balances over $20,000 earn 0.25% interest on the portion of the balance over $20,000, resulting in 3.00% to 0.71% APY depending on the balance. If qualifications are not met all balances earn 0.05% APY. Fees could reduce the earnings on the account. Qualifying transactions must post and settle during the monthly statement cycle. Transactions may take one or more banking days from the date transaction was made to post to and settle account. The advertised APY is based on compounding interest. Rates may change after account is opened. Limit one account per social security number.

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