SPOTLIGHT ON HERRIN
Spirit, resiliency and commitment These are the things that make Herrin a special place to live and work f there’s anyone who really knows Herrin, it is probably Cheryl Ranchino Trench. Not only has she, for 37 years, written “The Paper Telephone” column, which now appears in The Southern’s Plus edition, she is a lifelong resident of the Williamson County community. She says her town is unique. “I know that the people make every town in America, but I think we have some of the best people right here in
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THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO
Kamera Smith, 4, of Herrin peers out into the pond at Herrin City Park where she and her father, Kody, had gone to feed the ducks. The welfare and education of its children is one of Herrin’s priorities.
our home of Herrin,” she says. “Many people come back here, even after leaving, and do some great and wonderful things. That means we’re doing something right.” She says there is a particular spirit of community in Herrin. It’s a strength that local businessman and pastpresident of the Herrin Chamber of Commerce also sees. SEE HERRIN / PAGE 3
Content written by Les O’Dell / For The Southern
THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO
Participants bow their heads as Gary Hernbeck leads a prayer during National Day of Prayer May 3 outside city hall. Churches play a large role in the daily lives of Herrin residents. The Southern Illinoisan (USPS 258-980) is published daily for $178 per year at 710 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901. The Southern Illinoisan is owned by Lee Enterprises, Inc. of Davenport, Iowa.
special.thesouthern.com Page 2 Thursday, November 1, 2012 The Southern Illinoisan
• Bob Williams , publisher bob.williams@thesouthern.com