2015 Wabash County Chamber Guide

The

Chamber

Wa ba s h Co u nt y I l l in o is

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SAFE, SOUND and SECURE. Since 1906 !

First National Bank Board Members: seated, Mike Dunkel, Mike White, Jim Litherlandemeritus, Bryan Loeffler, standing, Don Price-board secretary, Shane Gray, Phil Hipsher and Rob Coleman.

The First National Bank is proud to be part of the rich heritage of Wabash County. We would like to thank our customers, stockholders, and employees for their patronage and support over the past 109 years.

We greatly appreciate the opportunity to be of service to our existing customers and, as always, we are looking for new banking relationships. Come see us today!

SINCE 1906 Com m unity | Stability | O pportunity www.e-firstnationalbank.com

SINCE 1906 ALLENDALE, (618) 299-4411 Member FDIC

MT. CARMEL, (618) 263-6511

WELCOME TO WABASH COUNTY

Wabash County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lesley Hipsher The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce strives to make Wabash County a great place to live, work, and relax. We assist businesses, organizations, and individuals with many needs. We are a private non-profit organization that is funded primarily by dues paid by members, businesses, sponsorships, and events held throughout the year. We are not a government agency and receive no tax dollars.

The Chamber Office is the center of communication for community events. We update the Community Calendar that is on the City and our website. It is also printed in the local newspaper on a weekly basis. Some other great events we host each year are Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon, a Golf Outing, Picnic In The Park, Ag Days (a four day street carnival on Market Street!), an Annual Banquet, the Christmas Parade, Spooktacular 5K, as well as many Ribbon Cuttings, Open Houses, and After Hour Mixers.

The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce is located in the City Hall building at 219 North Market Street in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Call us if there is ever anything you need (618) 262 5116. We look forward to many more great things in the future.

TOGETHER WE BUILD A GREATER WABASH COUNTY www.WabashCountyChamber.com www.facebook.com/wabashcountychamber

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Index Welcome.................................3 County Demographic.............6 Member List...........................7 The Arts..................................8 Health and Wellness...............9 Education..............................10 Recreation.............................11 Industry.................................12 Agriculture........................... 13 Opportunity Is Here.............. 14

Events and Attractions..........16 Protection..............................18 Museum................................19 Dining...................................20 County History......................21 Chamber Directors................22 Government...........................23 Sports....................................24 Wabash River........................25 Chamber of Commerce........26

A Local and Global Leader since 1981 bdindependence.com

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Demographics With a beautiful landscape and rich tradition, Wabash County is a great place to call home.

With 11,549 people, according to the 2014 census, Wabash County is the 86th most populated county in the state of Illinois, out of 102.

The median household income is $46,365.

Average age of residents is 42.5 years old.

The largest racial/ethnic groups are white (96.1%), follwed by asian (1.4%), hispanic (1.3%) and those who are two or more races (1%).

The county is made up of: • Mt. Carmel - Population 7,034 • Allendale - Population 461 • Bellmont - Population 240 • Keensburg - Population 179 • Lancaster, Patton, Cowling, Orio and Maud each consist of less than 100 residents.

Find your way

1. Mesa Lake 2. Lancaster 3. Orio 4. Allendale 5. Friendsville 6. Patton 7. Maud

8. Mt. Carmel 9. Bellmont 10. Keensburg 11. Wabash Mine 12. Rochester 13. Cowling 14. Beall Woods

Serving our neighbors, families and friends . . .

MT. CARMEL PUBLIC UTILITY CO. distributes electricity and natural gas to approximately 7,500 households and businesses in Wabash County, IL and a small portion of southern Lawrence County, IL. Our business office is located in Mt. Carmel, IL. Please let us know how we can serve you.

Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

316 Market Street • 262-5151 • Mt. Carmel, IL www.mtcpu.com

2015 Chamber Members

The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce is made up of many businesses throughout the county. As new businesses come to the county, the list grows. Members include: 3 Girls & A Swirl 89.1 The Bash AAG Properties LLC Addus Health Care ADG/Architecture and Design Group Air Evac Life Team Allendale Gravel Company Aly Mae Images Anderson Brothers Oil Andrews Oil/Fastbreak Anytime Fitness -Dougherty Fitness, Inc. Area Economic Alliance Attic, The B & D Independence Berries & Blooms Boutique Bethards, Bob Big Jon’s Lunch Box Bill Eblin Trucking, LLC Bishop Motors, Inc. Body & Sol Borowiak’s IGA Brewsky’s Pub, Inc Brushfire Buehlers Buy-Low Cabi Cash 2 Go Caring Stitches Carquest -9th Street Parts Casey’s Celtic Healthcare Chestnut Grove City of Mt. Carmel Comeaux’s Daiquiri Depot Comprehensive Dental Conoco / Stag Enterprises Corner, The Corwin Printing Cravens, Zanada Cyrus Seven CTB Auto Repair D & R Rentals Dee Drilling Company Deecane, Inc. Dersch Energies/2-Go’s DHI Realty Inc. Dragon Nail Dulgar, Justin Eagles Edward Jones-Josh Farley Edward Jones -Tanja Bingham Edward Jones - Tim Phillips Edward Jones -Toni Brines Elks of Mt. Carmel #715 Embroidery by Gayla Emmons, Jack Excel Gymnastics Club Famous J’s Drive Thru Feather Your Nest Finish Line, The First Bank First Insurance First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust First National Bank Food for Thought Four Ten Outdoor, LLC Geo-Bar Petroleum Gottman’s Custom Jewelry Great Stuff Consignments Grind Athletics & Apparel, The Guardian Center, Inc., The

H & D Auto Hairport Handrafted Celebrations Harris Insurance Company Hen n’ Chicks Henegar, Marylin Hipsher, Elaine HLS + Wellness Hocking & Brugger, PC Hope Pregnancy Center Hocking Real Estate Hogg Heaven Bar-B-Q Housing Authority of Co. of Wabash Homan, Leta Homan’s Barber Shop Hot Tees and Cool Vinyl Hometown Energy Howard’s DJ Service Howell Paving H & R Block Indoff IT WORKS J. Wilderman Autoplex Jeff Guisewite, INC. Jeff Parker Building Services Jeff Thompson & Sons Jim’s Cork & Bottle Josh Eblin Trucking, LLC. Kblooms a Flower Shop, LLC. Keepes Funeral Home Keepes Monument Company Kelly O’s Pizza Kemper CPA Group, LLP Kieffer Brothers Construction Co. Inc. Kieffer Lumber Company Koger & Bramlet, P.C. Kolbs culinary creations Komen Greater Evansville Affil.

Lawrence Oil Company Little House of Music, The Little Italy’s Pizza Long John Silvers MAP Oil Co Inc Maple Hill Marketing Maple Hill Restorations McGees Body Shop Inc. MCHS Alumni Foundation Metalworks Machine Shop Miller Testing Service Mt. Carmel Chiropractic Clinic Mt. Carmel Fire Dept.

Mt. Carmel Lions Club Mt. Carmel Public Library Mt. Carmel Public Utility Co. Mt. Carmel Rural King Mt. Carmel Stabilization Group Moose Lodge #1155 MotoRad -Transcedar Limited, dba Mount Carmel Register Mundy Insurance & Real Estate Navigator/Prairie Post New Channel 15 NewWave Communications Oakland City University Oakview Heights Opportunities for Access Oswald Communications Out of Zion Prayer Center Pacific Press Technologies Partee, Diane Pat’s Pawn Pfeister, James Pizza Hut of Mt. Carmel Premium Rock Bit Corp Price Thomas E.

Priest, Bill R’z Café & Catering Co Rent One Rhine Ernest LLP Rides Mass Transit District Ron’s Beer-B-Que Rotary Club of Mt. Carmel S. K. Smith Electric Safe Haven Sara Storckman Realty, Inc Schoogies Schrader, David Schuh’s Firearm & Supples Shamrock Motel Sharp & Williams ShopKo Silcom Media Short & Cunningham Funeral Smile Center Smith Jewelers Southeastern IL Agency on Aging Southern Triangle Oil Springleaf Financial Services St. Mary’s Catholic Church St. Mary’s Catholic School State Farm Insurance State Farm Insurance Stouse, Patricia Stress Free House Cleaning Subway Super 8 Motel Swift’s Sanctuary T6 Broadband Taco Tierra Tastee Freez TenPins, LLC Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant Thomson & Pettyjohn* Toyota Motor Manufacturing, IN Tri-Kote Inc. Tristate Clinic of Chiropractic Tropic Tan U of I Extension-Wabash County UniQuePersonnel Consultants Valley Properties Vintage Collections Vigo Coal Voigt, Sally WSJD 100.5 WYNG Radio Station 94.9 FM W-Technologies, Inc. Wabash Area Development, Inc. Wabash Area Vocational Enterprises Wabash Container Corp Wabash Com. Unit SD #348 Wabash County Commissioners Wabash County Farm Bureau Wabash Co Health Dept Wabash County State’s Attorney Wabash County Project Success Wabash County Youth Center Wabash General Hospital Wabash Gun Club Wabash Ribberfest BBQ Championship Wabash Valley Arts Council Wabash Valley College WVC Marketing Business Management Club WVC Art Gallery WVC Red Café Wabash Valley Youth in Action Wash -n- Go Waterbury Enterprises, Inc. Wilcox, McCorkle & Company LTD Your Flower Shop Zachry Industrial, Inc.

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The Arts Wabash County is filled with talented individuals that keep the arts alive. There are groups and guilds that meet on a regular basis, and talented troupes have been known to make a stop here on their circuits. Mt. Carmel High School’s young theatre members have outstanding musicals and performances. Wabash Valley College is also known for its spectacular shows in the Brubeck Arts Center. From paintings and sculptures to plays and recitals, Wabash County’s talent will blow you away.

123 W. 4th St., Suite #2 • Mt. Carmel, IL

Ph (618) 262-3685 • Fax (618) 262-8665

www.hockingrealestate.net www.trulia.com www.tristate-media.com

MT. CARMEL STABILIZATION GROUP

BILIZATIO STA GROUP N INC.

1611 College Drive Mt. Carmel, IL

262-5118

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Health and Wellness The Wabash County Health Department was established in 1983, and continues to grow and expand. The Health Department offers a broad spectrum of health care services through its program divisions: Public Health, Behavioral Health and Prevention.

The main building, located at 130 West 7th Street in Mt. Carmel, houses the administrative offices and Prevention and Public Health Divisions.

The Behavioral Health Division, also known as the Depot Counseling Center, is at 1001 N. Market Street in Mt. Carmel.

The Public Health Division houses an array of programs and services, including Family Case Management, Teen Parent Services and the Women, Infant and Child Nutrition Education and Supplemental Food Program.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors and nationally-certified Lactation Consultants are also on staff.

Infant-to-adult immunizations, TB skin testing, infectious disease follow-up, lead screening program, STD testing and chronic disease monitoring and screening are also services offered to the public.

The Behavioral Health Division provides mental health services to citizens age 3 and up. Family counseling and parenting classes are available.

The Prevention Division focuses on community education and collaboration with other health and service providers in addressing health and wellness needs. The Prevention Division houses the All Our Kids (AOK) Early Intervention Program/ Network, the Illinois Smoke-Free Communities, Breast Health Education and Patient Navigator Services, Heart Smart Teens, Emergency and Bioterrorism Planning, Vision and Hearing, CPR and Car Passenger Safety Seat checks.

Wabash General Hospital opened its doors to the citizens of Wabash County on June 13, 1951. Since then, it has changed with the times and is now one of the most modern facilities in Illinois. A new building was added in 1982, and in June 2001 the hospital received a complete face-lift with an extensive remodeling project.

Orthapaedic surgery was an added service in 2005 when the surgery suite underwent an extensive expansion and renovation. In 2011 WGH opened the new medical office building, constructed across the street from the main hospital campus on College Drive. The 12,000-square-foot facility houses expanded orthopaedic and rehab services. It is designed with six examination rooms, areas for support services, X-ray and offices.

Other services offered by the hospital include respiratory therapy, a full-service laboratory, cardiac rehab and physical and occupational therapy, radiology, surgery, ER special care, nursing services, dietary services, patient representatives, hospice care, swing bed services, social services and discharge planning, and an ambulance service.

The Wabash General Hospital Auxiliary was established in 1962. The Auxiliary’s main source of income is from the hospital gift shop and bake sale.

These profits are also utilized to purchase equipment for the hospital.

The Wabash General Hospital Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that raises money for needed equipment. Since 1985, it has donated over $1 million to the hospital for equipment and patient rooms.

Comfort that can fit into any budget

With a full line of best in class home comfort systems, a Carrier system can fit into any home budget.

SHARP & WILLIAMS

Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

202 W. 9th Street

618-263-3231

Mt. Carmel, Illinois

Jeff Spruell

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Education Allendale District 17 serves from preschool to 8th grade in the village of Allendale. The school was completely re-built after the tornado of 1989.

Wabash County’s education system consists of outstanding institutions at every level, from preschool to college.

District #348 is the largest district in the county. Schools that comprise District #348 include South Elementary School (serving K-2), North Intermediate Center of Education (serving grades 3-5), Mt. Carmel Middle School (grades 6-8), and Mt. Carmel High School (grades 9-12). The Preschool For All program is housed near the District office, just off the campus of North Intermediate.

The City Of

Wabash County is also home to two parochial schools: St. Mary’s Catholic School and Lancaster Christian. St. Mary’s houses Pre-K through 8th grade and Lancaster serves K-5th grades.

Wabash Valley College is a twoyear co-ed community college that has been serving the county for over 50 years. The fully accredited college is recognized by the Illinois Community College Board as a Class I Community College. The college offers two year degrees as well as technical programs and vocational-technical certificates.

Work-based training and practical learning are keys to the Wabash Valley College experience.

Mayor William Hudson

Justin Dulgar, Eric Ikemire, Joe Judge, Rod Rodriguez

Recreation

Wabash County is filled with outdoor recreational sites where families can spend quality time with one another, or an individual can become “one with nature.� Parks can be found in Mt. Carmel and Allendale, as well as Beall Woods State Park, located in rural Wabash County.

There are also several areas where sports enthusiasts can have a little fun.

Tennis courts are available at Wabash Valley College, as well as several baseball and softball parks around the county, the Mt. Carmel Golf Course, Lake Froman, and the Mt. Carmel City Pool. Anglers can also have their fun fishing at WVC, Beall Woods, and the Wabash River.

St. Mary - Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church 125 West 5th Street | Mount Carmel, Illinois Reverend Father Robert Zwilling, Pastor www.stmarysparish.net | (618) 262-5337 Mass Times: Saturday 5:00 p.m.

Sunday 7:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

St. Sebastian Catholic Church 4921 North 1400 Blvd Mount Carmel, Illinois Reverend Father Robert Zwilling, Pastor Mass Times: Sunday 8:30 a.m. & Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

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Industry

We are also home to businesses that have made a name for the county throughout the nation, such as B&D Independence, Wabash Container Corporation, Pacific Press and Mt. Carmel Stabilization.

Wabash County’s industry has seen many changes over the years, but a few areas have kept the community strong.

With large oil and coal reserves, the area has two thriving industrial arenas.

Tax & Estate Planning - Bookkeeping Business Valuation - Wealth Management

ANDERSON BROS. PHILLIPS 66 West View 66 Fast Lube & Snack Shop

West 9th Street • Mt. Carmel 262-5631

Ryan L. Masterson, CPA, CFE, CVA rmasterson@kcpag.com

631 N Market Street, Mt. Carmel, IL P:(618)263-3888 F:(618)262-8311

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Agriculture Wabash County has rich roots of agriculture, with it being home to several centennial and bicentennial farmsteads.

Since we live in the “Corn Belt,” grains are commonly grown. Some of the major crops in the county include corn, soybeans, wheat and sorgham. Common livestock also includes cattle, hogs, goats and poultry.

Other specialty crops and livestock can also be found.

At a Glance: Average size of farms: 556 acres Average value of products sold per farm: $113,189 Average value of crops sold per acre of harvested cropland: $203.83 The value of livestock, poultry, and their products as a percentage of the total market value of agricultural products sold: 12.27% Average total farm production expenses per farm: $88,809 Harvested cropland as a percentage of land in farms: 87.69% Average market value of all machinery and equipment per farm: $135,456 The percentage of farms operated by a family or individual: 88.94% Average age of principal farm operators: 54 years Average number of cattle and calves per 100 acres of all land in farms: 2.93 Milk cows as a percentage of all cattle and calves: 12.60% Corn for grain: 46,961 harvested acres All wheat for grain: 6,097 harvested acres Soybeans for beans: 46,078 harvested acres Vegetables: 6 harvested acres Land in orchards: 5 acres

County Commissioners

Serving The Citizens of

WABASH COUNTY

Derek Morgan Sheriff

Janet Will County Clerk

Larry Hodgson Coroner

Angie Crum Circuit Clerk

Cassandra Goldman

William C. Hudson

State’s Attorney

Circuit Judge

Robbie Thompson, Tim Hocking & Rob Dean

Beverly McBride Treasurer

Deborah Gittings County Assessor

Dustin Bunting Engineer

Janice Bobbitt

Cindy Poland Health Dept.

Gerald Brooks WEMA Cord.

General Assistance

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Opportunity is Here

Recent times have seen several new businesses pop up in Wabash County. From KBlooms Flower Shop to Hen ‘n Chicks Antiques and Gifts, the county offers a wide variety of goods and services.

Some new business owners have even made the effort to donate their time and money to institutions such as local school districts. And, of course, there’s Warrior Village, the new dorms on Wabash Valley College campus, built by Kieffer Development.

Natural resources are abundant, highways are uncongested, and the classic rural work ethic is strong.

Individuals interested in starting a business in Wabash County can contact Mt. Carmel City Hall to find details on property availability and incentives offered at 618-262-4822, or visit the city’s website at www.cityofmtcarmel.com.

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Shopping Uptown Mt. Carmel can boast a quaint atmosphere with a great mix of shopping. From arts and crafts to clothing for any age, shoppers can find their niche at one of the stores along Market Street.

One of the best parts about shopping in Wabash County is the personal touch customers receive. From alterations at The Corner, to custom jewelry at Smith Jewelers and Gottman’s Jewelry, Mt. Carmel has some of the best shopping in the area.

Guns and ammo, sporting goods, technology, and designer suits — Wabash County even has the stores men love to visit! Take a drive around the county, everyone is sure to find something they love.

Make sure to venture away from Market Street, and even out of Mt. Carmel’s city limits to find even more great stores. Wabash County is home to flower shops, consignment stores, specialty gift shops and more.

206 East 9th Street 618-263-3896 Mt. Carmel, IL.

Family Owned & Operated Since 1946

Community starts with neighbors who care.

Schonert Insurance Agency Inc. Dan R Schonert, Agent 510 Market Street Mt Carmel, IL 62863 Bus: 618-263-3313

That’s what our town is made of.

State Farm® has a long heritage of helping out in the community. That’s why I’m proud to support the Wabash County Chamber.

Get to a better State®.

Supplying Petroleum Products To Southern Illinois & Southern Indiana For 69 Years.

620 Oak Street Mt. Carmel, IL (618) 262-5181

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Events & Attractions The Chamber of Commerce sponsors several events around the county that are a must-stop for area residents. One of the biggest annual events is Ag Days. The festival is held along Market Street and features carnival rides, games, street vendors, food and entertainment.

The Chamber also sponsors an annual banquet to show appreciation for all its members.

The coveted “Business of the Year” and “Employee of the Year” are awarded at the event that features a delicious meal, door prizes, and entertainment.

Administrative Professionals are recognized at a luncheon held each year in April. It’s hard to say where many buinesses would be without these hard working men and women that “keep business going.”

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Events & Attractions

Many locals enjoy the annual Golf Outing sponsored by the Chamber. It proves to be a day of comradery, laughs, and of course, good old fashioned golfing, at the Mt. Carmel Municipal Golf Course.

Along with the festivals, outings and banquets held by the Chamber of Commerce, the group also hosts ribbon cutting events and grand openings for new businesses in town that join the Chamber. They also help promote Open House events for businesses celebrating anniversaries and other special occasions.

All graphics designed for the chamber by

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Protection

The Mt. Carmel Police Department and Wabash County Sheriff’s Office is just a call away when there is an emergency, request or question. The elite squad of men and women are prepared to respond to any situation.

Wabash County is part of Illinois State Police District 19, whose command post is located near Carmi, Ill. 911 services are ready 24 hours a day to take your call and help with emergencies.

Celebrating 27 Years of Pawning Debbie Cardwell and Kay Collins

Wabash County includes fire departments located in Mt. Carmel, Allendale, Keensburg, Bellmont, Browns, Little Wabash and West Salem.They have top-of-the-line technology, such as the new TurboDraft pump unit, to control fires and put them out faster. There are volunteer firefighters and emergency first responders that respond to emergency situations.

Things Not Adding Up?

Hocking & Brugger, PC

Owners

PAT’S PAWN

519 Market Street • Mt. Carmel, IL

618-262-4471

See Us For All Your Printing Needs

Kyle and Connie Day, Owners

1004 Landes Street Mt. Carmel, IL 62863

(618) 263-3936

Princeton, IN 47670

(812) 385-5624

Robert S. Hocking

Certified Public Accountant 331 N. Walnut St. • P.O. Box 206 Mt. Carmel, IL Phone: 618-263-4158 Fax: 618-263-3107

In-Home Support Services

1524 West 9th Street Mt. Carmel 618-263-4311 or 800-347-4311 www.addus.com Home & Community • Private Duty • Adult Day Services • Veterans Care

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Museum The Wabash County Museum, located at 320 N. Market Street in Mt. Carmel, is home to many interesting exhibits, including a wonderful collection of memorabilia, and a saddle from Brace Beemer, one of Mt. Carmel’s most famous citizens.

Other permanent exhibits include a five-foot-tall doll house, a 1905 homemade gasoline engine, and an 1885 Columbia Juvenile HiWheeler Bike.

The museum also features exhibits that change. They have been one of only a handful of sites that has been host to the Smithsonian traveling exhibit “Journey Stories,”

The museum’s hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, 2-5 p.m., or by appointment. For more information about the museum or for booking special tours, call 618-262-8774.

“The Wabash County Museum is dedicated to the preservation of local area history through preservation and conservation of artifacts and memorabilia. We offer rotating exhibits about local history, industry, local families and their way of life at 320 North Market Street. The museum has 5,000 square feet of public space for exhibits, meetings and research library, and is handicapped accessible.” — www.museum.wabash.il.us

David Miller, D.D.S.

High Tech with a Personal Touch

Wabash Valley Youth in Action, Inc. 400 N. Market St. Mt. Carmel, IL 618-263-4230

Bryce Miller, D.M.D.

Bright & Beautiful Smiles

~for the Whole Family~

• 325 E. 13th Street • Mt. Carmel, IL. • 618-263-6555 • www.cdcmtc.com

Events: Fall Festival4th Sunday of October

Programs: •Basketball •Rookies TeeBall •Fall and Spring Soccer •Flag Football •Volleyball

The Mission of Wabash Valley Youth in Action, Inc. is to work with parents, families, schools, and the community to promote and enhance the physical, mental and moral well-being of area youth.

Email: wvyouthinaction@hotmail.com Website: wvyouthinaction.org Like us on facebook: facebook.com/WVYouthinAction

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Dining A foodie can definitely find what they have a hankering for in Wabash County.

We boast some of the best home-cooked food around. From barbecue and good ol’ home cooking like grandma used to make, to steak and fish, you’re sure to find something good when looking for something to eat.

It doesn’t matter if you would like to dine-in, carry-out, or have something delivered, one of the Wabash County Chamber of Commerce members can lend a hand. And don’t forget when planning a big event, catering can be found right at your doorstep.

HARRIS

INSURANCE AGENCY

Get a FREE Quote @ harrisinsquote.com Home & Auto

Specializes in all forms of Insurance • Business • Life • Auto • Motorcycle • Home Owners • Health-Group Health • RV

Mike Harris, Agent 115 S.E. 2nd St. Fairfield, IL

618-842-4788

• Farm

• Home

Toll free: 877-262-7736 E-mail: harrisins@frontier.com

Sharon Blood, CSR Agent 231 N. Mulberry St. Mt. Carmel, IL

618-262-7735

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Historic Wabash County

Mt. Carmel’s

part in American history is diverse and interesting. A sense of that comes as visitors pass by the Wabash County Courthouse at 4th and Market streets and see the Soldiers’ Monument sentinel originally dedicated in 1906 and carefully restored and returned to its post in 2007 after organizers comissioned a restoration studio

out of Ohio to do preservation work on the unique statue that watches over main street.

Also near the courthouse is a solemn and beautiful black obelisk marble monument to the local veterans who lost their lives in war.

The weave of hometown Mt. Carmel into history includes T.S. Bowers, editor and publisher of the Mt. Carmel Register, who was active in forming Company G of the 48th Illinois Infantry and rose through the ranks to Colonel while serving under General Grant. Bowers was at Appomattox as Lee surrendered to Grant in 1865.

Even a drive by today’s Mt. Carmel Register location at 117 East 4th Street gives a sense of the community.

The Register moved into the Beauchamp Chapel structure in 1898 after the Methodist congregation built a larger, new sanctuary. Founded in 1839, the Register is one of Illinois’ pioneer newspapers.

Don Liddle

is another one of Mt. Carmel’s famous natives. Liddle played four seasons in the Major Leagues for the Milwaukee Braves, New York Giants and St. Louis Cardinals from 1953-1956.

The lefty played in 117 Major League games, 54 as a starting pitcher. In 427⅔ innings, he gave up 397 hits and 203 bases on balls, striking out 198. He retired from baseball after the 1957 season, which he spent in minor league baseball, returning back to Mt. Carmel where he spent the remainder of his years.

Brace Beemer

was born in Mt. Carmel in 1902 and, at 14-yearsold, became the youngest soldier in the American Forces. The family home was on North Market Street. Beemer’s best known role was as radio’s Lone Ranger.

Beemer assumed the network role as the Lone Ranger in April 1941 and was the voice of the American legend until the last new episode aired in September 1954. Beemer also appeared as the Lone Ranger in public appearances because station owner George Trendle felt that Earle Graser, the actor who played the part on the radio, did not look right for the part.

CEA-7501-A-A4

Being part of the community means

Southeastern Illinois Agency on Aging

I am proud to help people reach their goals.

516 N. Market St. Mt. Carmel, IL 62863 618-262-2306 or 800-635-8544

A voice for our seniors and persons with disabilities. Our agency, and your local senior centers, offer a wide variety of support to help you get services you or a loved one may need including: Senior Medicare Patrol – SMP –Prevention of Medicare Fraud Help with Medicare questions/prescription plans Caregiver Support Services – GAP funding Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Senior Nutrition – Congregate and Home Delivered Meals Home Care/Health – Shawnee Alliance and Effingham Sr. Services Transportation – Rides Mass Transit Legal Services – through our senior centers Adult Protection Services – Referrals to SWAN to protect vulnerable adults Ombudsman Program – To advocate for those in nursing homes Senior Employment Support – Help with resumes, job skills, job search VIP – Program for Veterans to remain in their homes

Respite Program for Caregivers Visit our Facebook page and website at seiaoa.com

Tim Phillips Financial Advisor .

1204 Oak St Mt Carmel, IL 62863 618-263-3899

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

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Chamber Directors

Lesley Hipsher

Toni Brines

David Easter

Ryan Masterson

Ryan Murrell

Brittany Campagna

Louise Acree

Terry Beckerman

Bridget Shepard

Gary Ritz

Sheryl Gottman

Susan Zimmerman

Rachael Smith

Kim Keepes

Doug Painter

Sally Voigt

Government

The Wabash County Board of Commissioners is responsible

for conducting Wabash County business.

The county commissioners meet the first and third Mondays of each month — unless there is a holiday. Then they meet on Tuesday.

The Wabash County Board of Commissioners includes Chairman Timothy Hocking, Robie Thompson, and Rob Dean.

County office holders include County Clerk Janet Will, Circuit Clerk Angela Crum, Resident Circuit Judge WIlliam Hudson, Sheriff Derek Morgan, Treasurer Beverly McBride, State’s Attorney Cassandra Goldman, Coroner Larry Hodgson, County Engineer Dustin Bunting and Supervisor of Assessments Deborah Gittings.

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The Mt. Carmel City Council meets every other Monday at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers at Mt. Carmel City Hall.

The council consists of Mayor Bill Hudson, Commissioner Eric Ikemire (streets, parks, and cemetery), Commissioner Rod Rodriguez (fire, health safety, City Hall, garbage and civil defense), Commissioner Justin Dulgar (water and sewer), and Commissioner Joe Judge (finance and senior citizens).

Other city officials and department heads include: City Clerk and Administrative Assistant Rudy Witsman, City Attorney Tom Price, City Inspector Mike Gidcumb, Treasurer Georgia Vaught, Comptroller Mick Mollenhauer, Chief of Police John Lockhart, Fire Chief Francis Speth; Streets, Recreation, Cemetery and Levees Superintendent David Easter, Water Plant Director Keith Reed, Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator Josh Peach, Water/Waste Water Maintenance Operator Bill Reed, Librarian Louise Taylor, Municipal Golf Course Manager Rick Bobbitt, Airport Manager Ken Wood, and Senior Citizens Director Tracy Dunkel.

Allendale, Bellmont, and Keensburg each have a village board

as well. Allendale meets the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m., Bellmont meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. and Keensburg meets the third Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., each in their respective village halls.

“Elks Care”

“Elks Share” elks715@frontier.com 618-262-4161

Swift Sanctuary is a fully furnished vacation home with everything you need to feel at home.

It can be rented by the night for $150.

Book six nights and the seventh night is Free!

702 Market • Mt. Carmel

226 East 5th Street • Mount Carmel, IL 618.262.5797 • swiftsanctuary@gmail.com

Elks No. 715

PO Box 715 • 219 N. Market St., Mt. Carmel, IL

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Sports Wabash County has been known through the years for its high school and collegiate sports teams.

Wabash Valley College has sent several baseball and basketball players into the professional ranks.

Seldom, if ever, has WVC not had a baseball player drafted by the major leagues.

Mt. Carmel High School is home to the Golden Aces and Lady Aces athletic teams. The MCHS football teams have made several trips to the Illinois High School Association State Championship Game. The school has also sent teams to the

aanndd n i n i e e m m o o C C tt oouurr u u o o k k c c e e h cc h cciiaallss!! e e p p S S y l y l k W Weeee k

State Championship in basketball for both the men’s and lady’s teams.

The volleyball, track, soccer and tennis teams have also shown great prowess in their respective sports over the past several years, claiming regional titles.

MCHS has also been growing its golf teams in both the men’s and lady’s divisions. Two gymnastics clubs are available in Mt. Carmel budding gymnists, as well as a martial arts dojo. Wabash Valley Youth in Action has youth sports and community events that are provided for area youth.

Ninth and Walnut • 618-262-4177 • Mt. Carmel, IL

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Wabash River

The Wabash River has been an important part of Wabash County’s history from the time settlers came to the area. A boat dock is conveniently located at the end of 5th Street, that is free for anyone to use. Also, with a proper Illinois Fishing License, anyone can sit and spend their day angling for some of the best catfish around.

The Wabash River has also served as a source of income throughout history. Mussels were harvested for many years, before it became illegal, and were exported around the world. There was also a button factory along its banks at one point in time that utilized the mussel shells to make beautiful conversation pieces for ladies and gentlemen of long ago.

Mundy Insurance & Real Estate Agency, Inc. Monday-Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm ROBERT E. MUNDY President 263-3131

Saturdays & Sundays by appointment KELLY SCHROEDER Managing Broker 263-3131

VERLIN SNOW Vice President 262-4223

400 Chestnut Street Mt. Carmel, IL

Phone: 263-3131

PAUL HOSMER Group Health Specialist

262-2708

DARLENE WILLIAMS CSR 263-3131

Life Group

Fire Casualty

We offer Complete Insurance Service For Business & Personal Insurance Programs AllState Anthem Bituminous Cincinnati

Blue Cross Blue Shield

BROKERS

Metlife Progressive St. Paul/Travelers Zurich

DANA MAGEE 263-8493

JOSH MORTLAND 263-8925

DAVE DARLENE UNDERWOOD WILDERMAN 263-7569 263-7795

LARRY PETERSON 262-5473

EMILY TEAGUE 262-8948

LAURA WILDERMAN 263-7795

ROSALIND NELSON WRYE 262-8353

Visit us at our websites www.mundyinsurance.com www.mundyrealestate.com

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Chamber of Commerce The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce is managed by a friendly, professional staff, who have been elected by the members. Chamber accepts a leadership role within the community and promotes and encourages businesses in all sectors of our economy to engage in a range of actvities to bring about commercial and economic growth. Whether you are a community member or just passing through, the Chamber of Commerce is a wealth of information.

The Chamber of Commerce:

• Serves as a resource of information to both new and established businesses • Organizes and oversees the annual Ag Days festival.

• Awards several $500 scholarships each year to graduates from Mt. Carmel High School through donors.

• Enhances sales by local merchants through the public sale of merchant gift checks.

• Provides ribbon cuttings and first dollars to new businesses opening in the community.

130 W 7th St | Mt. Carmel, IL | 618.263.3873

Taking Care of You and Your Family -

Infant, Children & Adult Immunizations WIC Supplemental Nutrition Program Lab Services Family Planning Services Drug Testing Foot Care Clinics

The following services are done at the Depot Counseling Center located at 1001 N Market, 263-4970

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Individual & Family Counseling Crisis Intervention Services DUI Evaluations Driver’s Risk Education Substance Abuse Treatment Mental Health Treatment

Medicare, Medicaid, and Insurance accepted for most services

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Friendsville Mine Located 5 miles West of Mt. Carmel

COAL

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find the provider that’s right for you AmbulAnce P: 618-263-6402

convenient cAre clinic P: 618-262-8621 Hours: Mon-Fri 6PM – 9PM Sat-Sun & Holidays 10AM – 10PM

DietitiAn consultAnt

lawrence P. Jennings, mD 1430 College Dr., Ste. A, Mt. Carmel, IL P: 618-262-5113 Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM – 5PM www.lpjenningsinternalmedicine.com Ketan vyas, mD 610 N. Court St., Grayville, IL P: 618-375-7101 Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM – 5PM

rADiology Hisham youssef, mD CT, Mammography, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, PET Scan, Ultrasound P: 618-263-6361

reHAbilitAtion services Cardiac Rehab, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, & Speech Therapy P: 618-263-6343

laura luecke, rD P: 618-263-6448

lAborAtory – cAP APProveD

emergency room

roy Kirchberg, mD P: 618-263-6317

P: 618-263-6363 Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

oncology/HemAtology

P: 618-263-6358

generAl surgery

maqbool Ahmed, mD P: 618-263-3700 Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM – 4PM

sleeP stuDy

richard oppeltz, mD 1430 College Dr., Ste. B, Mt. Carmel, IL P: 618-263-6190

internAl meDicine narendra Anadkat, mD Diane Destefano, AcnP-bc Wabash Primary Care Associates, PC 1123 Chestnut St., Mt. Carmel, IL P: 618-263-4376 Hours: Mon & Tu 8AM – 5PM Wed 7AM – 4PM Th 8AM – 6PM Fri 7AM – 4PM s. b. Jani, mD Alicia Kinsolving, PA-c 1106 Oak St., Mt. Carmel, IL P: 618-263-6575 Hours: Mon 8AM – 6PM Tu-Wed 8AM – 5PM Th 7:30AM – 4PM Fri 8AM – 5PM

ortHoPAeDics & sPorts meDicine Julko Fullop, mD, orthopaedic surgeon Justin miller, mD, orthopaedic surgeon Karsten slater, mD, cAQ-sm tori barnes, PA-c chelsea Hon, PA-c Medical Office Building 1527 College Dr., Mt. Carmel, IL P: 618-263-6400 Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM – 5PM 213 NW 10th St., Ste. E, Fairfield, IL P: 618-842-4180 Hours: Wed 8AM – 5PM 1112 Oak St., Carmi, IL P: 618-382-2222 Hours: Wed 8AM – 5PM

resPirAtory

s. b. Jani, mD P: 618-240-2740

sPeciAlty clinics CArDIOLOGy marlon Jordan, mD P: 812-471-0944 Hours: Th 8:45AM – 4PM GyNECOLOGy Herman l. reid iii, mD P: 812-753-5950 Hours: Wed 1:30PM – 5PM HEArING CLINIC All American Hearing P: 618-380-4077 Hours: Tu 9AM – 1PM PODIATry richard J. loesch, DPm P: 812-386-6750 Hours: Wed 8AM – Noon

1418 College drive, Mt. Carmel, iL 62863 | www.wabashgeneral.com | 618-262-8621 |