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(618)

from the

EDITOR

EDITOR Andrea Howe ahowe@mtcarmelregister.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Maegan Saalwaechter

Recipes for brides ... or babies!

PAGE 12

Happy Easter season, (618) Hometown Magazine neighborhoods!

We’re thrilled with the reception and feedback from readers about our first two editions. Keep your suggestions and comments coming! We have just one mission: To share good news stories about our neighbors, with our neighbors.

In this edition, (April is Autism Awareness Month) Corey Woolsey writes about the role local educators play in working with students on the autism spectrum.

Because April’s known for showers, Kim Bayless creates some perfect baby or bridal shower recipes!

Don’t miss Mona Warrick’s story about a local farmer’s trips from Centerville to Capitol Hill (Mr. Barbre goes to Washington!), or my report on the coming 100th anniversary of the Mount Carmel Rotary Club’s “service above self” works.

Evan Merrill’s got a great story about a unique event coming up in Albion, featuring a night with Jay Shidler. And Erin Zinzilieta-Pennington shares a little wisdom by way of the baking world.

Lancaster Christian School’s students give us their thoughts about Easter, and some of our neighbors at Wabash Christian Retirement Center pass along some gems of wisdom for readers.

Of course, we share our monthly calendar of events and athletes of the month. And, Michelle McPherson has a great list of Spring Break reading recommendations.

You’ll also find some throwback photos in columns from me and from Mona, of Easters past.

Find a little time to sit down and enjoy the reading...

Love and blessings to you!

CONTRIBUTORS Kim Bayless Michelle McPherson Evan Merrill Mona Warrick Corey Woolsey Erin Zinzilieta-Pennington

DESIGNER Sydney O’Hearn

TO ADVERTISE Courtney Shuttle courtney@pdclarion.com 812-220-4861

CONNECT WITH US Find us on Facebook (618) Hometown Magazine P.O. Box 550

Mt. Carmel IL 62863 618-263-1005

Andrea Howe Editor

Email: news@mtcarmelregister.com

Financial Services for every step!

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table of

CONTENTS

April 2020

PHOTO PROVIDED

7

SUCCESSFUL PATH Educators guide children on spectrum

14 CENTERVILLE TO CAPITOL HILL

Mr. Barbare goes to Washington

18 ROTARY CLUB MEMBERS

A century of service above self 24 BLONDE BOMBER

Basketball player benefits Hope Center

(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 3

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Your health is our focus.

That’s why the West Salem Rural Health Clinic is proud to provide world-class family medicine. And as a Carle afďŹ liate, we can connect you with additional specialty care as well. Our local clinic has three providers ready to serve your healthcare needs: H. Timothy Garrett, DO Gail Greathouse, APN Brandi Alvord, FNP-C Please call for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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Y L T C EGG-ZSATA L K KID

We asked students at Lancaster Christian School to name their favorite thing about Easter.

COMPILED BY: COREY WOOLSEY

Going Easter Egg hunting with my nephews.

Jacob Aidt, 6th grade

Spending time with family, especially when hunting Easter Eggs outside!

Mackenzie Horton, 4th grade

My favorite part of Easter is the Easter Egg Hunt.

Kole Castino, 2nd grade

Knowing we celebrate Easter because Jesus died and rose again on the 3rd day.

Rachel Barker, 6th grade

My favorite part of Easter is when I get to open presents.

Zachary Horton, 2nd grade

My favorite part of Easter is the eggs!

Zane Castino, 2nd grade

My favorite thing about Easter is hunting for eggs.

Kylie Arnold, 2nd grade

My favorite thing about Easter is candy!

Emma Carwile, 2nd grade

(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 5

Spring break good reads!

Spring break is just around the corner. And, what’s better than laying on the beach reading a good book?

My favorite genre happens to be psychological thrillers, but for the sake of spring break, I’ll also recommend a couple of fun romantics (or chick lit)!

THE LAST MRS. PARRISH

BY LIV CONSTANTINE

This is the debut novel of not one, but two, authors! Two sisters collaborated in the creation of this psychological thriller. I loved the format of this book. It is told in three parts by three different people, husband, wife, and home wrecker! When I began reading, I was in love with one character, but by the end, I had totally switched allegiances! This story is chilling and entertaining, and the ending is fantastic! That’s all I’m going to give you

about this one!

CROISSANTS AND JAM

BY LYNDA RENHAM

Annabel, the story’s lead character, is a walking disaster. She is all set to head off on a flight to meet up with her fiance and meet the in-laws, but the flight never happens. From there, one disaster after another happens! The book had me laughing from start to finish. I’ve read all of Lynda Renham’s romantic comedies. They are all great, funny stories. You can’t go wrong with this author.

THE KIND WORTH KILLING

BY PETER SWANSON

Let’s face it, every book wants to be the next Gone Girl, and I believe this one is… I’ve read this one is set to

become a motion picture. Murder is everywhere in this page turner. This is a guy meets girl, and they decide to kill the guy’s cheating wife. The novel is told from alternative narratives between the main characters. It switches between past and current timelines. I found myself rooting for the killer in this one! Maybe there really is “a Kind Worth Killing!”

RUMOR HAS IT

BY JILL MANSELL

I really enjoy this author. Instead of focusing on one main character, she has a whole cast. Her books read somewhat like a comedic soap opera. This one is a stor y about Tilly who has been dumped by her live-in boyfriend and ends up taking a position as a live-in Girl Friday.

Tilly’s new boss is a total hunk, but alas, he’s gay. Aren’t all the good

ones? But Tilly is not looking anyway… until Jack comes along. You can’t go wrong with a book by this author. I’ve read them all and this one just happens to be one of my favorites!

FRIENDS LIKE THESE

BY SARAH ALDERSON

We all know someone like this… per fect job, great par tner, good looks, money, and a love of flaunting it on social media. That “someone” is Becca, and Lizzie is becoming obsessed with her. Lizzie sends her friend, Flora, a gossipy message about Becca, or so she thought! She accidentally sent it to Becca! That’s when the trouble begins! This is definitely an author to keep an eye on!

You can’t go wrong with any of these books! Enjoy your Spring Break!

MICHELLE WARMACK MCPHERSON lives in Mt. Carmel with her husband. An avid reader, Michelle is a mother, and doting grandmother to three beautiful grandchildren. Michelle, a native of Grayville, has created a Facebook page dedicated to her favorite books!

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EDUCATORS GUIDE CHILDREN ON SPECTURM THROUGH A

successful path WRITER: COREY WOOLSEY

For parents of children with autism, the thought of sending a child Speech language pathologist Lisa Benedict

to school can be stressful. But many students find success and a path forward in schools of Wabash, Edwards and White Counties.

In Mount Carmel, Lisa Benedict works with a number of children at different learning levels from many locations.

Benedict, a speech language pathologist, works with students whose diagnosis or delay prevents them from learning in a general education class and a pull-out speech class is not enough.

“My classroom is called Communication Development and it was created by the Wabash and Ohio Valley Special Education District,” Benedict said. “This is not a nationwide thing. Depending on the student and the individual education plan, I do whatever academics that their speech or their language impacts.”

She also works on the student’s speech sound errors, language issues and social interaction issues.

“I can work on ‘th’ sounds 50 minutes added up throughout the day because we do it during spelling, we’ll do it during reading, during our social language group,” Benedict said. “What I like about it is that it is functional. That is how learning takes place when you are little, with trial

PHOTO BY: COREY WOOLSEY

and error and doing it repeatedly. I think there has been some great success, especially for children on the spectrum. While I expect the same out of them as I do others, I can modify my day because I have a smaller caseload.”

Benedict has six children she teaches this year in her class. She is assisted by Leeann Hering.

“She is incredible,” Benedict said. “I couldn’t imagine doing this without her.”

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Students in communication development class

that don’t just smack you in the face when you see it,

makes you feel really good. I am very lucky.”

are kindergarten through second grade.

The goal is to give children the communication

it’s a little harder for people to understand that they are not choosing to do this.”

In Edwards County, Carrie Wells heads up the Special Education program, and occasionally works

they need to get them into the general education population.

Benedict also expects her students to be accountable for their actions and she helps them

with students at Brownsville School in White County.

At Edwards County schools, students referred

Having a smaller group is beneficial for Benedict, because each child has a different IEP.

expand their social skill set.

“We started doing this incredible, emotional

for a special education evaluation are evaluated within 60 days of parental consent to the school district.

“I can’t group them at all,” she said. “None of them are doing the same thing. I teach six reading

ABCs program and we are talking about feelings and how it is OK to have strong feelings and weak

The special education evaluation team consists of a school psychologist, special education teacher, gen-

lessons a day.”

feelings and expressing in language terms what

eral education teacher, and other service providers

Many of the kids work in the same curriculum

those feelings are,” she said. “I am seeing amazing

deemed necessary to complete evaluations during

the school uses, with two children in first grade who are beyond the reading level of the first grade class-

things coming out. I have known most of these kids for two, three some of them four years and the lan-

jdentification of needed assessments. Additional team members may include: school social worker,

rooms. Some of those children are comfortable with the structure of the class as opposed to the general

guage that I am getting out of them and the reflection that I am getting out of them is just incredible.”

occupational therapist, physical gherapist, speech language pathologist, audiologist, visual needs

education class, which causes stress.

“But while I want them to be comfortable, I

She said it’s so important because a lot of people on the spectrum do not understand the subtleties of

instructor, and nurse.

The district provides students who receive IEP

want them to get back out there too,” Benedict said.

“Sometimes you have to push yourself to be a little

language.

Benedict finds everyday rewards in what she

services with related services and/or special transportation as documented in their IEP.

uncomfortable so you can continue to grow. You are going to have that the rest of your life.”

Beyond the expected work with language, Benedict works in other ways. “I really focus on acceptance,” she said. “Sometimes children on the spectrum, or children with communication issues have disabilities that do not stand out like other disabilities. Expectations might be different. I don’t change my expectations, I expect you to do the absolute best you can. With those more subtle disabilities

does.

“I absolutely love my job,” she said. “I love coming to work everyday. I think this is my 26th or 27th year here and I still love it. Every year I feel like I don’t know what I am doing, and with Leeann we trudge through and say ‘We got this.’ I just had a student who is now married with a child stop by a couple months ago to see me. He still calls me Miss Lisa and gave me a big hug. I still see some who are in their 30s message me on Facebook. That’s what

Students who require therapeutic off-campus special education placements as outlined in their IEP receive educational services at special education placements, such as the WOVSED Annex or Brownsville Attendance Center.

“We follow the guidelines we are required to follow by the State of Illinois,” Wells said. “For a student to become a special education student or a student that receives services, there is a process to follow to become eligible.”

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Life is like pie WRITER/PHOTO: ERIN ZINZILIETA-PENNINGTON Years ago I tried to make a lemon meringue pie from scratch. The first attempt was disastrous.

It was a bit soupy, the crust was soggy, and the meringue was gummy. I did what I normally do when things go wrong, I called my parents.

I explained to my mom what happened and she started questioning me about the ingredients, the process, etc. I am pretty sure we covered all the steps of the scientific method.

She said, “How long did you beat the meringue?” I didn’t really know.

Then she said, “Did you put the sugar in all at once or a little at a time?” Well, I dumped it in all at once.

Did I beat the meringue until it was stiff and shiny? Uh, I had no idea. She explained that I should beat it until it had stiff peaks that would stand up on their own once the beaters were removed.

Next, she asked me if I chilled the bowl I was

using in the refrigerator beforehand. Heck no, I had no idea I was supposed to do that!

She said, “Did you separate the eggs just right?”

Meaning there could be no yolk in with the whites, or shell either. I did do that part correctly.

On to the filling…how much corn starch did I use? I put in what the recipe called for, but apparently that was not enough.

Did I use a double boiler? I told her I did not own a double boiler. “That’s okay,” she said “your Grandmother didn’t have one either.” She told me how to place one pot inside the other as a substitute.

She asked if I boiled the filling nice and slow and constantly stirred it so it would not scorch? I sort of did that.

Did I remember to put in a pat of butter?

After I baked it what did I do? After it cooled off I put it in the refrigerator. Oh no! I committed a cardinal sin. You never ever put meringue in the

refrigerator that makes it gummy. You leave the pie on the counter…even if it weeps.

I understand why people buy frozen pies premade from the grocery store. I listened to what she said and then once I got my confidence up, I tried again, but I used a different recipe. I actually found a recipe by Charlie Daniels (the country singer) in Country Woman Magazine. I did exactly as the recipe said and used all of my Mother’s wisdom too and low and behold I made a perfect pie! It had mile high meringue and creamy lemon filling that was not too tart. I could not wait for my Dad to eat it. He always says, “Sissy, I only like two kinds of pie -hot and cold.”

Patience is typically not a virtue of mine. However, this experience taught me that life is like a pie. Sometimes you have to hang in there and keep trying until you meet success. Ultimately, all of your hard work and effort are worth the end results.

ERIN ZINZILIETA-PENNINGTON is a 2010 graduate of McKendree University and a 1994 graduate of Eastern Illinois University. She possesses a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education English. She has been an educator since 1994.

(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 11

April showers!

Tidbits appropriate for honoring bride or welcoming new baby WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER: MONA WARRICK RECIPES: KIMBERLY BAYLESS What better way to celebrate new beginnings than with an April shower!

April is the perfect time to fete a special bride-to-be, or welcome a tiny bundle of joy.

This year, Kim welcomes a new grandson in May, so her April menu is extra special!

Showers are the perfect time to showcase impressive finger foods and scrumptious tidbits that will make all shower attendees happy… even grandfathers-to-be!

Savory treats include: cucumber sandwiches; tortilla pinwheels; and super good veggie dip. Sweets include a family recipe for Buttermilk Cake and beautifully simple chocolate dipped strawberries! You’ll love the refreshing mock mimosa!

A traditional favorite finger food, cucumber sandwiches are savory and delicious with freshly chopped herbs adding a special zing. These are easy to make and can be enjoyed in a couple of bites!

cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 loaf of sliced bread (we used whole wheat bread).

Mix softened cream cheese and mayonnaise in small bowl until smooth. Stir in herbs, garlic powCUCUMBER der, salt and pepper.

SANDWICHES Spread cream cheese mixture onto bread 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 3 Table- slices. Layer cucumber slices over half of spoons mayonnaise; 2 teaspoons freshly the bread slices. If desired, top with more chopped dill; 1 teaspoon freshly chopped herbs. Top with remaining bread slices. chives; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; salt Cut off crusts. Slice each sandwich into and pepper to taste; 1 long, English three pieces

A New Chiropractor Offering A New Technique to the Tri-State!

Dr. Aileen Delacruz

“My chiropractic education was completed at the prestigious Sherman College of Chiropractic in Spartanburg, South Carolina in 2017. After graduation, I worked at a chiropractic office in Evansville, IN, which then led me to the Tri-State Clinic, where I worked with Dr. Tara Horrall before taking over the practice. I have been examined and licensed in both Illinois and Indiana.

While in chiropractic school, I served as the student representative for Sherman College’s Admissions Council, and did student teaching as an intern in the x-ray department at Sherman College’s Health Center. I completed additional coursework in Upper Cervical Advanced adjusting and the Activator Methods. I have also completed extensive studies in the Orthospinology technique, which is a gentle technique to align the upper cervical spine that enhances health, reduces pain, and eases chronic health problems and complex cases.”

ally I was liter n, D elacruz, ai to see Dr. n, leg pain, nec k p e m ca I ai “W hen is sues, ad bac k p in h I sk t. s, ar ie falling ap es s, allerg A IR LOSS! I d n umb n and H tingling an lock jaw, e, and , es su is n all the tim o ti ed es ss ig d stre even r as o w ct I o t, yd barely slep g depressed. M elin fe an e. eg Ib ts nm op erate o regular adjustmen ed wanted to d get ting as chang h te e ar lif st I re ti en I am Since rger y!!! acruz, my el su D d r. ee D n from nger ress, ter. I no lo I feel no st for the b et king medic ations, ain is p y M ta . er ed no long depre ss I am so nger feel dif ferent. and I no lo ! My entire life is e.” lif y m E! N in z gone -GO r. D elacru to have D e C. thankf ul

- E vangel

in

12 (618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020

229 W. 2nd St., Mt. Carmel (618) 262-2222

“I origin all I was ha y c ame to see D ving num r. bnes s in D elacruz b e c au sure wh se at w my finge rs “Wow, so as c ausing it, I was jus . I wasn’t me thing t li chiropra is really ke c ti w really en c exp erienc e at rong.” I had no all but m c ourage d me to y d augh my overa see Dr. D ter ll elacruz going nu health even b e for fore my mb. I wis fingers b h I would daughte e gan r th have lis tened to Sinc e s ta en. my rt my life h ing regular chir oprac tic as treatme level is a changed in so nts, m mazing!

My overa any ways . My e a n d my nergy shoulde r tightne ll achines s is b e n umb n e tter ss h s s in my fingers is as sub sided. T he c omple te - L inda L ly gone!“ .

A colorful crudité packs a delicious punch with a zesty homemade dip! The dip is easy-peasy and we guarantee you’ll love it!

VEGETABLES WITH SUPER GOOD VEGGIE DIP For your crudité (fancy word for veggie tray), use fresh, colorful vegetables. We used cherry tomatoes, snap peas, cauliflower, broccoli and carrots. Arrange veggies on a platter, saving a spot in the middle for your dip!

Kim shares the recipe for her Aunt Donna’s oft-requested White Buttermilk Cake. You’ll want to make an extra to have more, for you, after the shower! Trust us on this!

AUNT DONNA’S WHITE BUTTERMILK CAKE

Cream together: 2 cups sugar; 2 egg

whites; and ½ cup shortening. Sift together: 2-¾ cups flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; and ½ teaspoon salt. Add alternately with 1-¾ cups buttermilk, and add 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Pour batter into sheet pan and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

Cool.

Icing: combine 2-¾ to 3 cups of powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; and two egg whites. Boil 2 Tablespoons water and ¼ cup granulated sugar for 1 minute. Slowly blend with sugar and egg mixture. Add ½ cup shortening and 2 Tablespoons vanilla. Spread evenly onto completely cooled cake.

For the dip, thoroughly mix the following: 16 ounces sour cream; 16 ounces mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon seasoned salt; ½ teaspoon dried dill; ½ teaspoon worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon parsley; 1 tablespoon dried, minced onion; 3 to 4 drops hot sauce. Refrigerate before serving for best flavor.

Elegant, beautiful and oh, so simple, everyone loves chocolate covered strawberries!

CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES You’ll need fresh strawberries, stems intact; 6 ounces chopped semisweet chocolate (you may use chocolate chips); 6 ounces of white chocolate.

Turkey, roast chicken, or any favorite deli meat can be the star in colorful, tortilla pinwheels. Choose your favorite tortilla. We used spinach tortillas and roast turkey.

TORTILLA PINWHEELS Spinach, tomato, or any flavor soft, 8-inch tortilla; 8 slices of deli meat of your choice; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon dijon mustard; ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; lettuce.

Spread mayonnaise and mustard on tortilla.

Place deli meat on tortilla. Sprinkle cheese across center and add lettuce leaves. Tightly roll tortilla. Wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour. Repeat with remaining ingredients. When ready to serve, remove from refrigerator, unwrap, and cut into 1-1/2 inch pieces.

Each tortilla makes 10 pinwheels. Tip: for holiday treats, make these pinwheels with tomato and spinach tortillas for a festive appetizer!

Wash and dry strawberries, do not remove stems. Set aside. Pour 6 ounces of chopped, semisweet chocolate in a bowl. Microwave at half power for one minute. Stir, then continue heating until melted and smooth. Set aside. Line baking sheet with wax paper. Holding strawberry by the stem, dip strawberry halfway into the chocolate.

Allow excess chocolate to drip into bowl. Set dipped berries on wax paper. Place white chocolate in small bowl, microwave until melted and smooth. Dip a fork into the melted white chocolate and drizzle the white chocolate over the dipped strawberries.

Carefully remove strawberries from wax paper and place on serving tray.

You’ll love the refreshing mock mimosa! It’s a non-alcoholic take on the champagne and orange juice cocktail traditionally served with brunch. This drink is so tasty, you might add it to your weekend brunch menu.

MOCK MIMOSA 1 pouch low calorie, Tangerine/ Grapefruit drink mix; 2 cups cold orange juice; 6 cups cold club soda; 1 large, navel orange cut into 10 slices.

Mix together drink mix and orange juice in large pitcher until drink mix is fully dissolved.

When ready to serve, add club soda. Serve over ice and garnish with an orange slice.

(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 13

From Centerville to Capitol Hill,

MR. BARBRE GOES Growing up on his family’s farm in Centerville, Martin Ray Barbre knew he would never leave White County. As a young boy, he knew he would farm just like his father and grandfather before him. What he didn’t know was that one day he would be advocating for all of America’s agriculture producers from an office in Washington, D.C.

local

On April 30, 2018, Barbre received

USDA’s Illinois Farm Service Agency

a presidential appointment to ser ve

State Committee, “the vetting process

as Administrator of the USDA’s Risk

for the appointment was intense,” said

Management Agency (RMA). Since

Barbre. Officials came to White Coun-

then, his life has been a whirlwind

ty to talk with Barbre’s friends and

of travel, meetings, and splitting

acquaintances.

time between White County and the

In his role as administrator, Barbre

nation’s capital. “Agriculture is my

oversees 350 people, 40 of those are

life, and, I’ve always liked being in

based in Washington, D.C.“ The RMA

leadership positions,” said Barbre.

consists of three divisions, including

This position is the perfect fit for Bar-

compliance, insurance ser vices, and

bre.

the big team, based in Kansas City,

Despite the fact that Barbre was already known in Washington, as

which oversees program management,” said Barbre.

USDA Secretar y Sonny Perdue had

The RMA was created in 1996

previously appointed him to the

by the United States Depar tment of

Dailypecials!

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WRITER/PHOTO: MONA L. WARRICK

TO WASHINGTON Agriculture to ser ve American agri-

ican producers, including drought,

culture producers with effective, mar-

flooding, hurricanes, wind, disease,

ket-based risk management tools. The

and insects to name a few.” When

goal, said Barbre, “is to strengthen

it comes to disasters, the RMA has

the economic stability of agricultural

“boots on the ground,” said Barbre.

producers and r ural communities.”

“There is something going on ever y

The RMA is committed to increasing

week when American producers need

the availability and ef fectiveness of

our help.”

Federal Crop Insurance as a risk management tool.

Recalling a visit to the south in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael, Bar-

RMA manages the Federal Crop

bre said, “We saw 90 and 100 year old

Insurance Corporation “to provide

pecan trees, in pecan orchards, that

innovative crop insurance products

were ripped from the ground and on

to American farmers, ranchers, and

their sides. Generations of farmers

foresters,” said Barbre. “There are so

had tended these trees and they were

many disasters that can affect Amer-

gone.” The FCIC writes 560 dif fer-

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(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 15

ent insurance policies, including a “nut policy”

45, on the farm is my passion.”

which helped the pecan farmers.

was operating the combine and seeing little in

Federal crop insurance is essential to fam-

return. I could see the anxiety he was experi-

Barbre, who manages the FCIC and is on its

ilies in rural America, said Barbre. “My son

encing. When the adjuster showed him that

board, said, “We insure 130 different crops and

had been farming for eight or nine years when

Federal crop insurance would cover much of his

livestock species, and the program management

a severe drought hit in 2012. Day after day, he

loss from the drought, it took a big weight off

team writes 560 different insurance policies.

Barbre, a four th generation farmer, has a personal stake in the future of agriculture. He and his son, Brandon, are partners in Chestin Farms. They operate the 6,000 acre farm, growing corn, soybeans, wheat and grain sorghum, and specialty crops such as seed soybeans and white corn.

“I was lucky enough to farm with my father,” said Barbre. His father, who drove a tractor until he was 87, died in 2002 at the age of 92.

Following the death of his father, Barbre farmed alone before being joined by his son, Brandon.

“It’s important that my son’s generation continues to farm. It has to be financially viable for them to continue creating family farms,” said Barbre. “You can look around here, and in other places around the countr y, and you don’t see many farmers between the ages of 45-65. Keeping the farmers, who are now between 30 and

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Barbre and his wife, Gayla, share the historic Colonel Conger Home on Carmi’s Main Street. Colonel Ever ton Conger commanded the troops who captured John Wilkes Booth, the man charged in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. The Conger House was built in 1871. They share their home with two goldendoodles, Cash and Bristol, and Ellie, the chihuahua.

In addition to son Brandon, Barbre has a daughter, Misty Gwaltney, a teacher in Carmi.

He also has three step-children and 11 grandchildren.

The family farm is an American institution.

Anyone who has farmed for any length of time understands that agriculture is risky business. his shoulders. I know how vital RMA’s mission

to 2009. He has traveled across the United

According to the RMA, some risks are everyday

is to the people we serve. That’s why I’m here.”

States and internationally, working with many

business risks, while some are brought on by

Barbre has served in numerous agricultural

dif ferent regions and commodity groups to

natural disasters.

leadership roles in Illinois and on various com-

ensure the success of American agriculture. In

Pr oducers need to r egularly manage

mittees, including the National Corn Growers

2014, Barbre served as president of the Nation-

for financial, marketing, production, human

Association, Ethanol Committee, and the Illinois

al Corn Growers Association.

resource, and legal risks. “The goal, of the

Farm Bureau Young Farmers Committee. Bar-

A 1972 graduate of Carmi High School, Bar-

RMA, is to help farmers facing hardships,” said

bre served on the White County Farm Bureau

bre holds a degree in Ag Business from South-

Barbre. “We want the family farm to not only

Board, from 1979 to 1999, and again from 2005

eastern Illinois College.

grow, but thrive for generations to come.”

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A CENTURY OF

service above self WRITER: ANDREA HOWE Mount Carmel Rotary Club celebrates a 100year record of service to its community — and to neighboring communities as an instrument of expanding the mission of Service Above Self.

The club marks its 100th anniversary with a

a freight train. The Rotarians marched uptown for

for Mabel Courter Youth Foundation, polio erad-

a concert, banquet and dancing into the evening.

ication work, water wells in Africa, assistance to

The local club helped sponsor and organize clubs in Albion, Fairfield, Robinson, Crossville, Carmi, and other communities.

Shriners Hospital and disaster response aid.

Mainly, the Rotar y Club’s centur y of civic endeavors is about people.

celebration April 4 at Mabel Courter 4-H Center

But growing Rotary Clubs in Mount Carmel

“I joined Rotary so that I could be of service to

with Rotary International President Mark Malo-

and other communities wasn’t just for the parades

the local community. The bonus of Rotary mem-

ney as special guest.

and networking. It was the beginning of a record

bership is the benefit of associating with individ-

of community service seen in many ways locally,

uals of similar purpose and shared camaraderie,”

and beyond.

member Phil DeWolf says.

From its beginnings in Mount Carmel, an expanded sense of community was evident, according to the club’s history. Organized Feb.

Thanks to the Mount Carmel Rotar y Club

Mount Carmel Mayor Joe Judge said the Rota-

18, 1920 with 20 members, the club was formally

all Wabash County third graders have a dictio-

ry Club fosters lifelong friendships, and working

instituted March 26, 1920 by the Harrisburg Rota-

nary. With funds or labor provided by the club,

together as a club accomplishes community proj-

ry Club. Fifty-seven of Harrisburg’s 60 members

there’s a slide for the city pool, playhouse at the

ects that one person could not accomplish alone.

and their spouses traveled to Mount Carmel by

park, playground materials, ChromeBooks for

“As Rotarians, we always are looking for ways to

a special chartered train, bringing Harrisburg’s

students, a new softball diamond scoreboard,

get involved,” he said. “As Rotarians we believe in

Municipal Band to provide music for the celebra-

welcome signs, tuition to Rotary District Leader-

‘Service Above Self,’ which is Rotary Internation-

tion.

ship conference for high school students, college

al’s motto. As a public servant, that motto is the

There was a parade up Market Street to the

textbook stipends for some Wabash Valley Col-

core of my service to the community.”

Southern Railway Station, where everyone greet-

lege students, bell-ringing at Christmas, items

“What do I like about being in Rotary? I value

ed about 40 members of the Princeton Indiana

for the local library, veterans support, support

being a member of an organization that provides

Rotary Club, which arrived in a coach attached to

for summer lunch programs for children, support

humanitarian services, both locally and worldwide

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JANICE ALKA, ROBERT

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DEAN, AILEEN DELACRUZ, PHILLIP DEWOLF, WILLIAM EASTON JR., JOHN EVANS, JOSHUA

FARLEY, SHERRY FARRIS, WIL-

LIAM E. HACKLER III, PATRICK HARRIS, MARY HOLCOMB,

JAMES HOMAN, BILL HUDSON, and promotes high ethical standards,” said Larry

tion for me two important things: Polio Plus and

Tedford. “Fellowship and working with other

clean water. We bring hope to people living in the

members is important to me.”

third world. Rotary tries to make a difference.”

Jim Homan joined the club at the insistence of

“Rotary allows me to make a positive differ-

his neighbor, Forest Works, and found he values

ence in my community, the world and myself,”

the friendship connections forged within the club.

said Janice Alka. “Rotary provides a global net-

Rev. Terry Weavil said the club allows him to

working of like-minded people.”

be a part of making a difference in his community

“Our motto ‘Service Above Self’ is truly exem-

and the world. “Here in this community Rotary

plified in our club,” said Bill Easton. “If a Rotarian

offers to youth leadership training both in school

says he/she will be there to help, then he/she will

and during the summer. Look around Mt. Carmel

be there to help.”

and you will see how Rotary is trying to make a

Sandra Ward values the friendships and new

difference from the new sign welcoming people to

contacts made through the club, noting that the

our town, to the speed sign at schools reminding

club’s goals of doing good in the community

people to slow down, helping to keep our town

“match what I want to do in my life.” She said pro-

clean with a trash pick up day. At Christmas

grams highlighted at monthly meetings also help

Rotarians are there to help kids stay safe during

her learn more about the community and adds

Christmas Up Town and ser ving a wonderful

to her appreciation for other people and diverse

meal at Corn Day. Through the Rotary Founda-

vocations in Wabash County.

WILLIAM C. HUDSON, JOSEPH JUDGE, DONALD KENSELL, ALLAN J. KIDD, NANCY J.

MARSHALL, RICK MARSHALL, REESE METCALF, BARBARA

AND DAVID MILLER, ROBERT

E. MUNDY II, JEFF PERRY, AMY PETTYJOHN, BILL PRIEST, KIMBERLY AND MICHAEL REILLY, JAY PURVIS, KEVIN SCHUH,

JOY SHERMAN, GENE SIVERLY, CHRIS AND LAURA TAYLOR,

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(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 19

What Easter means to me WRITER/PHOTO: MONA L. WARRICK

Up from the grave He arose; with a mighty triumph o’er his foes; He arose a victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever, with His saints to reign.

He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!

dressing up in what my Grandmother Polly Cannon called our “Sunday best.” A new pair of tights and shiny, black patent shoes were always part of my Easter outfit. I recall the weather on Easter morning as crisp and almost always sunny. I was thankful for the tights under my Easter dress!

As part of a small family, we have never been overly traditional. Every Sunday, we ate out after church, Easter was no different. My brother and

This, the chorus of a well-loved hymn, is Eas-

at a Baptist Church in Lewisburg, Pennsylva-

I spent nearly every weekend with my grandpar-

ter. My grandfather, Bud Cannon, led the song

nia. When first published, in 1875, the song was

ents and we always attended church with them.

service at Crossville Missionary Baptist Church

called, “He is not here, but risen—Luke 24:5.” The

My mom, a nurse, often worked on holidays and

for decades. Up From the Grave He Arose was

hymn perfectly captures the spirit of the transition

Sundays.

always at the top of his Easter Sunday song list.

from Good Friday to Easter Sunday. This song,

Grandma Polly was an artist, and we always

Written in 1874, this ageless hymn recounts the

along with Shall We Gather at the River and Noth-

decorated eggs. The Easter egg hunts that fol-

resurrection of Jesus Christ with its famous, dra-

ing But the Blood of Jesus, are among Lowry’s

lowed were always much anticipated. To this day,

matic refrain. The stanzas describe Jesus Christ

most famous hymns and remain staples in the

Grayville’s beautiful park provides the perfect

“low in the grave,” followed by a rousing “Christ

Baptist Church.

place for children to hunt for eggs.

Arose!”

Fond memories of brightly colored dresses

In a recent church service, my pastor, Pastor

Robert Lowry, who held a doctorate of divin-

with matching hats, and my younger brother,

Ron, said Easter should be a Christian’s favorite

ity degree, wrote the hymn during his pastorate

Tad, in a bow tie, our Easter Sundays were about

holiday! Easter marks the time when Jesus sac-

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Tad and Mona Taylor in their Easter Sunday best

PHOTO PROVIDED BY: MONA WARRICK

rificed himself so that we could have eternal life.

His blood was shed to cover our sins. How blessed we are!

As an adult, and the wife of a deacon, the Easter season fills me with joy and hope. It’s a time to renew our commitments as we look forward to Spring, the season of rebirth. May you, and yours, be blessed beyond measure during this most holy of times.

MONA TAYLOR WARRICK, a native of Grayville, lives in Carmi with her husband and two furkids.

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PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: ANDREA HOWE

In my Easter bonnet WRITER: ANDREA HOWE I still have this dress, sweater and bonnet — my first Easter finery. I was almost 3

ter baskets. Mom saved them and refused them from year to year.

months old, still drooling on myself and not

I do know that her plans to save the bas-

at all capable of standing on my own two feet

kets are what prompted me to dump all my

when Dad propped me up by the elbows out-

Easter candy and eggs into a bread bag right

side our house in Maunie, so Mom could get

after the Easter Sunday church service.

this photo on April 2, 1961 with the Brownie camera Grandad George White gave her.

But I still don’t know WHY I thought it would be a good idea to go splashing

I don’t know what happened to the parasol purse and lacy cap that my sister Kay and I wore a few Easters later.

through the backwater, dragging that bread bag full of candy through it.

There are a lot of things I know about

I do know what happened to the frilly

my past Easter traditions, and some things,

socks I wore to complement the parasol

I repeat. Forty years after that shot of my

purse. I ruined them, tromping around in a

dashing dad in his snazzy hat and cowboy

muddy field picking up driftwood with my

boots proudly propping me up to stand near

cousins so Grandpa Martin Holtzclaw could

our house across the street from the Maunie

start farming. It was great fun, but I was in

Methodist Church, I have a photo of my

big trouble with my choice of footwear that

handsome husband standing on his sister

afternoon.

Martha’s porch in Albion, holding the little

I don’t know what happened to the “maxi” dress Mom made for me for my fifth

hands of our curly-headed Drew in his Easter suit that my mother bought for him.

grade Easter. They were all the rage! My

I still have that suit, too.

classmates and I all made plans to wear our

But better yet, I have two great images

maxis to school the same day, after the holi-

capturing the memor y of two great dads

day passed. Kickball on the playground was

standing over children, showing evident

an interesting sight that day.

love.

I do know that there’s a photo of me

It’s not lost on me that the love shown

wearing that maxi dress, sporting banana

in those photos is just a dim little glimmer

curls that I insisted Mom fashion so that

compared to the love of our Savior Jesus

I could look like “Miss Kitty,” the “Gun-

Christ. Knowing that, I don’t care if I have

smoke” saloon proprietress. I’m not sure

a bonnet or frilly socks or banana curls

how I thought a Miss Kitty hairdo would

for Easter, as long as my arms are lifted to

dovetail with Easter, but Mom humored me.

receive that greatest love of all.

I don’t know what happened to our Eas-

Stan and Drew Howe, Easter 2000

Have a blessed Resurrection Day!

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GET ON THE CALENDAR

APRIL CALENDAR

Community Events

Send community events for the April issue of (618) Hometown Magazine by Feb. 26. It’s a great way to spread the word, free of charge, to readers in Edwards, Wabash and White counties. Email us at: news@mtcarmelregister.com

EDWARDS APRIL 4 Albion Easter Egg Hunt

1 - 2 p.m. at Albion Courthouse Square Children ages 0 to 8 are welcome to participate in the hunts. Each age group has a prize egg. The Easter Bunny will be available for pictures after the hunt.

APRIL 11 An Evening with Jay Shidler, The “Blonde Bomber”

5:30 p.m. at Edwards Co. High School, 361 W. Main St. Albion Dinner catered by Jason Laws-Super Seven Sandwich Shoppe. Jay will be interviewed live, be available for pictures and autographs.

Go to ticketleap.com to purchase tickets.

WABASH APRIL 3-4 Mt. Carmel City Wide Yard Sales

* Event listings are on a first-come, first-served basis

contact David Rider at 618-383-6739, or Trish Pringle at 618-3831889. Concessions available. There will also be a half pot drawing.

APRIL 4 CWCHS Drama Club “Putting on the Ritz!” dinner-show, Elegance at the Elks.

7 p.m. at the Carmi Elks Lodge, 217 Cherry Street, Carmi Healthy You Weight Loss Support Group meets at First Presbyterian Church, 310 1st Street, in Carmi, every Friday at 9:30 am. For more information, contact Jane at 618-384-8013.

APRIL 5 Westwood Craft Fair

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 200 Koehler Street Grayville

APRIL 6-10 Spring Break

Carmi-White County and NCOE schools, no classes

APRIL 18

APRIL 16

Rockin’ for Shane

Mixer at The Attic

4:30 – 6 p.m. 426 N Market St. Mt. Carmel

APRIL 22 33rd Annual Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m. at Eagles, 724 Poplar St. Mt. Carmel

Shane Farris Memorial Jam Session at the Carmi VFW. Doors open at 4 p.m., $5 cover charge. Music, featuring Long Hard Road, Audio Pilots, and Six to Midnight, begins at 5 p.m.

MAY 1-2 One Niter!

C-WCHS Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2.

APRIL 28 Diabetes support group

6:30 p.m. Wabash General Hospital 1418 College Drive Mt. Carmel

WHITE APRIL 3 Wear Blue Day!

Show your commitment to preventing child abuse. Wear prevention blue and send pics to #GreatChildhoods, #GoBlueIllinois, or to jgoeckner@pcaillinois.org.

APRIL 4 Dodgeball Tournament for Relay for Life

In the old Crossville High School Gym. Team sign-in begins at 1 p.m., followed by play at 2 p.m. Doubleelimination tournament with junior and adult divisions. Trophies awarded for first and second place teams. For more information,

MAY 2 Opening Day for Summer League Baseball Carmi, Bradshaw Park

JUNE 6 2020 Survivor Dinner Relay for Life of White County

Saturday, June 6 at 6 p.m. at Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 203 Edgewood Lane Free to all survivors and a guest!

JUNE 12 2020 White County Relay for Life

6 – 10 p.m. at Carmi-White County High School.

(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 23

BLONDE BOMBER appearance benefits Hope Center WRITER: EVAN MERRILL Just like any other day, avid sports fan Mark Wells and Steve Smith, were discussing the rollercoaster that’s been this year’s NCAA men’s basketball season.

As Wells and Smith conversed on the havoc, the mess that’s been this year for teams across the country, an idea surfaced in Wells’ head.

Wells, founder of Detours 2 Destiny Productions Inc., had listened to a podcast by Pastor John Collins of Collins Ministries just a couple years back. Collins’ guest on the episode? Southern Illinois basketball legend Jay Shidler.

Shidler, who lives in Lexington, Kentucky, starred at PHOTO PROVIDED

Lawrenceville High School, scoring 2,183 points in his career as an Indian and leading Lawrenceville to a state title in his sophomore season. Nicknamed the ‘Blonde Bomber’ due to his knack for scoring the rock and his bleach-blonde hair, Shidler wreaked havoc on opponents, often drawing sold-out crowds to Lawrenceville.

Shidler played University of Kentucky basketball under Joe B. Hall, successor to ‘The Baron of the Bluegrass’ (Adolph Rupp). As a Wildcat, he scored 733

EVAN MERRILL is a 2016 graduate of the University of Kentucky, where he graduated with a bachelor of art degree in journalism. Evan’s from the Northern Kentucky area. He has worked as sports editor of The Mount Carmel Register since August 2018.

points and was a member of the 1978 National Championship team. Due to injuries, his pro basketball aspirations faded, but the legacy of the Blonde Bomber lived on.

The podcast lit an idea in Wells’ head. Shidler doesn’t return to Southern Illinois often, so Wells wondered, perhaps they could organize something to bring him

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back to his grassroots.

college, to your adult years and all learn different

which Smith runs. Wells explained they launched

Smith agreed, and arrangements were under-

aspects of life. I think that’s what this is going to all

a new program at The Hope Center to help infants

way to return the Blonde Bomber back to the area.

be about, just to follow him as far as his high school

and children, with varying needs such as clothes,

Wells’ friend, Randy Olsen, interviewed Shidler

career and what it is today to live by faith and be a

diapers, formula and other necessities.

in 2018 on Wayne City’s 99.9 The Vine Radio pro-

Christian in today’s world. I can’t wait to hear him

gram, so it didn’t take long to reach Shidler, who

speak, it’s going to be a lot of fun,” he said.

agreed to make the appearance.

“It’s to help young mothers who may struggle to provide for their newborn, just to help them with

“Whether they come for the meal or just to

diapers, formula, anything you need for infants and

He’s the featured speaker at Edwards County

hear him speak — we hope they’ll come and listen

children at a young age,” Wells explained. “That’s

High School in Albion on Saturday, April 11, fol-

because a lot of these kids don’t know who Jay

what we’re going to use the proceeds for.”

lowing a dinner catered by Super Seven Sandwich

Shidler is, unless they’ve read about him or heard

Judah First Band of Mount Vernon also per-

Shoppe in Albion.

of him. To flashback to the mid-70s and talk about

forms, and tickets for either both the dinner and to

Following the dinner, Shidler will talk about

how he crossed the half-court line and could shoot

hear Shidler speak or just to hear Shidler speak are

his faith, growing up in Southern Illinois and how

a basket from the half-court line for nothing but

available. Tickets for both are $20 each (ask about

today’s athletes can be role models, regardless of

net, it’s amazing and it’ll blow some of these guys’

group ticket discounts), while tickets for speaker

the sport they’re competing in.

minds out of the water. How in the world was he

only are $12.

A Q & A session is also planned for the audience.

It’s a perfect opportunity for young athletes

able to do that and the records he would have

Doors open for the dinner at 5 p.m.,and for

accomplished if they had the 3-point line in the

the speaking event at 6:30 p.m. Tickets may be

‘70s?”

purchased at goodconcerts.com, at Doug Hor-

to expand their sporting knowledge, learn from

Wells hopes to have a great deal of Shidler’s

tin-Country Financial Insurance or Citizens Nation-

someone who was a champion and successful at

Lawrenceville memorabilia to display at the event,

al Bank in Albion, as well as four locations in Fair-

every level he played at. For anyone fortunate

and also have a signing session where Shidler can

field (Fairfield National Bank, Doug Aman-State

enough to witness Shidler’s playing days, it’ll be a

sign any memorabilia or take photos with fans. He

Farm Insurance, Fairfield Banking Company,

blast from the past.

will also bring his own glossy photos to sign and

Carter Turf & Tractor). Tickets will be available

sell.

leading up to the dinner, but interested parties are

“No matter if you were a basketball fan in the mid-late ‘70s or you’re a basketball fan now, I think those in attendance will learn how it was playing

But most importantly, contributions from the dinner benefit an incredible cause.

back then to how it is now playing today,” Wells

Some of the proceeds from the event are direct-

said. “We all grow up from a high school age to

ed to The Hope Center in Albion, an organization

encouraged to purchase ahead of time to secure their spot.

For more information, call Wells at 618-5998698.

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spotlight:

ATHLETES

SUBMIT YOUR ATHLETE High school athletic directors in Edwards County, Wabash County and White County are invited to feature an athlete every month in this ongoing (618) Hometown Magazine feature. Send us an email at:

emerrill@mtcarmelregister.com * Compiled by Evan Merrill

CARMI-WHITE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR ETHAN MAHON Ethan just finished up his senior season in basketball and had a fantastic year. He scored his 1,000th point in late January and was named to the All-Conference team in recognition of his outstanding season. As a junior, he was the DuQuoin Tip-off Classic Tournament MVP, as well as All-Conference and All-Southern Illinois. As a senior, he was named AllConference again and made the All-Tournament teams at the DuQuoin Tip-off Classic, Eldorado Holiday Tournament, and the Carmi Invitational Tournament. He will pursue a college degree upon graduation.

MOUNT CARMEL HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR ADDISON DRONE Addison is a senior at Mount Carmel High School.

Addie has been a four-year starter for the Lady Aces softball team. She hit over .400 as a freshman, showcasing her amazing bunting ability. The last two years, she has become an all-around player. She plays great centerfield, while also getting on base and using her speed on the basepaths. Addie was a three-year varsity starter on the Lady Aces volleyball team, and captain her senior year. Addie is the president of the National Honor Society and Student Council. She is also co-president of Aces for Christ. She will be attending SIU-Edwardsville in the fall.

For professional assistance with your tax and accounting needs

NANCY J. WINTER Certified Public Accountant

221 East Cherry Street ✦ Carmi, Illinois 62821 Tel: 618.382.2364 ✦ Fax: 618.382.2836 nancy@nancyjwintercpa.com

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SENIOR CHAT: LESSONS IN LIFE WELL LIVED

WRITER: ANDREA HOWE

PHOTOS BY: ANDREA HOWE

Left: Noelle Brown | Right: Norma Rouseau and Norma Nelson What’s a good way to live life? Friends and

Mary Winter, 94, says being able to commu-

ginia as a World War II bride. She married her

neighbors at Wabash Christian Retirement Cen-

nicate with people is helpful. She applies most

husband three weeks after she met him, and

ter in Carmi have a common theme for good

of her farm living experience and says the best

never regretted a minute after that decision, she

living.

way to live a good life is to just go about doing it.

said. “My husband’s mother was like a mother

What advice would she have for younger

to me,” she says just shortly after her son came

Noel Browne, 69, says he reads a lot. “I try

•••

generations? “I think it would be to just think

for a visit. “While she didn’t think twice about

to help people,” he grins. “I guess I’m a peace-

twice before you do something drastic,” she

marrying her husband, Aud says that her advice

maker. I always try to be happy and have a kind

says.

younger generations would be: “When they

word for anybody.”

••• •••

make a decision, they should think on it.”

Pauline Aud, 92, came to the area from Vir-

••• Norma Nelson, 82, has a few tidbits of advice. “I don’t give it (age) the time of day,” she says, for one thing. And she passes along some food for thought she shared with a grandchild: “Get your life in order and do everything that’s right for you. Just keep on the trail you’re on.

If there’s something you disagree with, let it be known and just go on your own.”

••• Norma Rousseau, 84, says thinking about age is one thing to forget about. “I’m not old. I don’t think any of us are. We are just as old as we think we are.” Her best advice? “Mind your own business, be friendly and good to ever ybody and they’ll be good to you.”

Mary Winter and Pauline Aud

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28 (618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE APRIL 2020

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