find the provider that’s right for you Ambulance P: 618-263-6402
Convenient Care Clinic P: 618-262-8621 Hours: M on-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: M on & 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: M on 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 |
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 3
Table of Contents
Agriculture........................12 Banking............................25 Chamber of Commerce..29,30 Churches..........................5,6 Community........................4,5 Organizations....................4,5 Doctors & Physicians.........28 Education..........................8,9 Entertainment.....................21 Fire Departments...............15 Health Care...................22,28 History................................33 Hunting..............................18 Industry...............................13 Insurance Investments........................25 Law Enforcement...............14 Legal Service.....................28 Legislators..........................27
Library................................11 Local Government.............32 Marriage............................10 Media.................................14 Museum.............................10 Performing Arts..................24 Pet Care............................20 Polling Places....................26 Post Offices.......................19 Public Library.....................11 Recreation..........................21 Senior Citizens...................23 Special Events...................17 Taxes................................26 Transportation ...................31 Utilities & Services.............16 Voter Registration..............26 WEMA...............................16 Youth Organizations.........7,8
The annual Guide to Wabash County is produced by the Mount Carmel Register, a proud member of the TriState Media Group.
Wabash County welcomes you
Situated along the scenic Wabash River, the County of Wabash, Illinois was once a part of Edwards County. The first Edwards County seat was Palmyra, located on the Wabash River, just north of the mouth of Crawfish Creek. On April 10, 1821, the county seat was moved to Albion. The county clerk was from Albion and he took the public records with him. A militia was raised in the eastern part of the county to march on Albion and reclaim the records. The battle was called “Blood in the Moon.” At that time the county was divided; Wabash County east of the Bonpas Creek and Edwards County on the west. Today, these counties are the smallest in the state, being roughly half the size of other counties in Illinois. On Dec. 27, 1823, Wabash County was born. The first county seat in Wabash was not Palmyra or Mount Carmel, but Centerville. In 1829 the county government moved to Mount Carmel — where it has remained to this day.
Helping. Insuring. Advising. Representing clients across Southern Illinois and Southern Indiana, Health Insurance Associates can save you time and money!
Call Us Today for a FREE Quote!
Office: 618-263-4200 | Toll Free: 888-263-4200 2002 College Dr. | Mt. Carmel, IL
Page 4 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Serving Wabash County
American Red Cross The Wabash/Edwards County American Red Cross Service Center is a humanitarian organization led by volunteers. They provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare and respond to emergencies. The American Red Cross provides four primary services in the community. They provide hope and help to local disaster victims; bring life-saving blood products to local hospital patients; train individuals in the community in lifesaving skills such as CPR, first aid, water safety and HIV/AIDS education and provide emergency communication and aid to service men and women and their families. The local office is located at 823 West 9th Street (WADI building). Individuals needing information or assistance can call 618-2628163 or 618-240-1840. The
Judge Phillip Benefiel. It was initiated under a Volunteers in Probation program in Lawrence County in 1971. In 1973, Wabash and Crawford counties joined the organization, changing the name to Cra-Wa-La. In 1997, the group was granted a contract with the Illinois Department of Human Services to provide community service to 13 southern Illinois counties. The purpose of Cra-WaLa Community Services programs is to assist and support community representatives in organizing their areas to better meet the needs of local youth and families. Cra-Wa-La believes in motivating community residents to unite and labor together in meeting the needs of their youth and family units. The group also contends that active involvement from a community’s own residents will make a noticeable difference.
Service Center manager is Chester Miles of Wabash County. Valerie Goodwin is the regional disaster and program director. www.redcross.org/icac CRA-WA-LA Cra-Wa-La Community Services, a division of Cra-Wa-La VIP, Inc., prides itself in “...making a difference.” The organization provides many services, including assistance in forming community committees, grant application assistance, referrals to existing service programs and assistance in realistic long and short-term goal-planning. Some community service programs which the group sponsors include afterschool programs, summer food and activity programs and community youth center development. Cra-Wa-La’s community service sector originated under the leadership of
The Cra-Wa-La Community Services Administrative Office is at 1300 15th St, Lawrenceville, IL 62439 (618) 943-5326 The executive director is Marie Goff. www.crawalavip.org/ Southeastern Illinois Centers for Pastoral Counseling SICPC is a not-for-profit agency that provides individual, marriage and family counseling. The centers are dedicated to the overall mental and spiritual health of each community through this professional ministry. A board of directors representing the various communities in which the centers are located governs SICPC. The center sets fees for services on a sliding fee scale based on one’s income and size of family. For more information, contact SICPC Therapist Brenda Knuckles, MAMFC, LCPC, at 618-262-5921.
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
DARLENE UNDERWOOD 263-7569
JOSH MORTLAND 263-8925
LARRY PETERSON 262-5473
DAVE WILDERMAN 263-7795
LAURA WILDERMAN 263-7795
Visit us at our websites www.mundyinsurance.com www.mundyrealestate.com
EMILY TEAGUE 262-8948
ROSALIND NELSON WRYE 262-8353
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 5 Wabash Family Counseling Center The WFCC, located at 602 East Fifth St., Mount Carmel, is treatment center primarily focused on mental health and substance abuse. It is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Ph. 618-262-7473. Wabash Area Development, INC. Wabash Area Development, Inc. (WADI) is a notfor-profit community action agency. The Wabash County office is located at 823 West 9th Street in Mount Carmel. WADI provides an array of services to income eligible individuals from birth on up. WADI has offices in Wabash, Wayne, White, Hamilton, Gallatin, Saline and Edwards counties. WADI involves several different service areas, including Head Start/ Early Head Start, LIHEAP-Energy Assistance, family and community training site, weatherization program, food pantry and commodities, economic development business loans, Uniform Assistance Program, scholarship program, Illinois Employment & Training Center (IETC), Workforce Investment Act and more. The 22-member WADI Board of Directors is comprised of three representatives from each of county in the sevencounty service area, plus the Head Start Policy Council Chair. Debbie Meyer serves as county manager for Wabash County. Contact WADI for more information on available programs at 618-262-4151. http://www.wadi-inc.com/ Wabash County Ministerial Association The Wabash County Ministerial Association meets the first Wednesday of each month — except in the summer months — at the Wabash General Hospital board room. It is a group of local ministers working together for a better community. The association works in conjunction with WADI. Some of the projects they conduct
jointly are the School Supply Assistance Program, which provides school supplies for children in need; Operation Share, which provides food baskets at Thanksgiving, plus baskets and gifts for children and families at Christmas; and they supply food yearround through the Food Pantry. Some events traditionally sponsored by the Wabash County Ministerial Association include the National Day of Prayer service; Community Good Friday service; Community Thanksgiving Service and football breakfasts. The association provides an on-call chaplain for Wabash General Hospital. It has two funds that help support people in need. The Benevolent Fund helps people pay their bills, rent and heating costs. The Transient Fund is for people passing through the area, providing a place to stay, supper and a breakfast voucher. Wabash County Soil & Water Conservation District The Soil & Water Conservation District office is located on 219 West 9th Street, Mount Carmel. The conservation district takes available technical, financial and educational resources and focuses or coordinates them so that they meet the needs of the local land user for conservation of soil, water and related resources. They sponsor a 4-H conservation award, photography award and Junior Fair conservation award; Arbor Day, when third graders plant pine trees; an Evirothon; and the fourth graders’ field trip to Beall Woods. The SWCD also sponsors the Wabash County Ag Literacy Program. Other functions they provide include survey and design of conservation practices, and implementation of the Conservation 2000 Cost Share Program. If you want trees, fish, white marking flags or Forest Trees of Illinois books, they are on sale at the office. Phone 618-262-4962, ext. 3.
University of Illinois Extension University of Illinois Extension is helping residents “put knowledge to work” throughout Southern Illinois. With a tradition that goes back more than 80 years, University of Illinois Extension is committed to providing educational programs that help people make their lives better, easier, safer and more rewarding. The University of Illinois Extension program partners with local groups that help people and communities meet their most pressing needs. The resources of the University of Illinois are used frequently. Extension education programming begins with local volunteers who make up Extension councils that serve one or more counties. Council members monitor community needs and look for ways to help area residents and communities address complex local issues. Council members team up with local Extension staff members to plan educational programs that draw on resources from the
Urbana-Champaign campus, as well as other Extension staff throughout the state. Statewide groups, such as professional associations and agricultural commodity organizations, also play active roles in the Extension’s program development process. Extension educational programs are offered in four broad areas: 4-H/ youth development, family and consumer sciences, community and economic development, and agriculture and natural resources. The programs are as diverse as the people of Illinois. Adam Feig is the County Extension Director for the five county area: Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash and Wayne. The Wabash County office is located at 738 North Market St., Mount Carmel, IL 62863. Phone 618-262-5725 FAX: 618-263-3370. Hours of operations are Tuesday through Thursday from 8 a.m.-noon and 1-4:30 p.m. www.web.extension.illinois. edu/elrww.
Looking for a higher level of service from your accounting professional or consultant? With professionals at 24 offices in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, & California, Kemper CPA Group, LLP is here to help. Income & Estate Tax Planning Business Valuations - Auditing Bookkeeping - Payroll 631 North Market Street • Mount Carmel, IL kempercpa.com • 618-263-3888 rmasterson@kcpag.com
Page 6 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Area Churches
Apostolic First Apostolic Church Rev. Paul McGee, Pastor 1121 Cedar Street Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 262-2487 Baptist First Baptist Stephen Freels, Senior Pastor 130 W 6th St., Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-263-6563 www.fbcmtc.org
First General Baptist Gary Underwood, Pastor 120 West 12th St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-263-3477 Grace Memorial Baptist Ray Anderson , Pastor 803 Broadmoor Dr. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-4222 Christian Bellmont Christian Daniel Webb, Minister 103 Persimmon St. Bellmont Church Ph.: 618-375-7579
First Christian Church Robert Harting, Minister 2nd & Oak streets, Allendale Church Ph.: 618-299-5511 Keensburg Christian Alan Wright, Minister 4th and Main Keensburg Church Ph.: 618-298-2249 Lancaster Church of Christ 6484 Highway 11 Lancaster Carl Hasselbring, Minister Church Ph.: 618-299-2111 Parsonage: 618-299-6871 Lick Prairie Christian Steve Williamson, Minister R.R. 1, No. 1 Mount. Carmel Home Ph.: 262-5570
Parkview Christian Mark Richison, Senior Minister Route 1 North Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 262-4325 www.myparkview church.com Church of Christ Mount Carmel Church of Christ Bobby Smith, Minister 2400 North Cherry St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-7668 www.mccoc.org
Wabash Valley Church of Christ Patrick Dwyer, Pastor 230 Poplar St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-2797 jesusthewayonline.org Church of God Community Church of God (Home of Wee Kare) Matt Richardson, Senior Pastor 1532 College Dr. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-263-3561 Wee Kare Ph.: 618-262-7960 mountcarmel communitychurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Meetings held at the Vincennes Ward 1984 N. Old Highway 41, Vincennes, Ind. Bishop Ryan James Lough Office: 812-882-4022 Mount Carmel Area Contact
Summers, Co-Pastors 803 Market St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-7331 fccmc@frontier.com Website: fccmc.net Barney’s Prairie Christian Church Rev. Ray Culver, Pastor Friendsville Episcopal St. John the Baptist Rev. Brant Hazlett, Pastor 600 Mulberry St. P.O. Box 674 Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-7382 Free Methodist Free Methodist Church Deron Colgan, Pastor 412 Poplar St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-7877
Free Methodist Church Pastor Steve Destefano R.R. 2, Cowling
Lutheran Hope Lutheran Church (Missouri Synod) Thomas Kramer, Pastor 1512 Cherry St. Mount Carmel Home Ph.: 618-262-7373
Zion Evangelical Lutheran (ELCA) Rev. Karen McNeill-Utecht, Pastor 703 Market St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-5583 www.zionmtcarmel.org Nazarene First Church of the Nazarene Rev. Lloyd Simpson 218 West 7th St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-5778 Non-Denominational Bethlehem New Light Church Steven Potts, Pastor 300 North Road & Helena Lane, Sumner
Sunday Morning 9:00 - Bible Study 10:00 - Praise & Worship and “E StrEET” 10:00 - Children’s Worship
Sunday Evening 6:30 - Worship & Bible Study
“Everywhere, Every Day, Every Member on a Mission.” Stephen Freels, Pastor
Congregational Christian Union Mission Church Rev. Tim Bobbitt East Mount Carmel, IN. Church Ph.: 262-7409 Disciples of Christ First Christian Church Rev. Jim Summers and Rev. Jackie Meece
118 W. 6th Street 263-6563 Mt. Carmel, IL Visit Our Website: fbcmtc.org
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 7 Hope Fellowship Church Daniel Moore, Pastor Crystal Building 123 West 4th St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-7292 The Lighthouse Rev. Charlie Wall, Pastor Hwy. 1 Patton Church Ph.: 618-262-7190 Jacob’s Well 5 Southgate Drive Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-263-0778 Pentecostal Full Gospel Tabernacle Rev. Caleb G. Bond 1210 Landes St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-5926 House Ph: 618-262-4271
Gospel Kingdom Church Rev. John F. Peach, Pastor 1440 West Third St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-8278 Heartland Worship Center Rev. Tony Hodgson, Pastor 212 W. 2nd St.
Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-262-4268 Pentecostal Faith Assembly Bill Reed, Pastor Assistant Ps. Jesse Kasinger RR #1 Mesa Lake Rd. Friendsville Church Ph: 618-262-6799 Presbyterian First Presbyterian Church Bailey Pearson, Pulpit Supply 530 Mulberry St. Mount Carmel Home Ph.: 618-299-2481
Wabash Presbyterian Church at Orio Kevin McGinnis, Pastor 11188 N, 2300 Rd., Allendale Church Ph.: 618-299-3341 oriochurch.z33.us Roman Catholic Our Lady of Mount Carmel (St. Mary’s Catholic Church) Rev. Robert Zwilling, Pastor 127 W. 5th St. Mount Carmel Parish Office: 618-262-5337 stmarysparish.net
St. Sebastian Catholic Church Rev. Robert Zwilling, Parish Pastor 4921 N. 1400 Blvd. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-298-2589 United Church of Christ Frieden’s United Church of Christ Rev. Joseph Foster 8739 E. 270 Rd. Mount Carmel Home Ph.: 812-477-0711 United Methodist Adams Corner Ed Davis, Pastor 20100 East 1300 Rd., Allendale
Allendale United Methodist Church Deetta Gaither, Pastor Allendale Church Ph.: 618-299-6131 Asbury Chapel United Methodist Vaughn Courter, Pastor Outer College Drive Mount Carmel Bellmont United Methodist Vaughn Courter, Pastor Bellmont, Ill.
Evangelical United Methodist Rev. Jeremy Henson, Pastor 2010 North Cherry Road, Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-263-6561 Lancaster Zion United Methodist Rev. Tom Hanzel and Rev. Patti Hanzel, Co-Pastors Lancaster Nye Chapel United Methodist Rev. Tom Hanzel and Rev. Patti Hanzel, Co-Pastors Mesa Lake Road, South Pleasant Grove United Methodist Rev. Tom Hanzel and Rev. Patti Hanzel, Gene Seals, Co-Pastors West of Lancaster Trinity United Methodist Rev. Ed Davis, Pastor 512 Mulberry St. Mount Carmel Church Ph.: 618-263-3455 tumoffice@yahoo.com www.MtCarmelTrini tyUMC.org
Youth Organizations
Wabash County 4-H Several 4-H clubs are active in Wabash County. The 4-H year starts in September and ends in late summer, and the Wabash County 4-H Fair is
typically during the last week of July. Wabash County 4-H is a voluntary, educational program designed to meet the needs
and interests of boys and girls ages 8 to 18. Children ages 5 to 7 can join the Cloverbuds. Participation and membership are open to all children and teens. Its purpose is to provide learning experiences and opportunities for boys and girls which will help them grow and develop their fullest potential. Projects, programs and activities are tools used to help members gain important life skills. The University of Illinois Extension 4-H Youth Development program helps youth learn skills for living. For further information, call the University of Illinois Extension Office at 262-5725.
Boy Scouts Boy Scouts of America was incorporated in 1910 chartered by Congress in 1916. Its purpose is “to provide an educational program for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness (www.scouting.org).” Local Council Scout Troops in Wabash County are served by the Buffalo Trace Council headquartered in Evansville, Ind. Wabash is in the Algonkian District, along with Edwards, Lawrence and Richland counties, plus Indiana counties Gibson and Knox. Online: www.buffalotracecouncil.org
Page 8 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Youth Organizations Continued
Local Troops Boy Scout Troop No. 293 meets every Tuesday at Trinity United Methodist Church in Mount Carmel at 6:30 p.m. Troop leader is Dave Brown. Contact Trinity U.M. Church at 618-263-3455 for more information. Cub Scout Pack No. 293 meets from 3 to 4 p.m. on the second, third and fourth Sundays of the month at Trinity United Methodist Church. Call Pack leader Larry Miller at 618-384-7893 for more information. Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois Wabash and Edwards County girls age 5-17 (grades K-12) are invited to join Girl Scouts. Exploring the arts, traveling to new places, meeting new faces, gaining an appreciation for the outdoors
Allendale Consolidated School Dist. #17 Allendale School serves students from prekindergarten to twelfth grade. Students in the grades pre-kindergarten through eighth grade attend classes at 101 N. 3rd St. in Allendale. There are approximately 30 employees for District 17, including teachers bus drivers, cooks and other staff. Allendale’s daily school sessions are from 8:10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday - Friday. For the most part Allendale follows the same yearly schedule as District 348 with few differences. Superintendent/Principal is Bob Bowser Interim Assistant Superintendent is Brad Seaton Ph: 618-299-3161 http://www.allendale. wabash.k12.il.us/
and learning about math and science are just a few of the many opportunities awaiting girls through Girl Scouting. Program activities run the gamut from sewing to rock climbing. The opportunities for girls grow with age and leadership development. Each Girl Scout group is encouraged to contribute to their community through service projects, and girls participate in a variety of activities on the troop level each year, from completing activities for earned patches or badges to field trips and participation in minimally priced locallysponsored or councilsponsored events. The troops may pay for these events and troop supplies through profit earned through participation in the Fall Product sale or
spring Girl Scout Cookie sale. Locally, Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois (GSSI) is chartered to provide the program to girls throughout more than 40 counties. The council also provides volunteer support and training, and troop kits with age level handbooks. To learn more about GSSI, Girl Scouts and volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-345-6858. The council is available to make presentations at civic organization meetings. Wabash Valley YIA The Wabash Valley Youth In Action (YIA) replaced the Wabash Valley YMCA in 2010. YIA offers a variety of sports programs for Wabash County area youth, like basketball, spring soccer, rookie tee-ball, fall soccer, volleyball and flag
football. It sponsors the Fall Festival every year on the fourth Sunday of October. Its annual Bill Mundy golf outing is the Friday before Memorial Day weekend. “Part of our mission is that no child is denied any opportunity to play,” said office coordinator Susan Zimmerman. Scholarships are available. The Wabash Valley YIA is governed by a volunteer board. The YIA office is located inside Old National Bank, 400 Market St., Mount Carmel. For more information about the Wabash Valley YIA, call 618-2634230 or email wvyouthinaction@hotmail.com. Its website is wvyouthinaction.org. It can also be found on facebook at wvyouthinaction.
Education
Dist. #348 Schools
Schools included in Wabash Community Unit School District 348 are Mount Carmel High School, Mount
Carmel Middle School, North Intermediate Center of Education and South Elementary School. Superintendent Tim Buss President Tim Schuler 218 W 13th St. Mount Carmel Ph: 618-262-4181
http://www.d348. wabash.k12.il.us/ School Bus Garage Outer W 3rd Street Mount Carmel Ph: 618-262-8559
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 9
SOUTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL South Elementary School is located at 715 West 3rd St. in Mt. Carmel. The facility houses grades K-2. Hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Principal is Sheila Odom. Phone 618-263-3851 http://www.south. wabash348.com N.I.C.E. NORTH INTERMEDIATE CENTER OF EDUCATION NICE is located at 1300 North Walnut St. in Mt. Carmel. The facility serves grades 3-5. Hours are 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Chris Taylor is principal. Phone 618-263-3876 http://www.nice. wabash348.com MT. CARMEL MIDDLE SCHOOL Mt. Carmel Middle School is the district’s newest facility, completed in August 2001. It is located at 1520 Poplar St. in Mt. Carmel. The school houses grades 6-8. Hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Steven Holt is principal. Jake Newkirk is dean of students. Phone 618-262-5699 http://www.mcmswabash348.blogspot.com MT. CARMEL HIGH SCHOOL MCHS is located at 201 Pear St. in Mt. Carmel. The high school serves grades 9-12. 2015-16 starting enrollment was approximately 506 students. Pat Cheesman is the principal, and Michael Brewer is assistant principal and serves as Athletic Director. Phone 618-262-5104 http://www.mchs. wabash348.com
Education Continued PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS
LANCASTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Lancaster Christian school is located at the four-way stop in Lancaster, between West Salem and Mt. Carmel. It serves children in grades kindergarten through fifth. The school also offers a preschool for children ages three to six years, who are not yet enrolled in kindergarten. Any child is welcome. Principal is Mike Hayes. The school is operated by a board organized by Lancaster Church of Christ. School hours are 8:20 a.m.-3:10 p.m. Monday-Friday, and the school typically honors District 348 school schedules. Main office phone: 618-299-8671 ST. MARY’S SCHOOL St. Mary’s is a Catholic school that is open to the public, regardless of religious affiliation. It is located at 417 Chestnut St. in Mt. Carmel. The school serves preschool through eighth grade. School hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. School is in session typically at the same time as District #348, but there are some differences in holidays and teachers’ institutes. Principal is Alice Wirth. Main office phone: 618-263-3183 WABASH VALLEY COLLEGE Wabash Valley College is a community college established in 1960, and has been operated by the Illinois Eastern Community Colleges District 529 since July 1, 1969. The college is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Consortium (formerly the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools) and is recognized by the Illinois Community College
Board as a Class I Community College. WVC and other IECC colleges, in concert with employers in business and industry, are training the work force of the future. To remain competitive in an increasingly tight job market, more and more adults are attending community colleges. WVC offers a full curriculum of course work, leading to the Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Sciences and Arts, and Associate in Applied Science degrees. WVC also offers a spectrum of vocational-technical education certificates and selected continuing education and community service courses. Graduates enter employment in over 32 occupational areas. WVC also offers business and industry training and provides a number of short courses for area businesses and industry on an “as-needed” basis. Technical internships are offered in the programs of Diesel Equipment, Ag Technologies, Radio/TV and Industrial Studies (which includes Electronics, Machine Shop and Manufacturing Technologies). Franklin University offers bachelor’s degrees in several majors through an online program which has been termed a “golden opportunity” for students from all four Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) campuses. The partnership, which began in 2000, offers community college students the opportunity to finish their bachelor’s degree in as little as 15 months following completion of Associate degree programs at Wabash Valley or other IECC campuses. IECC District 529 also includes Olney Central College, Lincoln Trail College at Robinson and Fairfield’s Frontier
Community College. In 2008, Wabash Valley College and McKendree University announced that students can receive a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Business Administration or in Marketing on WVC’s campus. The main campus of WVC is located in northwest Mt. Carmel. WVC offers a full schedule of athletic, social and cultural events. Intercollegiate sports programs for both men and women have produced conference, regional and national titles. Ph: 618-262-8641 www.wabashvalley.cc WVC FOUNDATION The Wabash Valley College Foundation has been active in its support of Wabash Valley College since the first formal steps to establish the College in 1959. The Foundation has contributed eminently to the organization and development of the college, and assists the entire college family in promoting excellence for Wabash Valley College by securing financial support for special educational and cultural activities which are not part of the ongoing operational expenses of the college, as well as providing many scholarships for WVC students. The Foundation was formed as a non-profit organization in 1963. The first major project was that of purchasing the 120 acres of land where the campus is located. Due to the increase in enrollment and course offerings experienced by WVC and the Foundation’s continuing contributions to the capital development of the college, numerous additions and improvements have been made to the physical facilities at WVC. The Board meets the first Tuesday of each month at noon in Main Hall Room 101.
Page 10 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Licenses
Auto The Wabash County license branch for Secretary of State Jesse White is located at 219 West 2nd St. in Mount Carmel. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Tuesday; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 7:30 a.m. - noon Saturday. The office is closed on Sunday and Monday. The Mount Carmel branch’s telephone number is 618-262-5713. Motorists moving to Illinois from out of state may use their valid driver’s license from their home state for 90 days. To receive an Illinois driver’s license, individuals must appear in person at the license branch and provide a certified birth certificate, signed Social Security Card and two valid proofs of residency. Residents of Illinois must report changes of address to the Secretary of State within 10 days. This may be done at any drivers services facility, by writing the Driver Services Department in Springfield; or online at www.cyberdriveillinois. com. Cost for basic renewal of a drivers license is $30; duplicates with no changes cost $5. There is a $95 fee for transferring titles, and a $25 fee for transferring plates. For more information on drivers licenses, fees and Illinois Rules of the Road, visit the local branch or the Secretary of State’s website at www. cyberdriveillinois.com.
Marriage Marriage licenses must be applied for at the County Clerk’s office in the Wabash County Courthouse at 4th and Market streets. The office hours are from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The phone number is 618-262-4561. Licenses obtained in Wabash County may be used only in Wabash County. Both people must come to the office to sign the application. Both parties should show proof of age when applying for a marriage license. Birth certificate or a driver’s license are acceptable. If a person wishes to get married and is under the age of 18, he or she must get parental consent from both parents. When couples apply for a license, there is a oneday waiting period; however, in extreme emergencies, the one-day waiting period can be waived by a judge. The license must be returned to the County Clerk’s Office within 10 days after the date of the marriage. If parties wish to receive a copy of the license, they can do so through the County Clerk’s office. Requests can be made through the mail also — be sure to include the maiden name of the bride, the groom’s name, and the date of the marriage. The license fee is $20; a certified copy is $5; and each additional copy is $2.
Wabash County Museum In 2011, the Wabash County Museum in Mount Carmel received a wonderful collection of items related to one of Mount Carmel’s most famous citizens — Brace Beemer. Born in Mount Carmel in 1902, Brace Beemer was the best-known voice of radio’s Lone Ranger, and the inspiration for the “Brace Beemer Corral” at the museum, which now showcases his only known existing saddle, along with various other mementos from the man and from the show. This exhibit is one of many featured at the Wabash County Museum, 320 Market St., Mount Carmel. Other permanent exhibits include a fivefoot-tall Doll House, a collection of train memorabilia, a 1905
Homemade Gasoline Engine and an 1885 Columbia Juvenile HiWheeler Bike. A new exhibit showcases local baseball players who played in the minor leagues. Special display cases feature items from the oil boom of the city’s early days, local churches and equipment from the city’s past fire departments. The museum’s hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, 2 - 5 p.m. For more information about the museum or for booking special tours, call 618-262-8774. The museum has 5,000 square feet of public space for exhibits, meetings and research library, and is handicap accessible. For more information visit www. museum.wabash.il.us.
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 11
Mount Carmel Public Library
in no small part to three major funding sources: A trust left to the library by a former librarian, a federal grant from the Illinois State Library and a local fund drive led by the Mt. Carmel Women’s Club. In recent years major improvements have been made to the library’s exterior: A massive parking lot project expanded access, allowed for increased traffic and improved lot entrances. A new sign also greets guests of the public library. Located at 727 North Mulberry St., the Mount Carmel Public Library serves this area with more than 55,000 items, plus a genealogy collection for Wabash County. Programs and services include Summer Reading, Noon Book Review Club, Homebound Services, Genealogy Research, Interlibrary Loans and Web Pac
J — an online site for Shawnee Library System, plus Teacher Services. Twilla Coon serves as the Library Director. Summer Library Hours: Monday- Thursday, 11 a.m.7 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Winter Hours: Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The library is closed on Sunday.
Get an Irresistible Smile Highly trained dentists and staff: offering complete dental care for you and your family. • Exams & cleanings • Bad breath solutions
David Miller, D.D.S., FAGD • Crowns & bridges Bryce Miller, D.M.D. • Porcelain veneers & bonding
325 East 13th Street Mount Carmel, IL 618•263•6555 www.cdcmtc.com
• Extractions & dental implants
Free Smile Makeover Consultations
Easy Financing Solutions • Insurance Plans Welcome
Questions? Call us at 618.263.6555 today!
Phone 263-3531. Fax 262-4243. The Public Library was initially established by the City of Mount Carmel in December 1909. The Reviewer’s Matinee purchased a lot at 120 East 5th St. from the Methodist Church and presented it to the city. This group, with the cooperation of many local citizens, were instrumental in securing $15,000 from the Carnegie Foundation for construction of a public library. A structure was constructed, and the library opened Oct. 16, 1911. Structural damages and limited size led to the recommendation in 1966 to build a new public library in Mt. Carmel. In 1970, a brand new Mount Carmel Public Library was opened at the corner of 8th and Mulberry, thanks
Mount Carmel Public Library Foundation Established in 1998, the Mount Carmel Public Library Foundation manages funds in a trust that help pay for new books annually, and provided needed computer equipment and furnishings. The Foundation’s goals are to help the library maintain the latest technologies for patron and staff use; build quality collections in a diversity of formats; and provide programs and services to meet varied needs of the community. Individuals may make tax-deductible contributions payable to the Mount Carmel Public Library Foundation. Mail contributions to Mount Carmel Public Library, 727 North Mulberry St., Mount Carmel, IL 62863. For more information, phone 263-3531.
Page 12 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Agriculture
Since Wabash County’s inception, farming and agriculture have been important to the community. As agriculture became further advanced as an industry, Wabash County advanced just as quickly. The county is made up of 221 square miles and 141,440 acres, with about 110,000 of those used for crop production. The county is one of the smallest in Illinois. Its topography consists of gently rolling hills with mixed prairie flat lands. Boundaries are denoted by the Wabash River on the east and the Bonpas Creek to the west. Drainage runs directly or indirectly into the Wabash River. Wabash County farmers are progressive with technology and farming practices. Farmers are conscientious about soil conservation and water quality practices. Lawrence Wabash Farm Service Agency 2810 West Haven Road Lawerenceville, IL 62439 Ph: 618-943-2621, ext. 2
Fax: 855-698-7123 Online: www.usda.gov Wabash County Soil & Water Conservation District 15039 Four H Center Ln. Mount Carmel, IL Phone: 618-262-5430 Email: wcswcd1@fron tier.com Online: www.aiswcd.org
County Resource Conservationist and Administrative Coordinator; Nathaniel Crawford, Soil Conservationist for Wabash and Lawrence counties.
Know better banking
Wabash County Farm Bureau 1128 Oak St. P.O. Box 159 Mount Carmel Phone: 618-262-5865 Fax: 618-263-4111 wabashfb@frontier.com Carol Jo Beadles, mgr. Online: www.ilfb.org
Wabash County Soil & Water board of Directors: Chairman Stanley Kelsey, Vice-Chairman Albion Mt. Erie Lee Berberich, Secretary/ Wabash Valley Treasurer Liz Hoffman, Service Co. 800-445-7189 Directors Matthew MarriAllendale Office: ott and Jordan Baumgart. Plant Manager Board members meet the Steve Archibald second Monday of the 21546 Highway 1 month at 7 p.m. at the Allendale, IL 62410 | office. Natural Resources Conservation Service and Soil and Water Conservation District Staff: Gary Zwilling, District Conservationist for Wabash and Lawrence counties; Brandon Rhinehart, Soil Conservationist Albion Technician for Wabash, Lawrence and Edwards; Colleen Kensler, Wabash
Ph: 618-299-4131 or 1-877-FS ADALE Fax: 618-299-3011 allendale@wabashval leyfs.com Browns Office: Plant Manager Justin Perkins 817 IL Rte 15 Browns, IL Ph: 618-446-5152 Fax: 618-446-9340 browns@wabashval leyfs.com
Mount Carmel Rural King Supply Inc. 2419 West 9th St. 618-262-7134 Olney Crossville Store Hours
www.cnbalbion.com Van Matre Seeds 8686 Highway 11 Mount Carmel, IL 62863 Phone: 618-303-7474
Know better banking
Erie Olney AlbionMt. • Bridgeport • Crossville Crossville 800-445-7189 www.cnbalbion.com Lawrenceville • Mt. Erie • Olney
800-445-7189 • www.cnbalbion.com
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 13
AG at a glance: Average size of farms: 556 acres Average value of agricultural products sold per farm: $113,189 Average value of crops sold per acre for 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
Industry Anderson Brothers P.O. Box 67, Mount Carmel, 618-262-5631 B & D Independence Company 1024 Empire St., Mount Carmel, 618-262-7117 Corwin Printing Co. 1004 Landes St., Mount Carmel 618-263-3936 CST/Motorad 916 Empire St., Mount Carmel 618-262-4153 Dee Drilling Company 431 North Market, Mt. Carmel 618-262-4136 Dersch Energies, Inc. 620 Oak St., Mount Carmel 618-262-5181 F.L. Beard Service Corp. 800 Stokes St., Mount Carmel 618-262-5193 Jeff Guisewite Inc. 16153 East 1100 Rd., Mount Carmel 618-262-4933 H & H Trucking and Bobcat Service Mount Carmel, 618-262-3838 Haggard Tank Truck Service Inc. 1309 Poplar St., Mount Carmel, 618-262-5060 H.B. Zachry Company 1625 West 9th St., Mount Carmel 618-262-2121 Hughes Heavy Haul & Crane Service 101 South State St., Allendale 618-299-3522 IMI 415 South Mulberry St., Mount Carmel 618-262-5119 Kieffer Bros. Construction Company 118 North Division St., Mount Carmel 618-262-5108 Mount Carmel Machine Shop, Inc. 10011 North 1250 Blvd., Mount Carmel 618-262-4591 Mount Carmel Public Utility Co. 316 North Market, Mount Carmel 618-262-5151 Mount Carmel Stabilization Group 1611 College Dr., Mount Carmel 618-262-5118 Duke Energy (Gibson Station) 1097 North 950 West, Owensville, Ind. 812-386-8491 Pacific Press Technologies 714 Walnut St., Mount Carmel 618-262-8666 Wabash Area Vocational Enterprise (WAVE) 1420 West Third, Mount Carmel 618-262-8614 Wabash Container 1015 West Ninth, Mount Carmel 618-263-3586 Wabash Valley Service Co. Allendale office 618-299-4131 Willy’s Carburetor and Dyno Shop 1000 North Market St., Mount Carmel 618-262-8021 Vigo Coal Company Inc. 7790 Highway 15, Mount Carmel 618-262-7022
INGRAM FUNERAL HOMES Affiliate of Keystone America, Inc.
“Encouraging YOU Is Our Inspiration”
Sherry Harder Funeral Director General Manager
Our policy is to serve your family in the same manner we would want our family served when the loss of a loved one occurs. The staff of the Ingram Funeral Homes offer many options to the families of our community at their time of need. At Need Funerals, Pre-Need Funerals, Cremation Funerals, Key Memories, Memorial Services, Graveside Services, Direct Cremations, and Package Services. Albion, IL 618-445-2222
West Salem, IL 618-456-8888
Allendale, IL 618-299-3141
Page 14 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Media
Newspaper The Mount Carmel Register is a daily newspaper located at 117 East Fourth St., P.O. Box 550, in Mount Carmel. The Register publishes three days a week — Monday, Wednesday and Friday — and the weekly Weekender publication. For subscriptions or more information, call 618-262-5144. To read the Register online, visit www.mtcarmelregister.com, and visit the newspaper on Facebook. Readers can also subscribe to the newspaper’s e-Edition, allowing them to read the entire edition online. Radio Stations WSJD — Operates at 100.5 FM in Mt. Carmel and plays oldies. Its business office is located at
331 North Market St. The office phone number is 618-263-4300. WVJC — Wabash Valley College’s Radio Station, 89.1 FM, is Mt. Carmel’s non-commercial college rock station. The business
office is located at 2200 College Drive, on the campus of Wabash Valley College. The station telephone number is 618-2628989. Online: www.iecc. edu/wvjc WYNG — Operates at
94.9 FM and plays bright adult contemporary. The business office is located at 127 West 3rd St. in Mt. Carmel. The station number is 618-263-3500. Online: www.wyng949.com
Law Enforcement Mount Carmel Police The Mount Carmel Police Department provides 24-hour police protection within Mount Carmel’s city limits. Offices are located at 120 East 4th St. Chief of Police is John Lockhart.The department has a full complement of officers holding various ranks, plus a K-9 unit, communication supervisor and full- and part-time dispatch personnel. A city marshal and several deputy city marshals work as part of the Auxiliary Officer program. The Mount Carmel Police Department handles all 911 calls and dispatches. The department also offers assistance to the Wabash County Sheriff ’s Office. To reach the Mount Carmel Police Department: For emergencies, dial 911
Police Chief John Lockhart
For non-emergencies, call 618-262-4114 Administrative line: 618-262-4433
Wabash County Sheriff The Wabash County Sheriff ’s Office is located at 120 East 4th Street in Mt. Carmel. J. Dereck Morgan serves as Wabash County Sheriff. The department has three full-time deputies, a part-time deputy, one part-time court security officer and one secretary. It also has both full-time and part-time correctional officers. The Sheriff ’s Office dispatches to all communities within Wabash County. The department manages the jail, transports prisoners to and from court, serves court paperwork and provides courtroom security. An Auxiliary Deputy program is offered through the department. Applicants must be 21 to apply for the ride-along program.
Sheriff Derek Morgan
To reach the Wabash County Sheriff ’s Office: For emergencies, dial 911 For non emergencies, dial 618-262-4186 Administrative line: 618-262-2706 Wabash County Jail: 618-262-5531
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 15
Fire Departments Wabash County residents sleep more easily at night thanks to solid county fire departments. Whether paid full-time or paid on-call, departments in communities big and small boast firefighters that train regularly, receive certification in a variety of areas of emergency response and work to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and equipment. Residents realize the value of well-equipped and welltrained fire departments not only when emergencies arise, but in lower property insurance rates as well. Mount Carmel The Mount Carmel Fire Department, located at 830 Walnut St., has four captains (full-time drivers) who man the department 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The chief is Francis Speth, and the assistant chief is Fred McGee. There are approximately 20 paid on-call firefighters. Some firefighters serve as public relations officers, Fire Chief Francis Speth certified fire investigators and certified fire instructors. Ongoing training occurs on air packs, investigation, water supplies, hazmat training and more. The emergency number for all of Wabash County is 911. The business phone number for MCFD is 262-4311. Throughout the year you can contact your firefighters and ask them to display its Safety Trailer, or you can schedule a tour of the station. Allendale Allendale Rural Fire Protection District covers 60 square miles of northern Wabash County. The towns that are protected by this district are Allendale, Patton, Orio and Lancaster. Allendale has two fire stations — one in Allendale, the other in Lancaster. The emergency number is 911. Gerald Brooks is the chief and assistant chief is Rick Medler. The department has approximately 40 Fire Chief Gerald Brooks firefighters and supporting members. The monthly fire meetings are typically held the first and third Mondays of the month. The firefighters
receive ongoing training regularly. Firefighters host a steak supper fundraiser every October, and volunteers contribute to their community in a variety of ways, year-in and year-out. Bellmont The Bellmont Volunteer Fire Department meets the first Tuesday of the month in the firehouse at 7 p.m. The firehouse is located on 102 South Freetrade St. The emergency number is 911, and the business phone is 618-298-2416. The Bellmont fire district stretches from east to west, from the Bonpas Creek to Maud Road, and north to Fire Chief Steve Rigg south from 1850 N. to Shoe Bend. The fire chief is Steve Rigg. Assistant chief is Mike Wright. This fire department has about 25 active volunteers, who are highly skilled and trained. The Bellmont Fire District is supported through tax revenue, though it regularly hosts fundraisers to ease that tax burden and raise funds for needed equipment. Many department members are trained weather and storm spotters. Keensburg The Keensburg Fire Department is a volunteer fire department. Firefighters meet the second Thursday of each month in the firehouse at 6:30 p.m. For emergencies, dial 911. The business phone number is 263-8487. The chief is Wayne Hocking, and Fire Chief Wayne Hocking the assistant chief is Jim Kensler. There are approximately 18 volunteers, who participate in ongoing training throughout the year.
Page 16 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
WEMA
The Wabash County Emergency Management Agency (WEMA) is located at 930 1/2 North Market St. The agency also has approximately 25 volunteers. WEMA’s primary mission is to coordinate local
emergency services during a time of disaster. It is the liaison for local, state and federal officials during disasters. It is also the Administration Control for the Wabash County Water Rescue Team, which has 12 volunteers.
WEMA teaches its volunteers four mission points: Preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery. To report missing persons or severe weather dial 911, or contact the Wabash County Sheriff ’s Office.
For non-emergencies, WEMA can be reached at 618-263-3111. WEMA holds meetings the second Tuesday of the month. New volunteers are always welcome and encouraged to attend.
Utilities & Services Telephone
Frontier provides local telephone service in Wabash County. For activation, installation and change in services: Ph: 1-877-462-8188 www.frontier.com Payment address: P.O. Box 2951 Phoenix, AZ 85062-2951 Correspondence P.O. Box 6000 Hayden, ID 83835-2009
NewWave Communications offers telephone service to area customers. Visit the company’s office at 113 1/2 West 9th St. in Mount Carmel, visit their Web site or call to learn more about available services. Ph: 618-263-3931 or toll-free, 1-888-863-9928 www.newwavecom.com Water and Sewer
Water and sewage services are supplied by private and municipalityowned systems. In Mount Carmel, call 618-262-7461; rural Mount Carmel can call 618-299-6101; in Allendale, call 618-299-3181; in Bellmont, call 618-2982520; in Keensburg, call 618-298-2012. Television
Cable television service in Mount Carmel is provided by NewWave Communications. Headquartered in Sikeston, Missouri, the company has a
number of satellite offices to help serve its customer base in southern Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, western Tennessee, southeast Missouri, Arkansas, North Carolina and South Carolina. NewWave’s Mount Carmel office is located at 113 1/2 West 9th St. Ph: 618-263-3931. The Customer Care Center may be reached at 1-888-8 NewWave (1-888-863-9928). www.newwavecom.com Individuals can sign up for DirecTV service at Slayton Cellular, 829 Chestnut St., Mount Carmel. Ph: 618-262-4081. www.directv.com
Individuals can sign up for Dish Network service at Cellular Connection, 230 East 9th St., Mount Carmel. Ph: 618-262-5400. www.dishnetwork.com Individuals can also sign up for Dish Network service at Frontier Communications. Ph: 1-877-462-8188. www.frontier.com Cellular Phone Service
Individuals can sign up for Verizon Wireless at Cellular Connection 230 East 9th St. Ph: 262-5400 verizonwireless.com
Individuals can sign up for Alltel wireless at Slayton Wireless 829 Chestnut St. Phe: 262-4081 www.alltel.com Internet
NewWave Communications 113 West 9th St. Ph: 618-263-3931 or 888-863-9928 www.newwavecom.com Frontier Ph: 1-877-462-8188 www.frontier.com Rise Broadband Ph: 844-207-1300 RiseBroadband.com
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 17
Special Events AG DAYS
Sponsored by the Wabash County Chamber of Commerce, Ag Products Days is an annual four-day festival held near the beginning of August. With free entertainment, parking and admission, visitors to uptown Mount Carmel experience an array of amusement rides, concession stands and game booths. The event begins on a Wednesday each year, with city crews closing streets at 4 p.m. on Tuesday. The Retail Merchants Committee gets in on the festivities with sidewalk sales and many special offers visible through uptown merchants’ displays. Also featured in the Ag Days lineup are a number of local bands and performance groups, and many other activities. An always-popular Ag Days event is the Little Miss Ag Days pageant, which unofficially kicks off the four-day festival the first night. Christmas Uptown
Held early in December from 4 to 8 p.m. in Mount Carmel and sponsored by the Wabash County Retail Merchant’s Committee, Christmas Uptown is a great way for children to get excited for the Christmas season, meet Santa, his helpers and reindeer and a chance for parents to do a bit of shopping. Some of the most popular attractions include free carriage rides (with donation of a canned good), pictures with Santa, gingerbread house competition, live music, craft and food vendors, Santa’s elves, free Rudolph (pony) rides (with donation of canned good), live Nativity and the lighting of the City Christmas Tree. All donations of cash and food go to Operation Share which helps families in Wabash County during the Christmas and Thanksgiving seasons. New attractions
as a regular ‘homecoming’ for former and current Wabash County residents. Duck Race
are added each year for this must-attend family event. Wabash Ribbfest
Barbecue bibs, forks, knives and sticky fingers are a few things area residents get in Mount Carmel when Wabash Ribberfest arrives on Market Street. Traditionally held the first weekend after Labor Day, organizers moved it to April 25-26, 2014. Ribberfest is recognized as an official State of Illinois barbecue contest, and is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society. Teams from across the Midwest come together to compete. The festival also features such extras as a pie baking contest and wine sampling, tasty lunches and dinners and entertainment, including a free Friday night concert. Wabash Ribberfest is made possible by organizers and members on the Ribberfest Committee. It is funded by local and area sponsors who generously put their dollars behind the event. For more information on how compete, volunteer or sponsor Wabash Ribberfest, contact one of your local Ribberfest Committee members. www.wabashribberfestbbq. com
event features a Saturday full of musical performances, vendors and concessions at Ruritan Park in Allendale, located on Highway 1. Orio Chowder
Everyone goes to the Orio Chowder. An annual fundraiser for the Orio Cemetery and Wabash Presbyterian Church missions, the Orio Chowder — which saw its 95th in 2015 — is held each Labor Day weekend at the Orio Community Center, across the road from the church. More than 1,200 gallons of chowder is made and sold either by the bowl, or by the gallon. Plenty of other food items are typically available as well, plus freshly prepared desserts, jellies, jams and candy. Sports events are always on the schedule as well, like volleyball, softball, horseshoes and washers. This event is rich in yearslong in tradition, and known
Hwy 1
Sponsored by the Wabash County Retail Merchants Committee, the annual duck race is held at the Mount Carmel City Pool in the summer. The event features a cook out, free swim for the entire family and an annual cruise-in car show. The event added a mascot in 2013, who was named Dash, by fans of the RMC Facebook page. Proceeds from the race go to helping the community. Various projects funded by the race include trees for the Uptown Amphitheater, Christmas trees for Market Street in Mount Carmel, and numerous other civic projects. YIA Fall Festival
The Wabash Valley Youth In Action (YIA) Fall Festival is held in Mt. Carmel each October. From a Halloween costume contest to musical performances, candy stops and more, the event offers a little something for everyone. The festival includes a contest for the title of Little Mister Harvest Prince. In 2011, the annual Fall Festival was moved to Mount Carmel City Park, where it is again scheduled for Oct 27, 2013. For more information about Youth In Action, call the YIA office at 263-4230.
Mt. Carmel, IL FFL# 3-37-09712
Bluegrass in the Park
Hosted by the Allendale Ruritan Club, Bluegrass in the Park advertises “Pickers Welcome!” each October. The
Certified Licensed Gunsmith
Dealer in Firearms, Ammunition, & Police Supplies
Page 18 – Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Deer Hunting
Hunting and fishing licenses are available online through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Website at http://www.dnr. illinois.gov. They can be purchased from participating DNR Direct license and permit vendors, including hundreds of sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, convenience stores and other retail locations. They can also be purchased by telephone through the DNR Direct toll free telephone system at 1-888-6-PERMIT. Harvest Reporting Information by phone: 1-866-ILCHECK (1-866-452-4325) Deer Hunting season 2015/2016: Youth Firearm Deer Season - 10/10/2015 to 10/12/2015 First Firearm Deer Season 11/20/2015 to 11/22/2015 Second Firearm Deer Season - 12/3/2015 to 12/6/2015 First Muzzleloader Deer Season - 12/3/2015 to 12/6/2015 Second Muzzleloader Deer Season - 12/11/2015 to 12/13/2015 First Late-Winter Antlerless
Deer Season- 12/31/2015 to 1/3/2016 First Late-Winter/CWD Deer Season - 12/31/2016 to 1/3/2016 Second Late-Winter/CWD Deer Season - 1/15/2016 to 1/17/2016 Archery Deer Season 10/1/2015 to 1/17/2016 Second Late-Winter Antlerless Season - 1/15/2016 to 1/17/2016 License and permit vendors: Edwards County Farm Bureau 15 South Fifth St. Albion The Liquor Barn 1125 North Court Street Grayville Allendale Marathon 103 East Oak Street Allendale CJ’s Fast Stop Inc 103 East Oak Street Allendale Mount Carmel Rural King Supply 2419 West Ninth St. Mt Carmel Shopko #716 1520 West Ninth Street Mt Carmel Four Ten Outdoors, LLC 1526 West Ninth Street Mount Carmel License Fees: Resident hunting license - $12.50
Resident lifetime hunting license - $360 Resident lifetime sportsmen’s combo hunting/fishing - $765 Resident senior hunting license - $6.50 Resident senior sportsmen’s combo hunting/fishing - $13.50 Resident sportsmen’s combination hunting/fishing - $26.25 Resident veteran hunting license (prior certification required) - $6.50 Resident veteran sportsmen’s combo hunting/fishing - $13.50 Non-resident hunting license - $57.75 Non-resident hunting
license (5 day) - $37.75 Non-resident hunting preserve license - $12.50 Hunting apprentice license - $7.50 Replacing Lost or Desroyed Permits Mail a check in the amount of $3 and a letter including your name, birthdate, current address and phone number, type of permit (firearm, muzzleloader, archery, etc.) permit county and permit number(s) — if available — to: IDNR Permit Office One Natural Resources Way Springfield, IL 62702-1271 Replacements will arrive in 5-7 days from receipt.
709 N. Court St. • 618-375-4033 • Grayville, IL 13 E. Main St. • 618-445-4961 • Albion, IL 915 Walnut St. • 618-262-4177 • Mt. Carmel, IL
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 19
United States Postal Service Allendale Post Office 304 E. Main Street Allendale Phone: 299-5151 Bellmont Post Office 210 North Main St. Bellmont Phone: 298-2413 Browns Post Office 602 Henderson St. Browns 446-5244 Keensburg Post Office 9337 Market Street Keensburg 298-2090 Mount Carmel Post Office 503 N. Market Street Mt. Carmel Phone: 262-7024 Postmaster: Jared Sellers
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
Page 20 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Pet Care
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital Mount Carmel Animal Hospital celebrated 40 years of serving Wabash County in 2015. The animal hospital is located at 2816 N. Cherry St., Mt. Carmel. Small animals are welcome by appointment or walk-ins. Office hours are 7 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday and Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. To keep your family pets happy and healthy, services include surgery, dentistry, X-rays, preventative care, boarding and grooming. This past year laser therapeutic therapy was added.
2816 N. Cherry St., Mount Carmel 618-262-5578 http://www.mtcarmela nimalhospital.com Wabash County Animal Shelter If you are looking for a furry addition to your family, look no further. The Wabash County Animal Shelter, built in 2010, houses an average of 20 puppies and dogs and 25 kittens and cats. It is staffed by volunteers who are strongly committed to taking the best possible care of their temporary boarders while helping lost animals find their way back home or finding a perfect new home for each homeless pet. Pictures and bios of shelter animals are updated daily and can be found at adopt-a-pet.com. If you see an animal you are interested in meeting, or if you see your lost pet, please call the shelter at 618-262-7109 or email wabashcountyanimals@ yahoo.com. The office is open most weekday mornings and volunteers are available to assist you. To view the animals outside of normal business hours, volunteers are always
happy to set up appointments to meet you at the shelter. The shelter is located at 11336 North 1550 Blvd. (Poor Farm Road), Mt. Carmel. Can’t adopt an animal but still want to help? The Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies, the group of volunteers who staff and support the shelter, hold monthly organizational meetings and sponsor numerous fundraisers throughout the year including dog washes, street corner donation drives, Christmas Uptown, junior high dances and the annual dog swim and many more. If you are interested in being a shelter volunteer, there are endless opportunities. Just call the shelter and find out how you can help!
Illinois State Senator
DALE RIGHTER
Our
“Friend in Agriculture” by Illinois Farm Bureau Springfield Mattoon
217-782-6674 217-235-6033
www.dalerighter.com
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 21
Recreation & Entertainment Bowling TenPins Bowling Center 930A West 9th Mount Carmel, Ph: (618)263-6506 Leagues & open bowling Camping Beall Woods State Park and Nature Preserve - DNR Camping. Tent camping Sixteen Class C campsites with vehicular access and restrooms, but no showers or electricity, are available. Phone: (618) 298-2442. Conservation Lake, located at 8985 N. 1600 Mount Carmel, provides camping for those who are members. City Parks Allendale has a city park that includes a shelter house and playground equipment. Bellmont City Park includes playground equipment, basketball courts, washers, horseshoes and a softball/baseball field. A shelter house is available for rent. Mount Carmel City Park includes playground equipment, basketball courts, shelters and picnic tables. Lincoln Park includes playground equipment and a basketball court. Froman Park includes playground equipment, basketball courts, shelters, Lake Froman and Dee White Memorial Field. Fishing/Boating Beall Woods Lake (trolling motors only) Bonpas Creek Conservation Lake Froman Lake Mesa Lake (private) Wabash River (unlimited access) Wabash Valley Pond Golf Mount Carmel Municipal Golf Course 18-Hole Public Golf Course includes Bermuda Fairways & Bent Grass Greens with a full schedule of men’s & ladies’ leagues
and tournaments. Peak season is March through November. 700 Park Rd. Mount Carmel (618) 262-5771 www.mtcarmelgolf course.com E-mail: mtcproshop@yahoo.com Skating Skating Rink 15039 4H Center Ln Mount Carmel, IL 62863 (618) 263-9020 Tennis Wabash Valley College Courts
Municipal Courts on Pool Road Swimming Mount Carmel Municipal Pool (summer only) Park Rd. Mount Carmel (618) 262-4042
WVC Pool (year-round) Indoor facility located at Wabash Valley College 2200 College Drive Mount Carmel (618) 263-4999 ext. 3640 Wabash County Museum 320 Market St. (618) 262-8774 Hours: 2-5 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday 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 in a location 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 Area Vineyards Berryville Vineyards 1910 N. Prairieton Rd. Claremont, IL Ph: (618) 869-2054 berryvillevineyards.com
Lasata Winery RR 2 Box 64B Lawrenceville, IL 62439 Ph: (618) 884-1200 lasatawines.com GenKota Winery 301 N. 44th Street Mount Vernon, Il 62864 Beall Woods State Park Beall Woods is located on the banks of the Wabash River in southeastern Illinois. Beall Woods attracts visitors from around the world who catch a glimpse of one of the few remaining tracts of old-growth forest found east of the Mississippi River. Besides hiking through this primitive woodland, Beall Woods offers camping, picnicking and fishing to visitors
who want to spend time in a quiet, relaxing setting. Hours of operation are basically year-round, except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. It opens at sunrise and closes at 10 p.m. Beall Woods had been under the ownership of the Beall family since the mid-1800’s. While a working farm, almost half of the 635 acres consisted of forest that had been left relatively untouched by man. After the last living relative of the Beall family died without a will, the park went on the market. Someone wanted to buy the forest and clear the trees. A group of concerned citizens contacted the State of Illinois in 1965, and the State of Illinois purchased it by invoking a law of eminent domain against the unwilling seller. In 1966, the 329 acres of old-growth forest were dedicated as the 14th Illinois Nature preserve by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. Because of its importance to the country’s natural heritage, Beall Woods is registered as a National Landmark by the United States, and is listed in the United States Register of Natural Landmarks as the “Forest of the Wabash.”
Page 22 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Health Care
Wabash General Hospital On June 3, 1951, Wabash General Hospital opened its doors to the citizens of Mount Carmel, Wabash County and surrounding communities. Wabash General Hospital received full accreditation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations in 1954. In Feb. 1980, the Board began planning for a new 38,000 square foot, onestory facility. A variety of grants, loans and donations funded the project. Groundbreaking for the new facility was Aug. 22, 1982. On March 19, 1999, the hospital broke ground on a $4.5 million renovation project. This project moved outpatient services to the front of the building, consolidated departments that were spread throughout the hospital and provided more efficient services for patients and visitors. There were approximately 8,000 square feet of new construction and 18,000 square feet of renovation completed. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on May 10, 2000. In July of 2011, Wabash General hosted the grand opening of its 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. WGH is a Critical Access Hospital with a team of knowledgeable and hardworking individuals who are supported by two service organizations, the WGH Foundation and the Hospital Auxiliary. Wabash General Hospital and its staff of professionals offer many services, including: ambulance,
cardiology, case management, convenient care clinic, dietetics, emergency care, general surgery, gynecology, hearing clinic, laboratory, medical/surgical, monitored care, oncology & hematology, orthopaedics & sports medicine, pharmacy, podiatry, primary care, radiology, rehab services, respiratory care, sleep study, surgery and swing bed. WGH Foundation The Wabash General Hospital Foundation is a not-for-profit organization which sole purpose is to support Wabash General Hospital. Wabash General Hospital started a program over twenty years ago to provide scholarships for deserving local students who were going into the healthcare field. The Foundation provides scholarships to deserving people in exchange for future employment with Wabash General Hospital when they graduate. Tax-deductible gifts to the Foundation are welcomed, and may be arranged through the hospital’s administrative office at 618-263-6418. WGH Auxiliary The Wabash General Hospital Auxiliary has been in full operation since 1950. The Auxiliary’s main source of income is from the hospital gift shop, raffles and bake sales. These profits are also utilized to purchase items for the hospital. Some other duties of the volunteers include distributing menus to patients and helping with other nonpatient care tasks.
Wabash General Hospital is located at 1418 College Drive in Mount Carmel. Ph: 618-262-8621 wabashgeneral.com
Wabash County Health Department The Wabash County Health Department’s main office is located at 130 West 7th St., Mount Carmel, and may be reached by dialing 618-263-3873. The Health Department has a proud history of providing quality health care services to residents of Wabash County. Established in 1983, the Wabash County Health Department offers a broad spectrum of health
care services through its various Divisions: Public Health, Behavioral Health and Prevention. The main building houses the Administrative, Prevention and Public Health Divisions. The Behavioral Health Division, also known as the Depot Counseling Center, is at 1001 N. Market St. Ph: 263-4970
Your Home & Farm Supply Store
Highway 15 West • Mt. Carmel, IL. 262-7134
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 23 Cynthia Poland serves as Administrator of the Wabash County Health Department. Administration staff also includes Director of Nursing Kendra Grounds, Fiscal Officer Tonya Potts, Behavioral Health Director Judy Wissel, Executive Assistant Audra Spray and Billing Coordinator Megan Smith. The Public Health Division houses an array of programs and services, including Family Case Management, and the Women, Infant and Children (WIC) Nutrition Education and Supplemental Food Program. Breastfeeding Peer Counselors and nationally-certified Lactation Consultants are on staff to offer support and
guide women through successful breastfeeding. The Family Planning Program offers confidential low-cost woman’s health exams and contraception to women of childbearing age. Infant-to-adult immunizations, TB skin testing, infectious disease follow-up, lead screening, STD testing and chronic disease monitoring and screening, and Foot Care Clinics are also services offered to the public. Lowcost laboratory services are available on a cash basis with a physician’s order. Restaurant Inspections, Potable water testing and Sewage Inspections are also part of Public Health Services. The Behavioral Health
Division is committed to providing quality outpatient mental health services to citizens age 3 and up. Individual, Family and Marital Counseling services are offered individually or in groups by professional therapists. Clients who lack access to needed services or resources can be assisted through Case Management. Case managers can also aid clients who are experiencing difficulties in managing daily activities. Medicaid and insurances with WCHD as in-network are accepted. Crisis assessment and referral is provided seven days a week, 24 hours a day to individuals who are experiencing a psychiatric crisis and a high level
of personal stress. After hours this service occurs at the Emergency Department at Wabash General Hospital Substance abuse treatment services, DUI Evaluations and Risk Education are also provided at the Depot. We can accept Medicaid now for treatment services and indigent individuals may qualify for a reduced fee for substance abuse treatment, DUI evaluations and Risk Education Services. Risk Education is offered regularly and consists of 4 group sessions of 2.5 hours each. The Prevention Division includes the “All Our Kids” Network and Emergency Preparedness.
Senior Citizens Wabash County Senior Citizens 115 E 3rd St Mount Carmel, IL (618) 262-7403 Tracy Dunkel, director Illinois Department on Aging www.state.il.us/aging/ Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. One Natural Resources Way, Suite 100 Springfield, IL 62702-1271 1-800-252-8966 FAX: (217) 785-4477 Senior HelpLine: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday -Friday 1-800-252-8966 1-888-206-1327 (TTY) aging.ilsenior @illinois.gov Benefit Access Program: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday 1-800-252-8966 1-888-206-1327 (TTY)
Adult Protective Services: 1-866-800-1409 1-888-206-1327 (TTY)
Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab Center 1320 W 9th St Mount Carmel, IL 62863 (618) 263-4337 Oakview Villa Supportive Living 916 Oak St Mount Carmel, IL 62863 (618) 263-4092 Oakview Heights
Continuous Care & Rehab Center and the Oakview Villa Supportive Living community have about 100 employees caring for residents. Oakview was established in 1982 by General Baptist Nursing Home Inc. It saw tremendous refurbishment, expansion and the addition of the Oakview Villa Supportive
Living complex. The emphasis at Oakview is on quality of life and individualized support in a new state-ofthe-art facility. The adjacent Oakview Villa complex, with eight double units and 22 single units, is one of many ministries that General Baptist provides.
Page 24 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Performing Arts
Wabash Valley College and the Wabash Valley Arts Council are pleased to announce the Performing Arts Series for 20152016, which promises to be another year of outstanding entertainment in the Brubeck Arts Center Theatre. Opening the Series will be the The Golden Dragon Acrobats at 1:30 p.m., Sept. 13 representing the best of a time-honored tradition that began more than 25 centuries ago. Traditional dance, spectacular costumes, ancient and contemporary music and theatrical techniques are incorporated in this performance of breathtaking skill and beauty. Community theatre production, Luxury Cruise, will have performances 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23, 24 & 1:30 p.m. Oct. 25. Written by the very successful playwright Fred Carmichael and directed by Lynn Kinkade, Luxury Cruise is a three-act story that takes place on a cruise ship circumnavigating the globe. Each of the three acts tells the story of a different couple on a world cruise: two eccentric older ladies on their first trip; a married couple who know the husband is about to die; and a flashy bride who is determined to bring culture to her husband, who is only interested in testing his poker ability with his fellow passengers. The Musical Spirit of Christmas, featuring the WVC Community Choir will be 1:30 p.m. Dec. 6. The Wabash Valley College Community Choir will return to the stage to open this year’s Christmas Concert Showcase. Directed by Stephen G. Sawyer, this outstanding
choral group will begin the program with traditional seasonal favorites. Also to be featured will be a second-act performance by selected artists. The final fall production is It’s A Wonderful Life, A Radio Drama, a community theatre production directed by Lynn Kinkade. It will run 7:00 p.m. Dec. 10 and 11 & 1:30 p.m. Dec. 13. This beloved American holiday film classic will
that includes original routines, quick-witted verbal repartee and world-class juggling skills in a very light-hearted approach to the art. In addition to touring extensively in the U.S. and Canada since 1987, the Gizmo Guys have strutted their stuff in places as diverse as Saudi Arabia and Japan and have taught juggling at the renowned French and Canadian National Circus
be staged in the Brubeck Arts Center in December as a live production during the Golden Era of Radio in the 1940’s. With the help of an ensemble of local actors, the story of George Bailey will unfold as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. This radio drama is recommended for the whole family! The Gizmo Guys will perform at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23. Performing as the Gizmo Guys, Allan Jacobs and Barrett Felker have amazed and amused audiences around the world. The Gizmo Guys’ rapidfire act exhilarates and inspires sidesplitting laughter in audiences comprised of toddlers to great-grandparents. Simply put, the Gizmo Guys are a comedy juggling act
Schools. Side by Side by Sondheim, a community theatre production directed by Sue Schriber will be 7:30 p.m. March 17, 18, 19 & 1:30 on March 20. This revue celebrates the wit and genius of musical theatre’s most influential artist, Stephen Sondheim. Get ready to laugh, cry and fall in love with lyrics that are heartbreakingly true and music that captures the soaring emotions of a new generation. The numbers are a mix of well-known favorites from Sondheim’s work as well as obscure songs that didn’t make it into famous shows. A narrator guides the evening, interjecting interesting stories between the numbers. A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline will be performed
at 1:30 p.m. April 3. The show traces the late star’s footsteps from her early honky-tonk days and radio fame through her rise at the Grand Ole Opry and triumphs at Carnegie Hall and Las Vegas. The show is produced on tour by Springer Theatricals, the national touring unit of the official State Theatre of Georgia, the Springer Theatre, located in Columbus. The Cashore Marionettes will thrill the audience at 7:30 p.m. April 7. In the performance, Life in Motion, Joseph Cashore presents his collection of marionette masterworks. Characters of depth, integrity and humanity are portrayed in a full evening unlike anything else in theater today. The performance is a series of scenes taken from everyday life and set to beautiful music by composers such as Beethoven, Vivaldi, Strauss and Copland. Through a combination of virtuoso manipulation, humor, pathos, classic music and poetic insight, The Cashore Marionettes take the audience on a journey that celebrates the richness of life. Life in Motion is a powerful, entertaining, surprising, theatrically satisfying, one-of-a-kind evening for adults and young adults. Mr. Cashore has been designing and performing his remarkable marionettes for over 30 years. Patron Passes are $40; Annual 100 Club Patron Passes are $100 (includes two Patron Passes); Corporate or Family Sponsors are $250 (includes four Patron Passes); Arts Advocates are $500 (includes four Patron Passes).
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 25
Banking, Insurance, Investments & Financial Planning Country Financial 1128 Oak St. Mount Carmel 263-3524 www.countryfinancial.com
First Bank 601 Market St., Mount Carmel 263-3833 www.firstbank.bz
Edward Jones: www.edwardjones.com Josh Farley 602 Market St. Mount Carmel 263-3828
First National Bank Allendale 301 East Main St. 299-4411 Mount Carmel 1515 West 9th St. 263-6511 www.e-firstnationalbank.com
Tim Phillips 1204 Oak St. Mount Carmel 263-3899 Toni L. Brines 530 North Walnut St. Mount Carmel 263-3104 Tanja Bingham 921 North Market St. Mount Carmel 262-4780
First Insurance Agency 601 Market St. Mount Carmel 262-5191 www.firstbank.bz
Health Insurance Associates 2002 College Drive Mount Carmel 263-4200 www.slaico.com Kemper CPA Group,LLP 631 N. Market St. Mount Carmel 263-3888 262-8311 (fax) www.KemperCPA.com Mundy Insurance & Real Estate Agency 400 Chestnut St. Mount Carmel 263-3131 http:www.mundyrealestate.com
Harris Insurance Agency 231 North Mulberry St. Mount Carmel 262-7735 harrisinsquote.com
First Mid-Illinois Bank 400 Market St., Mount Carmel 263-5200 www.firstmid.com
Wabash County 377 Board James Litherland, treasurer City of Mount Carmel Bill Hudson, mayor Rudy Witsman, city clerk Village of Allendale Tim Grounds, president Melody Walker, clerk Village of Bellmont Larry Sloss, president Patty Rigg, clerk Village of Keensburg Shawn A Perry, president Beverly McBride, clerk Allendale Rural Fire James Barger Bellmont Rural Fire Leland Marriott, treasurer Browns Rural Fire Darrell Lynch Greater Wabash Fire Keith Hocking Little Wabash Fire Dean Buckman West Salem Fire Andrew Spray, treasurer
Bonpas Conservancy Darrell Lynch, treasurer Wabash General Hospital Stephen McGill, comptroller Wabash County Ambulance c/o Wabash General Hospital Mental Health 708 Board Gayle Conrady; Paula Street, Adm. Asst.
State Farm: www.statefarm.com Kenny Saxe 736 N. Market St. Mount Carmel 263-3663
Dan Schonert 510 Market St. Mount Carmel 263-3313 Corporate America Family Credit Union 1011 Oak St. Mount Carmel 263-3883 www.cafcu.org Wabash Savings Bank 400 Chestnut St. Mount Carmel 263-3276
Taxing Bodies in Wabash County
Road District #1 Chris Cusick, commissioner Charles K. Sanders, clerk Road District #2 David E. VanWormer, Jr., commissioner Edna Mae Skidmore, clerk Road District #3 Derek Guisewite, commissioner Edward L. Riggs, clerk Road District #4 Roy Berberich, commissioner Kelly D. Berberich, clerk Road District #5 James R. Kensler, commissioner Colleen Kensler, Clerk Road District #6 David Gill, commissioner Kathy Gill, Clerk School District #348 Supt. Tim Buss School District #17 Supt. Bob Bowser IECC District #529 Roger Browning, CFO
Wabash County Cooperative Extension Adam Feig Museum District Tommy R. Young II, treasurer
Illinois State Representative
David Reis
“Welcome to Wabash County and the 109th District!”
Paid for by Citizens for David Reis
Page 26— Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Taxes
Property is assessed by the Supervisor of Assessments, who must follow Illinois State Statutes to determine the fair market value. There are several kinds of property taxes in Wabash County. The first is real estate, a tax based on the fair market value of the property and the rates set by the taxing districts. Farmland is assessed according to its soil type and its productivity under average management. The values assigned to it are also sent to the local assessment officer from the Illinois Department of Revenue after an extensive study of various factors, such as gross and net income, production cost and interest rates. Minerals, such as coal and oil, are assessed by the amount of coal mined or barrels of oil produced.
Another tax is called the privilege tax, this is a tax placed on mobile homes. The tax is assessed to the owner of the mobile home as of Jan. 1, and is collected in the same year, where the real estate tax is assessed one year and payable the next year. The privilege tax is calculated on the year and size of the mobile home, and is paid in one installment, typically in June or July. After all assessments are determined, a tentative abstract is completed by the Supervisor of Assessments and sent to the Department of Revenue for them to issue a tentative multiplier. After all assessment complaints are filed with the local Board of Review, and all decisions are made, a final abstract is completed by the county clerk and sent to the Department of Revenue for the state to
issue a final multiplier to the county. This multiplier is to keep counties throughout the state of Illinois equitable with assessments of 33 1/3 of market value. The tax rate is then calculated by the county clerk according to the amount of money each taxing district has asked for and is lawfully allowed to collect. This rate is then applied to the net taxable value of the property after any applicable exemptions are subtracted, leaving an amount of tax due. The county treasurer sets the due date for payment of taxes, which are payable in two equal installments. The tax bills are printed and turned over to the treasurer to mail to each property owner. The treasurer will collect the taxes due and distribute the tax money
to the taxing districts. Taxes collected are used to provide many services in Wabash County, including schools, fire departments, police, hospital, library, museum and county roads, as well as to help finance the operation of local government offices. For more information, call or visit one of these offices, all located in the Wabash County Courthouse, corner of 4th and Market streets, in Mt. Carmel: Wabash County Treasurer Beverly McBride 618-262-5262
Wabash County residents who are 18 years or older can register to vote year round, except during the 28 day period just prior to an election and during the 2 day period after each election. Forms are available at the Wabash County Clerk’s office. Office, hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, phone 262-4561. Forms are also available from precinct committeemen, at Wabash Valley College and at Mount Carmel High School. When a person applies for services at the Driver’s License Branch, Department of Public Aid and Department of Public Health, they can obtain the forms there as well. Upon registration, residents need to bring one form of identification displaying a current address. The only time potential voters need to re-register is in the case of a change of name. If a change of
residence is made, but the move is made to somewhere in Wabash County, call 2624561 and report the address change. You are officially registered to vote when you have received your voter ID card in the mail. If you do not receive an ID Card within three weeks after registering, call 262-4561. Effective Jan. 1, 2014: A person who is 17 years old on the date of a primary election and who is otherwise qualified to vote, may vote in the primary if that person will be 18 on the date of the immediately following general election (Public Act 98-0051). Also, in 2014 a new law allowed voters to register to vote or to update their registration online. Implementation of the Paperless Online Voter Application system was July 1. Polling Places Mount Carmel 01 & 04: First Baptist Church, 118 West 6th St.
Mount Carmel 02, 03 & 06: Evangelical United Methodist, 2010 North Cherry Mount Carmel 05 and 09: WAVE Production Building, 1310 West 3rd St. Mount Carmel 07: Community Church of God, 1532 College Drive Mount Carmel 08: 4-H Center Annex, 15039 4-H Center Lane Wabash 10: Allendale Community Center, 310 East Main St., Allendale Friendsville 11 & Lancaster 12: Lancaster Church of Christ, Lancaster Lick Prairie 13 & Bellmont 14: Bellmont Community Center, Bellmont Coffee 15 & Compton 16: Keensburg Christian Church, Keensburg Absentee Voting Residents can vote absentee if proper steps have been taken. First, obtain an application for absentee ballot from the Wabash County Clerk’s office, either by mail or in person.
Second, complete the application; it includes your name, home address and the address where you wish the ballot to be mailed. For a primary election, a party ballot must be designated. Please be sure to sign the application. Third, after the application has been completed, either mail it or deliver it to your election authority. Finally, once you receive the ballot, vote the ballot in secret. Insert the ballot into the envelope provided, seal it, complete and sign the certification on the back and personally return it or mail it. A new law in effect this coming year does away with what was called absentee voting, it is now vote by mail voting and early voting. Also, voters will be able to register to vote or change their address in the County Clerk’s office on Election Day.
Voter Registration
Wabash County Supervisor of Assessments Deborah Gittings 618-262-4463 Wabash County Clerk Janet Will 618-262-4561
County
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 27
Legislators Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner Springfield — Office of the Governor, 207 State House, Springfield, IL 62706. Phone 217-782-0244. TTY: 888-261-3336. Chicago — Office of the Governor, James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph, 16-100, Chicago, IL 60601. Phone 312-814-2121. Web site: http://www.illinois.gov/gov/
U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) Washington, D.C. — 711 Hart Senate Bldg., Washington, DC 20510. Phone 202-224-2152. Fax 202-228-0400. Springfield — 525 South 8th St., Springfield, IL 62703. Phone 217-492-4062. Fax 217-492-4382. Carbondale — 250 W. Cherry St., Suite 115-D, Carbondale, IL 62901. Phone 618-351-1122. Fax 618-351-1124. Web site: http://durbin.senate.gov/ U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Illinois) Chicago — 230 South Dearborn, Suite 3900, Chicago, IL 60604. Phone 312886-3506. Fax 312-886-2117. Springfield — 607 E. Adams, Suite 1520, Springfield, IL 62701. Phone 217492-5089. Fax 217-492-5099. Washington, D.C. — 524 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington DC, 20510. Phone 202-224-2854. Fax 202-228-4611. Web site: http://kirk.senate.gov/ U.S. Rep. John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15) Washington, D.C. — 2217 Rayburn HOB, Washington, DC 20515. Phone 202225-5271. Fax 202-225-5880. Harrisburg — 110 E. Locust St. Room 12, Harrisburg, IL 62946. Phone 618252-8271. Fax 618-252-8317. Effingham — 101 North 4th Street, Suite 303, Effingham, IL 62401. Phone 217-347-7947. Fax: 217-342-1219. Web site — http://shimkus.house.gov/
State Sen. Dale Righter (R, Mattoon-55) Springfield — 309 M Statehouse Springfield, IL 62706 Phone 217-782-6674. Fax 217-782-7818. Mattoon — 88 Broadway Avenue, Suite 1, Mattoon, IL 61938. Phone 217-2356033. Fax 217-235-6052. Web site — www. dalerighter.com
State Rep. David Reis (R, Ste. Marie-109) Springfield — 632 Capitol Building, Springfield, IL 62706. Phone 217-7822087. Fax 217-557-0571 Olney — 219 E. Main St., P.O. Box 189, Olney, IL 62450. Phone 618-392-0108. Fax 618-392-0107. Web site — www.davidreis.org
631 Walnut Street
Mt. Carmel, IL
618-262-8714 BRAKES • ALIGNMENTS TUNE UPS • TRANSMISSIONS • COMPUTER DIAGNOSTICS • ALL TYPES OF REPAIRS
Page 28 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Legal services
Koger & Bramlet PC Eric Bramlet 316 North Market St. Mount Carmel 263-3502 Rhine Ernest LLP Joseph F. Vargo Kelli Storckman 631 North Market St. Mount Carmel 262-8611
Law Office of George W. Woodcock George W. Woodcock 120 E. 5th St. Mount Carmel 262-5131 Farrar & Brian 415 N. Market St. Mount Carmel 263-3846
C. Michael Witters 1001 Oak St. Mount Carmel 262-8725
William Easton, Jr. 1001 North Market St. Mount Carmel 618-450-2126
Tom Price 801 West Ninth St. #101 Mount Carmel 263-6591
Physicians, Surgeons & Chiropractic Doctors
Wabash General Hospital Hematology/Oncology Maqbool Ahmed, M.D. 1306 College Drive Mount Carmel 263-3700 Wabash Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Julko E. Fullop, M.D. Justin Miller, M.D. Orthopaedic surgeon Karsten Slater, M.D. CAQ-SM 1527 College Drive Mount Carmel 263-6400 S.B. Jani, M.D. Alicia Kinsolving, PA-C 1106 Oak St. Mount Carmel 263-6575 Lawrence P. Jennings, M.D. 1430 College Drive, Suite A Mount Carmel 262-5113 Wabash Primary Care Associates, PC Narendra Anadkat, M.D. Diane DeStephano, ACNP-BC 1123 Chestnut St., Mount Carmel 263-4376 Dr. Richard Oppeltz, M.D. 1430 College Drive, Suite B Mount Carmel 263-6190 Marlon Jordan, M.D. FACC Ketan C Cardiology 812-471-0944
Kallie Allender, FNP-PC Convenient Care Clinic 263-6363 Orthopaedics and Convenient Care Clinic Tori Barnes, PA-C Julia Corwin, PA-C Chelsea Hon, PA-C Carol Weiler, PA-C 263-6400 Chriopractic:
Mount Carmel Chiropractic Clinic, S.C. Virgil L. Potts, D.C. 616 North Market St. Mount Carmel 262-2225
Kennard Clinic of Chiropractic Dr. Tara Kennard 827 Chestnut St. Mount Carmel 262-2222 Alka Family Chiropractic Center Kay Lynn Alka, D.C. 903 West Third St. Mount Carmel 262-4994 Dental:
G. Andrew Fischer, D.M.D. The Smile Center 1114 Oak St. Mount. Carmel 262-5564
Comprehensive Dental Care David R. Miller, DDS Bryce L Miller, DMD James W. Henning, DDS 325 East 13th St. Mount Carmel 263-6555 Optometry:
The Vision Center Timothy M. Brown, O.D. 715 Walnut St. Mount Carmel 263-3165
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 29
Chamber of Commerce
The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce strives to make Wabash County a great place to live, work and relax. It assist businesses, organizations and individuals with many needs. It is a private non-profit organization funded primarily by dues paid by members, businesses, sponsorships and events held throughout the year. It is not a
government agency and receives no tax dollars. The Chamber Office is the center of communication for community events. It updates the Community Calendar that is on the City and Chamber website. It is also printed in the local newspaper on a weekly basis. Each year the Chamber hosts the 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 Mount Carmel, Illinois. Phone: (618) 262 5116.
Your home is your most valuable material possession. Losing it would be catastrophic. To protect both yourself and your family from tragedy, let us show you how Thanks to economical all those home-owners insurance can be. Remember, when it comes who keep right down it waving… to it,. you can’t afford to be without it.
United Mutual Insurance Company
Veterans’ Day is a time to say thanks to all those who have sacrificed to keep our country strong.
.
Join us in a prayer for the safe return of the soldiers who continue to keep America safe.
.
. .
14 N. 4th St., Albion • 445-2306 1.888.999.9496 .
Page 30 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Wabash County Chamber Membership
3 Girls & A Swirl 89.1 The Bash AAG Properties LLC Addus Health Care ADG/Architecture & 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 Wabash Co. Housing Authority 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. 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 Mount Carmel Chiropractic Clinic Mount Carmel Fire Dept. Mount Carmel Lions Club Mount Carmel Public Library Mount Carmel Public Utility Co. Mount Carmel Rural King Mount Carmel Stabilization Grp. 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 Wagon Wheel 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.
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 31
Transportation
RIDES Mass Transit District Wabash County joined the RIDES Mass Transit District in 1998. RIDES provides public transportation in 18 counties, including: Crawford, Jasper, Richland, Lawrence, Wabash, Edwards, Wayne, Hamilton, White, Gallatin, Saline,
Pope, Hardin, Cumberland, Edgar, Clark, Effingham and Williamson. RMTD has both school routes and fixed routes in this area daily. Citizens may also contact the local county dispatch and schedule transportation. Also, regular routes are run from
Mount Carmel to and from neighboring communities like Olney, West Salem, Grayville and Evansville. Cash fares, discount tickets and transit passes are available. Low income services are also available — contact the local RMTD dispatch office if you feel
you may qualify. The Wabash County RIDES office is located at 930 N. Market St. in Mount Carmel. For more details on RIDES services, contact the dispatch center at 1-618375-7126, or toll-free at 1-877667-6118. You can also visit www.ridesmtd.com.
County Commissioners
Serving The Citizens of
WABASH COUNTY
Derek Morgan Sheriff
Janet Will County Clerk
Larry Hodgson Coroner
Angie Crum Circuit Clerk
State’s Attorney
Cassandra Goldman
William C. Hudson
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
Page 32— Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Local Government
Wabash County Commissioners 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 Rob Dean, Robie W. Thompson and Tim Hocking. 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. Allendale Village Board The board meets the second Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
President of the Board is Timothy Grounds. Clerk is Melody Walker. Trustees are Charles Stoltz, Ellen Grounds, Rodney Loeffler, Damon Banks and Jeff Homan. Village Superintendent is Rick Medler, Village Employee is Bryan Loeffler and Debra Lashbrook is treasurer. Bellmont Village Board The board meets the second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Larry Sloss is the mayor. Board members are Mike Berberich, Peggy Walling, Martha Eads, Janice Lance, Seikura S. Burton and Zoella Berberich. Clerk/Treasurer is Patty Rigg. Keensburg Village Board The Keensburg Town Board meets the third Wednesday of every month in the Village Hall at 6:30 p.m. Board president is Shawn Perry. Beverly McBride is clerk/treasurer. Trustees are Barbara Carrie, Michael McBride,
Jennifer Martin, Ronald Hoffman, Kenneth Bosecker and Christie Perry. Water superintendent is Tony Rice. Mount Carmel City Council The city council meets every other Monday at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers at Mount Carmel City Hall. The council consists of Bill Hudson, Mayor Eric D. Ikemire, Streets, Cemetery & Parks Commissioner, Rod Rodriguez, Fire, Health Safety, City Hall, Garbage and Civil Defense Commissioner, Justin Dulgar, Water and Sewer Commissioner Joe Judge Finances and Senior Citizens Commissioner Other city Officials and Department Heads: Rudy Witsman, city clerk
Tom Price, City Attorney Mike Gidcumb, City Inspector Georgia Vaught, Treasurer Mick Mollenhauer, Comptroller John Lockhart, Chief of Police Francis Speth, Fire Chief David Easter, Streets, Recreation, Cemetery and Levees Support Mary Duckett, Water Plant Director Josh Peach, Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator Bill Reed, Water/Waste Water Maintenance Operator Twilla Coon, Librarian Rick Bobbitt, Municipal Golf Course Manager Ken Wood, Airport Manager Tracy Dunkel, Senior Citizens Director
Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016 —Page 33
History of Wabash County Allendale The Village of Allendale was surveyed and platted in May of 1869, by Robert Buchanan, the county surveyor. The land where Allendale stands today was already owned by William B. Smith and his heir. In the late 1860’s, when the proposal for a new railroad line came about, entrepreneurs and businessmen saw the chance to make a profit. Allendale had a sawmill, school, post office and Farmers National Bank, which became the First National Bank on April 10, 1918. Today Allendale is home to churches, Allendale Community Consolidated School District 17, the Ruritan Club and the Allendale Masonic Lodge. Bellmont In 1875, the plan was laid out for the Village of Bellmont. The railroad ran from Mount Carmel to Albion. As settlers kept coming, they had to have a place to build, so Bellmont started to form. About 1900, a tin factory brought jobs and many inhabitants with it. This is when Bellmont’s population was at its peak. The 1940’s oil boom brought people in from all over the U.S. The town’s people began renting rooms out to their guests because of the shortages of housing. Bellmont had a high school at one time. Bellmont’s elementary school was closed in 2002. It served students from kindergarten to fourth grade. The village also has two churches the Bellmont United Methodist Church and Bellmont Christian Church. Keensburg Keensburg was once a bustling community. It included several businesses, including grocery stores, filling stations, doctors, a blacksmith shop, a grain elevator and oil rigs. Today businesses include Timberlake Furniture, Hocking Green Thumb, Keensburg Café and a part of RAG Inc. Coal Mine. It also is home to Beall Woods State Park. It has two churches, the Keensburg Christian Church and the Keensburg Pentecostal Church. Lancaster The first permanent settlers in what was to become Lancaster precinct arrived in 1814, four years before Illinois statehood. As early as 1815, William Jordan put up a distillery and made corn whiskey, and John Arnold built the first horse mill. Benjamin Reynolds also operated a horse mill and ran a distillery on his farm. Lancaster was, in its heyday during the late 1800s, a town of about 250 people with several stores that did good business. Some of the businesses were a two-story flour and grist mill, blacksmith shops, wagon making store, a hotel and millinery shop. Mount Carmel Mount Carmel was founded by a trio of Methodist ministers: the Revs. William Beauchamp, Thomas Hinde and William McDowell. They met in Chilliothe, Ohio, where they envisioned a Christian Community that could be grounded in religious and moral principles. Beauchamp surveyed and plotted Mount Carmel in
1817-1818. Articles of Association were drafted and put on record Sept. 21, 1818, the same year Illinois became a state. Article 18 reads, “No theater or playhouse shall ever be built within the bounds of the city. No person shall be guilty of drunkenness, profane swearing or cursing. Sabbath-breaking, or who shall keep disorderly house, shall gamble, or suffer gambling in his house, or raise a riot in the city, or be guilty of any other crime of greater magnitude, etc., he shall be subject to trial by the court or mayor.” The city of Mount Carmel has had more than its share of reverses coupled with its history of rise and progress. Twice the city has been scourged by flames, in each instance aggregating in losses of hundreds of thousands of dollars. The great floods of 1875 and 1876 caused immense losses, but the most serious calamity that has befallen it was the storm of June 4, 1877, which demolished a large portion of the city and killed 14 people. Some famous people from Mount Carmel include baseball legend Don Liddle; defensive football star for the Detroit Lions Gil Mains; radio’s Lone Ranger, Brace Beemer; actor John Short; and former journalist for “Good Morning America” Nancy Dussault. Palmyra Old Palmyra is an important, mostly forgotten part of Edwards County, Wabash County and Illinois history. Today there are few traces of its existence, mostly broken fragments of brick and daub, or brick and stone from fireplaces in this long-abandoned pioneer community. Palmyra started as a trading post for the French fur traders in 1789. Before then it had been a Native American village of the Piankeshaws. Many furs were purchased or traded from the Native Americans and white trappers. The town was located on a sandy ridge just north of where Crawfish Creek enters the Wabash River on the Big Bend, about two miles north of present-day Mount Carmel. There was a spring of water which flowed out of a rocky outcrop into the Wabash River. Today that spring is covered by soil.
Page 34 — Guide to Wabash County, Winter 2015/2016
Efficiency (and Comfort) Expert.
SAVE
ENERGY
Your Carrier® dealer. He’s an expert at getting the most from your heating and cooling system. Whether you’re looking for a new state-of-the-art system or just want your current heating and cooling system to perform at its peak your Carrier dealer; Sharp and Williams knows how to deliver the comfort and efficiency you need, regardless of your current system or budget for a new unit. So make the most comfortable decision from the start, Call Sharp and Williams.
SHARP & WILLIAMS Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Geothermal Energy 202 W. 9th Street
618-263-3231 Mt. Carmel, IL
©CARRIER CORPORATION 2/2014. A unit of United Technologies Corporation. Stock symbol UTX.