Wabash County Commissioners Hear Various Reports

Wabash County Commissioners met Monday evening, opening the meeting by recognizing the efforts of local road crews and first responders during last week’s winter storm.

Commissioners thanked highway workers, police, fire departments, WEMA, and emergency responders for working together to keep residents safe. Officials noted the Mt. Carmel Fire Department averaged about four first-responder calls per day during the worst conditions.

Highway Engineer Dustin Bunting reported crews were busy with snow removal and appreciated the public staying off the roads. He said cleanup and sanding continue in slick areas. Bunting also shared plans for upcoming bridge inspections and discussed right-of-way needs for a bridge on 700 East. He noted one snowplow was briefly damaged after sliding into a ditch, but damage appears minor. Bunting also announced the county purchased a surplus loader bucket from the City of Mt. Carmel to replace aging equipment.

Health Department Administrator Judy Wissel said respiratory illnesses remain high, with vaccinations and after-hours clinics ongoing. She also announced an opening for a registered nurse and noted the Department of Human Services is affected by the current government shutdown.

Treasurer Angela Broster reminded residents the second installment of property taxes is due Monday, February 9th. Payments received by the end of business day — or placed in the drop box before the next morning — will avoid penalties. Broster reported more than 80 percent of the tax levy has been collected.

Sheriff Derek Morgan reported only three weather-related slide-offs during the storm, calling it an unusually low number and crediting motorists for staying home when possible.

County Clerk Janet Will announced primary election ballots have been finalized, with early voting and vote-by-mail beginning Thursday, February 5th.

Commissioners also accepted a $3,600 dividend check from the HOPE Trust, presented by Snedeker Risk Management, reflecting strong performance of the county’s employee health plan.

The board declined to move forward with a resolution regarding a federal school scholarship tax credit and unanimously approved a designation recognizing Discover Downstate Illinois Tourism as the county’s certified tourism bureau for fiscal year 2026.

Commissioners also approved routine budget adjustments for 2025, noting increased revenues and lower-than-expected expenses compared to previous years.

MCGS Student Makes Case For Warning Sign

A Mt. Carmel Grade School student took his concerns straight to City Hall Monday afternoon.

Fourth grader Jonah Bisby addressed the Mt. Carmel City Council, asking the city to consider installing a pedestrian warning sign at the intersection of Oak and Poplar Streets near the school. Mayor Joe Judge invited Jonah to speak after meeting with him earlier this month about bike and pedestrian safety in the area.

Jonah told the council he often rides his bike to school and worries about cars not yielding at the busy intersection. He explained that the crossing is frequently used by students and pedestrians and suggested a pedestrian warning sign with a rectangular rapid flashing beacon. Jonah shared that the button-activated, solar-powered system could significantly reduce pedestrian crashes and increase driver awareness.

He also came prepared with research, outlining estimated costs for the sign, pole, and labor, and even brought a picture of the type of system he was proposing.

Mayor Judge and council members praised Jonah for his preparation and presentation. Judge said the city will review the proposal, confirm that any sign meets Illinois Department of Transportation requirements, and conduct a traffic study before moving forward.

Judge thanked Jonah for speaking up and said the city will follow up with his family after the review process.

New “Still a DUI” Campaign Targets Rising Misconceptions on Cannabis-Impaired Driving Among Youth

SPRINGFIELD, ILL.— The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association (ISA) has launched a public education initiative aimed at addressing a growing and dangerous myth: that driving after using cannabis is safer, legal, or somehow less risky than driving drunk. The message of the campaign is clear and direct: if you’re high, don’t drive, because it’s still a DUI.

“Impaired is impaired, but too often drivers under the influence of cannabis are making a selfish choice that puts them, their passengers, and the public at tremendous risk,” said Jim Kaitschuk, ISA executive director. “Our message is simple: if you’re impaired from cannabis and need to get somewhere, call an Uber, call a friend, call your mom, but do not get behind the wheel if you’re under the influence.”

Recent data underscores the growing severity of the issue, in one sample, 40% of drivers killed in traffic crashes have had active THC in their system, demonstrating that cannabis impairment has real, life-altering consequences. Sheriffs from across Illinois stress that the long-held societal stance against drunk driving must extend to cannabis-impaired driving as usage increases. Every day, Illinois law enforcement responds to crashes caused by impaired driving.

“These crashes don’t have to happen. We are all empowered to make the right choice. We are grateful to the families who bravely shared their stories so others might be spared the same heartbreak of losing a loved one to a cannabis DUI.”

The campaign features Illinois families whose loved ones were killed by a driver impaired by marijuana:

· George Harvey died when a 19‑year‑old impaired driver caused a fatal crash, leaving his pregnant wife and young daughters without their father. · Mia Dusek, just 15, was killed during what should have been a routine outing with family friends. · Bethany Baker was a passenger, trusting the driver she was with to get her home safely, but the driver, impaired by cannabis, swerved and lost control of his truck.

These stories directly rebut the myth that cannabis impaired driving is safer or less risky than alcohol-related DUIs, anchor the campaign’s central hub, www.stilladui.org, and YouTube channel.

Families like Bethany’s, Mia’s, and George’s live with heartbreak because someone thought “it’s just weed.” It’s not “just weed” when lives are lost.

The materials are designed to be quick, visual, and accessible, allowing content to be shared to encourage individuals to think twice before getting behind the wheel or letting someone impaired by cannabis drive. The ISA encourages the public, especially teens, parents, educators, and community partners, to use and share these resources.

“Changing norms takes time and requires us to confront the misinformation,” Kaitschuk said. “It took decades to make drunk driving socially unacceptable. We must move just as urgently to change perceptions about cannabis-impaired driving, and it starts by having real conversations with our family and friends.”

The Illinois DUI Prevention and Education Fund paid for the campaign and initiative.

Kentucky woman arrested for OWI

On February 2, 2026, at 12:56 p.m. Gibson County Deputy Michael Owens was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident in the 200 block of West Main Street in Francisco.  Upon arriving Deputy Owens observed that a Toyota Camry had rearended a semi-trailer.  While speaking with the driver of the Camry Deputy Owens detected multiple clues that the driver may be impaired.  At that point he began a roadside DUI investigation that resulted in the driver 45-year-old Kristi Meyerholtz of Stanton, Kentucky being taken into custody.  Ms. Meyerholtz was transported to the Gibson County Detention Center where she was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated. 
 
Deputy U.B. Smith assisted in this case. 
 
All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Lincoln Amphitheatre Announces 39th Season Following Record-Setting Year

The Lincoln Amphitheatre today announced the majority of its 2026 performance season, marking the venue’s 39th year of live entertainment in the heart of Abraham Lincoln’s boyhood home. The announcement follows a landmark 2025 season — the first after a major infrastructure and seating expansion — that delivered the highest attendance and revenue totals in more than a decade.

 “Last year’s growth confirmed what we’ve long believed: when you invest in a place that matters, people show up,” said Amy Howell, Indiana Destination Development Corporation Interim CEO. “We’re excited to build on that momentum with a 2026 season that offers something for everyone.”

 The 2026 lineup, presented by the Spencer County Community Foundation and the Perry County Community Foundation, features a mix of nationally touring artists, regional favorites, and family‑friendly programming, continuing the Amphitheatre’s mission to provide high‑quality entertainment in one of Indiana’s most unique outdoor venues. The upcoming performance series will feature CMA, ACM, and CMT award winning country hitmakers Sawyer Brown, two-time GRAMMY winners The Wallflowers, former Journey lead singer Steve Augeri, and some of the best nationally-known touring tribute bands in the country. 

 One additional national act 2026 date will be announced soon.

 Performances will run from May through October, with tickets available and on sale now at www.LincolnAmphitheatre.com.

 To this point, the 2026 Performance Series includes:

• Saturday, May 16:  Johnny Folsom 4 – a tribute to Johnny Cash

• Sunday, May 17:  Johnny Folsom 4 (Sunday Amp Unplugged)

• Saturday, May 30:  Hollywood Nights – the Bob Seger Experience

• Saturday, June 6:  Face 2 Face – a tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel

• Saturday, June 13:  Thunderstruck – America’s AC/DC tribute

• Thurs. – Sat., June 25-27:  Pioneer Song: a Celebration of Lincoln Amphitheatre Musicals

• Saturday, July 11:  Former Lead Singer of Journey Steve Augeri

• Saturday, August 15:  TUSK – the classic tribute to Fleetwood Mac

• Saturday, August 29:  The Wallflowers – Bringing Down the Horse 30th Anniversary Tour

• Saturday, September 5:  Sawyer Brown

• Saturday, September 12:  On the Border – the ultimate Eagles tribute

• Sunday, September 13:  On the Border (Sunday Amp Unplugged)

 “Each season is an opportunity to bring people together in a setting that’s unlike anywhere else in Indiana,” Marc Steczyk, Lincoln Amphitheatre’s director said. “We’re proud of what this venue represents and incredibly grateful for the support that keeps it thriving.”

 The Lincoln Amphitheatre is a state‑owned, state‑supported facility managed by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation. Located within Lincoln State Park, the 2,200‑seat venue sits in the vacinity of Abraham Lincoln’s boyhood home.  Individual tickets for each of the announced 2026 Lincoln Amphitheatre events are on sale now at www.LincolnAmphitheatre.com or directly at https://tinyurl.com/LincolnAmp2026.  Each ticket price is inclusive of concert admission, parking, facility, and service charges, as well as Lincoln State Park’s gate fee. 

2nd Tax Installment Due Next Week

Wabash County Treasurer, Angie Broster, wanted to announce that the 2024 Pay 2025 Real Estate second installment due date is on Monday, February 9, 2026.

If you have not paid the first installment there is a 1.5% penalty fee added to the first payment amount. Please contact the Treasurer’s office at 262-5262 if you have any questions.

Payments may be made in person at the Treasurer’s office or you may use the drop box in front of the Courthouse. Credit Card payments can be made online at www.govtechtaxpro.com.

You may also make payments at the First Mid Bank, First Bank and First National Bank Allendale & Mt. Carmel branches on Second Installments only.

If you have any questions or concerns about your tax bill, please feel free to contact our office.

City Council Reviews Winter Storm Response Efforts

Monday afternoon’s meeting of the Mt. Carmel City Council marked the first gathering since the massive winter storm that hit the area over the weekend of January 24th.

Mayor Joe Judge opened the meeting by thanking the city’s public works crews for their long hours and dedication as they worked through what he called one of the most challenging snow events the city has faced in years. Judge said crews made steady progress clearing roads and emphasized how much it helped when residents kept vehicles off the streets during the storm.

Judge also thanked city staff who braved the cold and snow to keep City Hall open, noting that trash pickup delays are an unfortunate reality after a storm of that magnitude. He told residents that collection will resume as soon as conditions allow.

Streets Commissioner Tyson Meador echoed the mayor’s comments, saying crews prepared for, plowed, and salted throughout the storm. Meador also expressed appreciation to Public Utility crews who provided equipment and trucks to help haul snow, calling their assistance a big help.

Fire Commissioner Susan Zimmerman reported that the Mt. Carmel Fire Department has been extremely busy since the storm. She said firefighters responded to 32 calls over the past week, primarily assisting ambulance crews through auto-aid responses.

City Engineer Dave Dallas, who has worked with the city for decades, said the recent storm rivals some of the biggest snowfalls he remembers from the late 1970s. Dallas praised city crews for what he described as a remarkable job handling the historic snowfall.

Mayor Judge closed the discussion by again commending city employees and residents for working together to get Mt. Carmel back to normal.

Illinois Extension’s local Hunters Feeding Illinois program provides over 2,600 pounds of venison to area food pantries

ALBION, Ill. – Illinois Extension serving Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties marked the end of the 2025-2026 deer hunting season with the success of the local Hunters Feeding Illinois program. Over 2,600 pounds of venison were donated to food pantries this fall and winter to support food access within local communities.

 Hunters Feeding Illinois provides food pantries with ground venison from hunters who’ve donated their legally harvested deer. Illinois Extension facilitates this program in partnership with participating meat processors and with the support of donors, program partners, and deer hunters.

 “This program is really all about making connections,” said SNAP-Ed Educator Alizah Harper, who spearheaded the program. “Hunters want to give back, local donors are willing to cover processing costs, and food pantries need quality protein. When these efforts come together, it helps meet local needs and ensures families in our communities have additional access to nutritious food.”

 This year’s partnering processors, Charlie’s Deer Processing and Smokehouse in Bridgeport and Legacy Meats in Sumner, processed a total of 83 deer donations during the deer hunting seasons. The capacity to accept 83 deer donations was made possible by monetary donations, which covered the processing cost of each deer.

 In total, 2,698 pounds of ground venison, which is an estimated 10,792 servings, were delivered to five food pantries within the Feeding Illinois food bank network in Lawrence, Richland, and Wabash counties. Extension also provided resources such as cookbooks, educational handouts, hot pads, and meat mashers to help food pantry patrons incorporate venison into their meals.

 “Hunters Feeding Illinois is a powerful example of how Illinois Extension brings communities together to meet real needs,” said County Extension Director Tara Buerster. “Through the generosity of local hunters, community partners, and donors, alongside our partnering processors, we were able to turn a successful hunting season into nutritious food for families who need it most across our area.”

 To learn more about Hunters Feeding Illinois, visit go.illinois.edu/HuntersFeedingIllinois. For questions about the local program, contact the Edwards County Extension Office by calling 618-445-2934.

ILLINOIS STATE POLICE ARRESTS BRIDGEPORT MAN FOR FIRST DEGREE MURDER ​ ​ ​

BRIDGEPORT – Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 8 Special Agents arrested 28-year-old Elijah W.D. Hooker of Bridgeport, IL after his wife was fatally shot in their residence.

 ​On January 29, 2026, the Bridgeport Police Department requested ISP’s assistance with a death investigation in the 700 block of Washington Street. Officers found the deceased victim, 37-year-old Omni Hooker, in the residence suffering from a fatal gunshot wound. Elijah Hooker was taken into custody on scene.

 ​On February 2, 2026, after a thorough investigation, ISP Special Agents presented the case to the Lawrence County State’s Attorney’s Office and the charge of First Degree Murder (Class M Felony) was filed. Elijah Hooker remains in custody at the Lawrence County Jail. There is no further information.

Wabash Valley College Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Available

Wabash Valley College (WVC) Foundation scholarship applications are now available on the WVC website. Students may apply by visiting www.iecc.edu/wvc/scholarships and navigating to the Current High School Students tab. From there, applicants will find a complete list of available Foundation scholarships.

A single application is used for all Foundation scholarships. Students are encouraged to review the scholarship list carefully to ensure the opportunities they wish to apply for are included within the application.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials:

· A written essay

· One character reference

· An official high school transcript

· An official IECC transcript, if applicable

Official IECC transcripts are provided at no cost and may be obtained by visiting the Student Services Office in Main Hall and informing staff that the transcript is for WVC scholarship application use. Some scholarships may also include additional eligibility criteria.

The deadline for all scholarship applications is March 15. Because this date falls on a Sunday, applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 16.

To be considered, applications must be complete and submitted to the Financial Aid Office by the stated deadline.

If you have any questions, please contact the Financial Aid Office at 618-262-8641.