http://www.bentongazette.com/news/local-genealogist-seeks-to-clean-up-old-benton-cemetery/article_088333c2-a5f4-11e7-ba3a-3739b4f582ce.html

BENTON, IL –  (William McPherson, Benton Gazette.  Please click on the link for the full story.  Here is an excerpt below.)

Pam Teague works as a genealogist at the Benton Public Library where she spends her days helping visitors from around the area reconnect to their past. For the past few weeks Pam has been researching the “Old Benton Cemetery” now known as Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, located behind the American Legion building just behind South Main Street. She says she was particularly distressed to find it referred to as an “abandoned cemetery” in some local records she dug up.

(William McPherson – Benton Gazette Photo

Many longtime Benton residents may remember when the cemetery, founded in 1831, and which holds Franklin County military veterans dating back to the Revolutionary War to the Civil War (both union and confederate) and beyond, was open to the public. However, back in the 90s, due to excessive vandalism a fence was constructed and the property has since been closed off except for special occasions such as the upcoming Veteran’s Day ceremonies that the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars arrange.

by Steve Dunford

BENTON, IL –  There have been social media posts and I overheard a conversation in a local store over the weekend of not having anything to do in Southern Illinois.

Chuck Dunford has recently acquired Arena Gaming Center on East Main in Benton, next to Joes Pizza.

The business is a LAN arcade.  There are several computer monitors, a digital jukebox that works with a cell phone or tablet and a pool table.

I went and checked the business out last week, as my cousin fed me, and we watched the Cardinals that night.   The lights in the place enhance the atmosphere.  This 47 year old would not mind going up and playing some games one day.

Rates are set by the hour.  There are special events, as well as they will host birthday parties.

Outside food and drink is not allowed, but snacks is at a reasonable price.  Chuck says “They are cheaper than a baby sitter. ”

He also told me this is a regional business, and he would like to reach people beyond Benton.  “There is not a place like this in Southern Illinois,” he said. 

For further information please call 200-4263 to book parties and for prices.  Here is a link to the Facebook page with more information, rates, and special events will be posted.   https://www.facebook.com/Arenalangaming/