Talk Around Town June 2025 : simplebooklet.com

3 Citizens can now address the CountyBoard at their regularly scheduled meetings(3rd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm inthe County Board room), and at specialmeetings. Fifteen minutes shall be set aside at thebeginning of each County Board meeting andeach speaker shall be allowed 3 minutes toaddress the board.How to Address the County Board or Committees Although not required, anyone wishing toaddress the Boardmay pre-register by filing acompleted “Request To Address The MadisonCounty Board and Committees" form, with theCounty Clerk’s Office no earlier than 48 hoursprior to the scheduled meeting. For more information on addressing the Boardof Committees visit the County Clerk’s website. Scan QR Codeto Register toSpeakINSIDE5RECOGNITIONCHAIRMANS LETTERHONORING SERVICE6GRAPPLING GREATNESS715SHERIFF, POLICE TEAM UP UP TOTACKLE TRASH OFFENSESMADISON COUNTY STREAMLINESCOMMUNITY RESOURCE LINE FOR FASTERACCESS TO SUPPORT SERVICESICHAMPION OF CONSERVATIONCOIRDINATOR OF THE YEARECO EXCELLENCEMADISON COUNTY GREENSCHHOLS TEAM OF THE YEAR89121413NEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTCONSULTANT TO HELP STEER COUNTYGROWTH, ECONOMIC RECYCLE COACH IS COMING TOMADISON COUNTY 164PAWS AND PREPARE: DON’T FORGETYOUR PETS THIS DISASTER SEASONOFFICIALS WARN PUBLIC ABOUTSCAMMERS POSING AS DMV ANDUTILITY WORKERSMADISON COUNTY DEPUTIESHONORED DURING NATIONALPOLICE WEEK IN WASHINGTON D.C.1718

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Sincerely,Chris SlusserMadison County ChairDear Residents, 5 This month’s edition highlights several important strides being made in the county—from economicgrowth to environmental leadership and public accountability. Madison County continues to focus on building a stronger future by approving a contract with aneconomic development consultant. This move represents a commitment to strategic planning and long-term investment in the region’s growth and prosperity. In local education, we are proud to spotlight the incredible efforts of our schools’ Green Teams. Thisyear’s Green Team of the Year and Coordinator of the Year were recognized for their outstandingleadership in sustainability and conservation. Their work not only benefits the environment but alsoinspires a culture of responsibility and innovation among students and staff alike. Meanwhile, the Community Development Department has updated its Housing Resource Line to betterserve residents. Instead of leaving a message, callers are now directly prompted and connected to theappropriate agency for assistance—a change designed to streamline support and get help to those whoneed it faster. In matters of environmental responsibility, Madison County and the Sheriff’s Department are followingthrough on their promise to hold trash haulers accountable, especially when it comes to deliveries tothe Roxana landfill. While not every violation results in a fine, the message is clear: accountabilitymatters. Local officials are also urging residents to stay alert amid a rise in scam activity. One recent scaminvolves fraudulent text messages instructing recipients to pay traffic tickets through suspicious links.Another scheme involves individuals impersonating utility workers to lure homeowners outside—whileaccomplices attempt to burglarize the home. Residents are reminded to stay cautious, verify identities,and report suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately. As always, we remain committed to sharing the stories that shape our community—large and small.Thank you for staying informed and engaged.

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RECOGNITION adison County Board honored retired Venice Mayor Tyrone Echols during it’s May meeting. Echols called the recognition a “three-A moment.” “I acknowledge, I accept and I do appreciate this honor,” Echols said as his voice filled with emotion as he stood before the board after he was presented with a certificate of appreciation by Chairman Chris Slusser. “I will be eternally grateful for this.” Echols shared his heartfelt words during the board meeting on May 21. Slusser recognized Echols decades of service. He honored him for his 42-year tenure as mayor in the City ofVenice, noting that he holds the distinction of being the longest-serving mayor in Madison County’s history. “It is with great pleasure that we extend our sincere appreciation to you for your 42 years of outstandingservice to the City of Venice as its mayor,” Slusser said. “Your unselfish commitment to your community, aswell as your continued sacrifice and leadership, has touched the lives of countless individuals throughout theyears—not only as mayor but as a dedicated public servant on various boards and commissions throughout thecounty and state.” Though Echols stepped down as mayor, he continues to serve the community as a member of the Venice CityCouncil. Reflecting on his career in public service, he described it as a “long and laborious” journey, but onethat was ultimately rewarding and meaningful. He expressed deep gratitude for the support of the county andthe many people he has represented over the years. Madison County congratulate Echols on all his future endeavors.MHonoring Service:Honoring Service:Retired Mayor Celebrated as Madison County’s Longest-Serving Mayor

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adison County recognized a Collinsville High School grapplerfor winning a state championshipduring its May meeting. Chairman Chris Slusser andRegional Superintendent of SchoolsRobert Werden presented CollinsvilleHigh School Senior Taylor DawsonCertificate of Recognition for winning the Illinois High SchoolAssociation 140-pound State GirlsWrestling Championship. After three seasons earning topthree finishes, Dawson finally earned the title of CHAMPION bypinning her opponent in 45 seconds.She also claimed the spot asCollinsville‘s first female wrestlingstate champion as well as the firstever Kahok state wrestling champion. Dawson finished the season at 36-3overall. For her career, she finished at142-39 overall with 105 falls. Dawsonwill continue her wrestling career atLindenwood University.MGrapplingGrapplingGreatnessGreatness Pictured left to right: Chairman Chris Slusser, Coach Jordan May, TaylorDawson Regional Superintendent Robert Werden and County Boardmember Paul Nicolussi of Collinsville. 7

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9ECO EXCELLENCEECO EXCELLENCE tudents buzzed about their eco-conscious campus at Meadowbrook Intermediate School after being named Madison County Green Schools Green Team of the Year — a recognition for a commitmentto sustainability, teamwork and environmental education. Under the passionate leadership of Cassandra Payne, a5th grade resource teacher and longtime recyclingcoordinator, the Meadowbrook Green Team transformedenvironmental learning into a hands-on, student-ledmovement that rippled throughout the school community. This year marked a major turning point for the GreenTeam. What began as a recycling initiative blossomed intoa dynamic, collaborative team effort that engaged staff and students alike. With 12 dedicated student recyclers leading charge, Meadowbrook’s weekly paper recycling programbecame a model of leadership, consistency, and inclusion. Wearing their “Meadowbrook Green Team” shirts withpride, these students became school-wide role models,showing that small acts of stewardship can make a bigimpact. The team’s strength lies in its diverse and dedicatedmembers, including EC teacher Madelyn Ehlers, who ledthe student recycling team; Lora Ruyle, STEAM teacherand contest coordinator; Madison Traband, instructionalteacher; Erica Southard, social worker and garden projectlead; and Shelby Norris, principal and enthusiasticsupporter. They often arrived 30 minutes early— to plan,reflect and organize green initiatives for the entire school. Meadowbrook Intermediate Takes Top Prize inMeadowbrook Intermediate Takes Top Prize inMadison County’sMadison County’s Green Schools ProgramGreen Schools ProgramS

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Their enthusiasm was unmistakable—every Thursday, theysmiled with pride as they collected recycling, setting anexample of community engagement and citizenship. “For the first time it feels like we’ve developed a true team,”Payne said. “Our collaboration has led to betterbrainstorming, stronger student involvement, and realprogress. Each time one of our two new clothing donation binsis emptied, a tree is planted— it’s a living symbol of ourschool’s commitment to sustainability.” Rogers said Meadowbrook Intermediate’s Green Teamexemplifies what it means to act locally while thinkingglobally. “Their efforts have not only reduced waste and saved energy—they’ve built a culture of environmental responsibility,student leadership, and community impact,” she said. “Theirstory is a model for what’s possible when a school comestogether for a greener future. On May 15, Rogers, along with County Board memberChrissy Wiley, recognized Payne and the students for winningfirst place along with a $500 prize. Congratulations to Meadowbrook Intermediate—2025Madison County Green Team of the Year! Madison County Green Schools Program CoordinatorLisa Rogers said Meadowbrook’s accomplishments thisyear were impressive and wide-ranging: • Three student-led Upcycling Project winners showcasedcreativity and reuse. • Installation of new light sensors reduced energyconsumption. • A winter coat drive helped families in need whileencouraging the reuse of materials. • A school-wide tab top collection contest-built excitementand participation. • The school hosted its 1st Earth Day Event, featuring seedplanting, edible dirt cups, a sustainability-themed read-aloud, a recycled-material bracelet station, a photo booth,and student project showcases. The Earth Day Event also introduced a new tradition — asummer fun basket raffle to raise funds for next year’sschool garden, coordinated by Mrs. Southard. Rogers said that throughout all initiatives, students wereactively involved and inspired, and it was because of Payneand the other teachers. Payne said the program especially empowered students inself-contained classrooms, who took leadership roles in therecycling program, supported by aides, teachers, and peers. 9

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Madison County Green Schools Program namesMadison County Green Schools Program names Columbus Elementary Teacher as Coordinator of the YearColumbus Elementary Teacher as Coordinator of the Year n the heart of Columbus Elementary School in Edwardsville, one educator is turning environmental education into a movement. Alicia Carrico, a dedicated teacher and the driving force behind the school’s Green Team, was namedthe Madison County Green Schools Coordinator of the Year—anhonor that recognizes her exceptional leadership, creativity, andcommitment to conservation. Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser and GreenSchools Program Coordinator Lisa Rogers showed up on May 20 inthe gymnasium with fourth and fifth grade students to surpriseCarrico as the winner of this year's honor of being namedcoordinator of the year. For Carrico what began as a modest idea to engage students in conversations about the environment has blossomed into a thriving, school-wide initiative that’s not only changing behavior but shaping a culture of environmental responsibility. Under Carrico’s guidance, the Columbus Elementary Green Team has become a model of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Throughout the 2024-2025school year, she’s led a team of fourth and fifth graders in monthly meetings where they tackled pressing environmental issues—from plastic pollution to future forward design—turning learning into action. These discussions translated into hands-on projects with real impact: Holiday Light Recycling Drive: Encouraged the proper disposal of string lights to reduce landfill waste.Tab Top Collection for Ronald McDonald HouseCharities: A creative competition between classes thatcombined fun and philanthropy.Plastic Cap Collection: A community-wide effort to collect 200pounds of caps, aiming to transform waste into a “BuddyBench” on the playground—a lasting symbol of friendship andinclusion. But Carrico didn’t stop at recycling. She brought environmentaleducation to life through events that captured the imagination ofstudents and staff alike. CHAMPION OFCONSERVATION I

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During the school’s first-ever America Recycles Day FashionShow, students strutted the “green carpet” in clothing made entirelyfrom recycled materials. The event wasn’t just entertaining — it wastransformative, helping students see waste as a resource andthemselves as innovators. Carrico also championed Columbus Elementary’s participation ina range of county-wide competitions—from recycled art contests toclean air campaigns—broadening student awareness and sparkingfriendly, eco-minded rivalry. The culmination of her efforts was theschool’s vibrant Earth Week celebration, a five-day extravaganza ofdress-up themes, sculpture contests, and community challenges.Each day—Green Dream, Wildlife Wednesday, Energy Saver Day, andSuper Earth Friday—was carefully crafted to educate, engage, andempower. What makes Carrico’s achievement even more remarkable is thatshe balanced these efforts while fulfilling her full-time teachingduties. Her colleagues and school leaders describe her as a tirelessadvocate who goes above and beyond—often staying late to sortrecyclables, encourage participation, and model sustainablepractices in her daily routines. “She’s a leader in every sense,” Principal Cole Kringlen wrote inhis nomination letter. “Mrs. Carrico has fostered a culture ofenvironmental responsibility at Columbus Elementary. The GreenTeam has given students an opportunity to develop leadership skills,take pride in their school, and make a tangible impact on theircommunity.” Her work also inspires those beyond the school walls. Familieshave taken notice of the values their children are bringing home. Oneparent shared, “My daughter Mabrey now talks about reducing wasteand keeping our planet clean. She even helped create a centerpiecefrom recycled items for a school fundraiser. That’s all because ofMrs. Carrico’s influence.” Whether it’s ensuring bottle caps are clean and ready forrecycling or organizing school-wide events with joy and precision,Carrico embodies the mission of the Madison County Green SchoolsProgram. She not only teaches environmental stewardship — shelives it. Rogers said it was Carrico’s exceptional vision, unwaveringdedication and the profound impact she made on her students,colleagues and community on why she was selected as coordinator ofthe year. “She really is remarkable and dedicated in her vision for herstudents,” she said.Slusser told the students that Carrico was the top teacher out of 55schools across the county that participated in the program. “She’s No. 1 this year and that’s pretty remarkable,” he said. Carrico received a $500 award, which will help her further supportenvironmental initiatives at Columbus Elementary, continuing thelegacy of sustainability she’s so passionately built. The school alsoreceived $500 in funding. Congratulations, Alicia Carrico—and thank you for showing yourstudents what it means to lead green. 11

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The second wave of enforcement on May 20 uncovered similarissues. Of five vehicles inspected, four were taken out of service,and three overweight citations were issued, totaling $6,672 infines. Officers also handed out nine warnings for other traffic-related offenses and cited another vehicle for debris-relatedviolations under the same tarp law. Leadership Speaks on the Importance of Road Safety “These enforcement actions are about more than just writingtickets,” said Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor. “They’re about making sure the vehicles on our roads are safe—for drivers, for families, and for everyone who lives and works in our county. Whentrucks lose debris or operate unsafely, it puts lives at risk. We takethat seriously.” County Board Chairman Chris Slusser echoed Connor’ssentiment: “Keeping our roads clean and safe is a top priority forMadison County. We appreciate the collaboration among local andstate law enforcement agencies to make this operation a success. “These inspections are critical to holding violators accountableand protecting the public.” Commitment to Ongoing Safety and Keeping the CountyClean With thousands of commercial vehicles passing throughMadison County each week, these targeted enforcement actionsare expected to continue. Officials say they will keep focusing onproblem areas and unannounced inspections to ensure compliancewith state laws and to keep roadways clear of dangerous debris. rivers traveling through Madison County during the past month have noticed an increased police presencemonth along major roads. That visibility was part of two focused enforcement effortstargeting unsafe commercial vehicles, overweight loads, andunsecured debris—all in a push to make local roadways safer. On May 7, and again on May 20, multiple law enforcementagencies joined forces to conduct commercial motor vehiclesafety inspections and enforce Illinois trucking laws. The effortswere concentrated along heavily traveled corridors, including ILState Route 143, I-270, I-255, Wanda Road, Madison Avenue, andOld Alton Edwardsville Road. The operation was a joint effort between the Madison CountySheriff’s Office, Illinois State Police (Truck Team), Wood RiverPolice Department, and Roxana Police Department. Warnings, Citations, and Out-of-Service Vehicles On May 7, officers conducted 11 motor carrier inspections,resulting in three vehicles being taken out of service due toserious safety concerns. Five trucks were cited for beingoverweight, bringing in a total of $11,440 in fines, and 30 writtenwarnings were issued for various safety violations. Officers also cited three vehicles for losing debris onto theroadway, a violation of Illinois law 625 ILCS 5/15-109.1, whichrequires tarps or covers for certain loads to prevent items fromfalling. May 20: Continued Enforcement Yields More Violations DSheriff, area police team up totackle trash offenses

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n a strategic move aimed at revitalizing the local economy and attracting new business investment Madison County hired a professional economicdevelopment consultant. On May 21, the County Board approvedChairman Chris Slusser’s pick to bring on the neweconomic development consultant in a move aimedat attracting new businesses and supporting local jobcreation. Slusser said the consultant, Cathy Hamilton, willassist in crafting strategic plans, identifyinginvestment opportunities and enhancing the county’seconomic competitiveness. He said the partnershipwill help revitalize key areas and ensure long-termeconomic sustainability within the county. “This is a proactive step toward building astronger economic future for our county,” Slussersaid. “We’re excited to bring in a fresh perspectiveand a dedicated expert to help guide our economicfuture. This has been my primary focus as chairmanand we’re looking to do economic development inunconventional ways.” Hamilton brings more than 25 years ofexperience. She worked with dozens of communities,including Granite City and Wood River in Illinoisand Clayton, Richmond Heights and University City in Missouri. She also worked as a commercial realestate broker. Hamilton participated in structuring and issuing37 tax-exempt bond financings totalingapproximately $931 million in par value, and wasresponsible for directly leasing and selling office,retail, industrial properties, and land in St. Clair andMadison counties. She holds both a bachelor’s degree in speechcommunications-public relations and a master’sdegree in public administration. Slusser said Hamilton will be a good fit for thecounty. We’ve been identifying opportunities forbusiness growth and working to attract newindustries to the region, and it made sense to bringher on, he said. “Cathy and I have been meeting regularly for thepast six to nine months to develop economicdevelopment strategies,’ Slusser said. Hamilton said she is looking forward to theopportunity of working with the county. “It’s encouraging to see the county take proactivesteps to bring in new opportunities,” Hamilton said.“Madison County needs to stay competitive. Thegoal is to create jobs, support local businesses, andensure long-term prosperity for taxpayers.” New Economic Development Consultantto help steer County GrowthII13

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SERVICESMadison County StreamlinesCommunity Resource Line for FasterAccess to Support Services n an effort to streamline access to vital support services, Madison County has announced an important update to the Community Resource Line. Effective immediately, the hotline at (618) 296-5300 will no longer offer the option to leave avoicemail message. Callers will now be required to follow automated prompts to connect directlywith the appropriate agency or service provider. “This change will help reduce wait times and ensure people in urgent situations can accesssupport without unnecessary delays,” Madison County Community Development AdministratorStacey Pace said. “We’re committed to making this system more responsive and efficient for allresidents.” The Community Resource Line is a critical tool for residents experiencing housing instability,domestic violence, financial hardship, or in need of emergency or ongoing support. This updateensures faster, more direct access to help without delays caused by missed messages or callbacks.IIf you are experiencing anemergency, please hang up anddial 911 immediately.If you are facing domestic abuse,you’ll to be connected to Oasis forconfidential support.PRESS #for the Salvation Armyfor Good Samaritan Houseif you are a youth between the ages of 16and 24, for Brightpoint..f you are at risk of losing your housing or need help with rent,mortgage, deposits, or utility assistance, select the number thatmatches your location:for Madison, Venice, Granite City, PontoonBeach, Fairmont City, Collinsville,Maryville, Troy, or St. Jacob, for Hartford, Roxana, South Roxana, WoodRiver, Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Marine,Highland, Grantfork, or Pierron..for Godfrey, Alton, East Alton, Bethalto,Worden, Hamel, Livingston, Williamson,Alhambra, or New Douglas.8 if you are a Veteran.if you are a senior .Residents are encouraged to listen carefully to the menu options to ensure they are routedcorrectly. Phone numbers for partner agencies remain unchanged and are used internally to directcalls.About the Madison County Community Resource Line:The Madison County Community Resource Line connects residents to shelter, financial assistance,and supportive services. It is a collaborative effort among regional partners to ensure acoordinated response to community support needs across the region.

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adison County is getting smarter about waste — and you’re invited to be part of it. Launching soon, the Recycle Coach app will give Madison County residents the tools they need to manage waste and recycling with confidence. Whether you live in Edwardsville, Alton, Granite City or anywhere in between, this free app will bring local information straight to your phone. What is Recycle Coach? It’s a powerful tool designed to answer everyday questions like: “How can I dispose of this specific of this item?” “Where can I recycle this item?” “Where can I take old electronics or paint?” With Recycle Coach, you can:Get personalized collection remindersLearn how to properly dispose of common and unusual itemsFind nearby drop-off centers and sign up for recycling eventsAvoid putting the wrong materials in the bin Why it matters: When we sort waste correctly, we all win — reducing landfill use, keeping streets clean, and lowering program costs. But rules can vary between towns, and even neighbors might have different collection schedules. The app will available for download on both iOS and Android. It’s free, easy to use, and designed to help you do your part for the community. Also, view it on the web here.https://www.madisoncountyil.gov/departments/planning_and_development/sustainability.php Stay tuned for launch announcements and get ready to join Madison County in taking a smarter approach to waste. Recycle Coach Is Coming to Madison CountyRecycle Coach Is Coming to Madison CountyM15

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hen disaster strikes; your pets rely on you to keep them safe. June is National Pet Preparedness Month: Have a Plan for Your Furry Family Members When disaster strikes, it’s not just people who are affected—our pets are vulnerable too.That’s why June is recognized as National Pet Preparedness Month, a time to remind families toinclude their pets in emergency planning. From severe storms and flooding to house fires and unexpected evacuations, emergencies canhappen without warning. Being prepared means having a plan that ensures every member of yourhousehold, including pets, is safe. “If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them,” Madison County Emergency ManagementAgency Director Fred Patterson said . “Too often, pets are left behind during evacuations or don’thave the supplies needed to stay healthy and safe during a disaster. A little planning now canmake all the difference later.” Tips to Prepare Your Pet for Emergencies:Create a Pet Emergency Kit: Include food, water, medications, leashes, waste bags, bedding,vaccination records, and a photo of your pet in case you become separated.Microchip and Tag: Ensure your pets have ID tags with current information, and considermicrochipping them as an added layer of protection.Identify Pet-Friendly Shelters: Not all emergency shelters accept pets, so know in advancewhere you can go. Have a list of nearby pet-friendly hotels or friends and family who couldtake you in.Practice Your Plan: Run through your emergency plan with your pet so you both know whatto expect. This could include crate training or practicing loading into the car quickly. Most shelters or other emergency centers cannot accept pets because of health and safetyconcerns, so it is crucial that you plan ahead for your pets’ care. Do not leave your pets behind.If you are not home, you should have a plan in place for a neighbor, relative or a trusted friend tocare for your pets with your preparedness kits until you can reunite at a safe location. Madison County EMA encourages all residents to review their household emergency plans andmake sure they’re pet-inclusive. During emergencies, chaos and confusion are common—butpreparation helps ensure everyone gets out safely, paws included. For more information on creating a pet emergency plan, visit Madison County EMA website orscan the QR Code to find out more.DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS THIS DISASTER SEASONPAWS AND PREPARE:PAWS AND PREPARE:W

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Officials Warn Public About ScammersPosing as DMV and Utility Workers adison County leaders urge residents to stay vigilant as scammers use new tactics to steal money and property. Circuit Clerk Patrick McRae and Sheriff Jeff Connor are warning residents to be on high alertfollowing reports of two active scams targeting local citizens — one involving fraudulent trafficfine notices and the other a distraction-based burglary scheme.Phony DMV Messages Demand Payment According to McRae, scammers are sending deceptive emails and text messages titled “FinalNotice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on May 29,” falsely claiming recipients owe traffic fines andmust pay immediately to avoid penalties. The messages even cite a fake law, Illinois StateAdministrative Code 15C-16.003, to appear more legitimate. “This is a scam,” McRae said. “The State of Illinois does not issue traffic ticket enforcementnotices via email or text. We’ve had dozens of concerned residents call our office after receivingthese fake notices.” Connor emphasized that all legitimate traffic fines are handled through local law enforcementand the court system—not through anonymous digital messages demanding urgent payment. “These scams prey on fear,” Connor said. “If you receive a suspicious message, don’t respond,don’t click any links, and absolutely don’t send money.” Common red flags include:Threatening language and tight deadlinesUnfamiliar or made-up legal codesRequests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrencyImpersonators Target Homes in Distraction Burglary Meanwhile, the Sheriff’s Office is also investigating recent residential burglaries involvingsuspects impersonating Ameren utility workers. In these incidents, a woman approaches thehomeowner claiming to need access to the backyard to inspect tree limbs. While the homeowner isdistracted, a male accomplice enters the home and steals jewelry and other valuables. “These criminals are using uniforms and scripted stories to gain trust and access,” Connor said.“Don’t let anyone onto your property unless you can verify who they are. Ameren employees willalways wear proper identification and drive clearly marked vehicles.” Residents are urged to call law enforcement immediately if they suspect a scam or encountersuspicious individuals. How to Protect Yourself:Do not click links or download attachments in unsolicited messagesNever provide personal or payment information to unknown sourcesConfirm any notices directly with the Circuit Clerk’s OfficeReport suspicious visitors to law enforcementAsk for official ID and look for marked vehicles before allowing utility workers on yourproperty Contact Information for Reporting Madison County Sheriff’s Office: 618-692-6087 Dispatch (for immediate assistance): 618-692-4433 Anonymous Tip Line: 618-296-3000 Illinois Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Hotline: 1-800-386-5438 “We want the public to stay informed and protected,” McRae said. “Scammers are getting morecreative, but knowledge is the best defense.”M173

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eputies from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office had the honor of traveling to Washington D.C. to participate in National Police Week—a solemnoccasion dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of lawenforcement officers across the country. This year, two fallen heroes from Madison County wereformally recognized and forever memorialized. The names ofDeputy Lindley Larrison Jr. (End of Watch: Jan. 22, 1925) andConstable Isom Thos Gillham (End of Watch: Dec. 11, 1852)have now been engraved on the National Law EnforcementOfficers Memorial. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is deeply grateful tomustachemarch4pd for generously funding the trip for one ofits Deputies, making it possible to pay tribute in person. The department also wishes to offer a special thanks to theTyler Timmins Foundation and the many local organizations andcommunity members who supported the Madison CountySheriff’s Office throughout the week—with kind words anddelicious snacks that helped sustain those who attended thisemotional and meaningful event. The names of the fallen will never be forgotten and theirlegacy of service lives on.Madison County Deputies Honored DuringNational Police Week in Washington D.C. D

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Madison County BoardMeetingsCheck out the Citizens Guide on thecounty's website to find out more onthe operations of Madison CountyGovernment and its departments.The public is invited to attend County Boardmeetings, which are held in the Board Room atthe Madison County Administration Building, 157N. Main St., Edwardsville, Ill.Visit www.madisoncountyil.govfor more information.Check out the calendar to viewupcoming County Board andCommittee meetings.The Madison County Board Chairmanappoints individuals to more than 70boards and commissions with theadvice and consent of the CountyBoard. Click on the booklet to find outmore.Madison County Board — (618) 296-4341 — coboard@madisoncountyil.gov

Talk Around Town June 2025

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