Talk Around Town September 2024 : simplebooklet.com

CLOSEDCLOSED adison County Treasurer Office is reminding the public that the second property tax installment due on Tuesday, Sept. 3. Taxpayers can also pay by mail, in person at the Treasurer’s Office, or at oneof the more than 100 collector banks and credit unions.Summary of payment options:Visit madcotreasurer.org to pay by eCheck or credit card.Mail payments to Madison County Treasurer, P.O. Box 849 (with coupon)or P.O. Box 729 (without coupon) Edwardsville, IL 62025In person, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Madison CountyAdministration Building, Treasurer’s Office, Suite 125, EdwardsvilleMore than 100 collector banks or credit unions. Tax coupons required.Online bill pay through your bank or credit union.For questions or more information visit www.madcotreasurer.org or contactthe Treasurer’s Office at (618) 692-6260.2ndInstallment of Property Taxes DueMCongratsCongratsCongratsMadison County residents who'vetaken part in the U.S. OlympicsVolleyball— Michelle Bartsch-Hackley, 2008Collinsville High School graduate, who was part ofthe U.S. Volleyball teams first gold medal victory inhistory on Aug. 8, 2021Swimming —Tom Jager, Collinsville High School,1982 graduateSwimming — William “Billy” Stapleton,Edwardsville High School, 1983 graduateSouthern Illinois University Edwardsville athletes Soccer players — Greg Makowski and Don Ebert. Track and Field — George Wood competed in theShot Put event in the 1968,1972 and and 1976games. SIUE Wrestling Coach Larry Kristoff and Bethaltoresident finished 5th in wrestling in the 1968Olympic games. The Madison County Regional Office of Education provided theinformation, if you know of other residents who took part in theOlympics please contact us at coboard@co.madison.il.usJayden Ulrich, a 2021 East Alton-Wood River HighSchool graduate, represented her hometown at theU.S. Olympics in Paris.The Olympian received a hero's welcome on Aug. 10 with a parade and gathering at the Wood River Recreation Center. Ulrich qualified for the U.S. team in the women's discus in second place and had a best throw of 61.08 meters in the prelims at the Olympics. She was 12th in Group B at the Olympics. Again, congratulations on your achievement! . Madison CountyAdministrationBuilding andCourthouse

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Madison County Sheriff’s Office awardedIllinois Department of Transportation t r a f f i c e n f o r c e m e n t g r a n t he Madison County Sheriff’s Office today announced it has been awarded a Federal Fiscal Year 2024 Sustained Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant to conduct additional traffic safety enforcement efforts. “We’re pleased to receive this grant to step up our road safety efforts with the goal of saving lives,”Captain T.J. Hernandez said. “Our mission is to make travel safer through directed, proactive patrols andto stop, cite and arrest those who choose to violate traffic laws.”The STEP program focuses on high-visibility enforcement and strategies aimed at saving lives andpreventing injuries by reducing traffic crashes. During the STEP grant year, which runs through Sept. 30,2024, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office will conduct additional enforcement efforts to supplementmandatory and optional campaign enforcement dates scheduled during some of the deadliest times ofthe year. The additional efforts will focus on the leading contributory causes of crashes: speeding, impaireddriving, electronic device use, failure to yield and disobeying traffic control signals, as well as occupantrestraint violations.The STEP grant is funded by federal highway safety funds administered by the Illinois Department ofTransportation.TSheriff’s Office display showcases historySheriff’s Office display showcases history he Regional Office of Education and Sheriff’s Office worked together recently to showcase some Madison County history.Visitors at the Madison County AdministrationBuilding were able to “go back in tine” and seephotographs and other memorabilia on display in thelobby.Sheriff Jeff Connor and Regional Superintendent ofSchools Robert Werden discussed one of the itemsin the display case, a vintage 1970s uniform,donated by Sgt. Jim Neumann (DSN 54) who workedfor the department from 1970 to 1998, which standsout due to its unique red color.“Everyone always sees sheriff deputies in theT traditional brown and khaki uniforms,” Connor said.“Sheriff George Musso implanted this uniform aftera trip to Canada.”He said Musso was inspired by the CanadianMounted Patrol uniform (1970s) and wantedMadison County to stand out and look sharp like the“Mounties.”Connor said the Sheriff’s Office is planning to put adisplay case in its lobby to display items.Werden said each month the display case changesand items showcased include everything from what’scurrently relevant to Madison County or somethinghistorical.“It’s all educational,” he said.

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NewNewAssociateAssociateJudge takesJudge takesthe benchthe bench adison County’s newest associate judge, John P. Hackett, is sworn into office in August. A courtroom filled with relatives, friends and the local legal community watched a family tradition continue Aug. 2when he took his oath of office. Retired Circuit Judge James Hackett administered the oath for his son, while hisgodfather, Attorney Russ Meyer, held the bible. Hackett filled the vacancy on the bench created by retiring Associate Judge Ron Slemmer. Hackett will take over his father’s first chamber and his courtroom. He is assigned the family and juveniledelinquency dockets.Prior to the robing, Circuit Judge Christopher Threlkeld opened the ceremony with an introduction and a briefbiography. He said he first met Hackett when he was a senior in high school and then noted the two also are alumniof The Citadel in South Carolina.M

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“John is extremely dedicated and hardworking,” Threlkeld said. “He will makecertain to prioritize the court’s business, will ensure litigants will receivethoughtful and timely judgments, all great qualities for an associate circuit judge.I am confident he’ll be a tremendous asset to the bench as a reliable andrespected colleague of this judiciary.” Hackett thanked Threlkeld for his kind words, those who attended the ceremonyand the circuit court for the opportunity. He also thanked his family, especiallyhis wife, Kahli, and his 6-year-old son.“Thomas my son, thank you for making me proud every day,” he said. “It’s mywish for you, not that you to stand where I am, or where your grandfather stood,but that you do stand for something. Whatever or wherever you’ll continue tomake me proud.”Hackett continued to recognize many whom he said played a significant role inhis life, family, classmates, colleagues, however he didn’t mention names but saidhe omitted them as it would take too long for his speech. He did mention severalattorneys he called mentors.“I’ve had the chance to learn from and be surrounded by some wonderful peoplethat in one way or another contributed to me being able to serve the circuit(court) in this way,” he said. “You have to understand there is a bit of this place inmy blood.”He said he and his brother were very fortunate to have been able to spend time inhis father’s office with such special people while he was growing up. He said hewas shown not only tough love by some, but one in particular showed him and hisbrother unconditional love — his mother.“That office is where our mother taught us about compassion,” she said. “It iswhere she made sure we saw and learned how to treat our neighbors withkindness and respect. She showed us how to put the interest of others above ourown and be a servant of the people.”Hackett said he never practiced law with his father, but the toughest lawyer Iever worked for was him.“Nearly all of you on this court know his character,” he said. “He is calm in chaos.He is unwavering in commitment. He is an absolutist for the right answer nomatter the consequences. “I’m not him, but I’m sure to say this and proud of it — I strive to be.He above all has been my guiding example and as such to the citizensof this circuit, to my new colleagues on the bench I give my word andI will use his ‘I will work first and play later. I will make independentdecisions and I will no matter the consequences just try and get itright.”Prior to his oath of office, Hackett practiced law in Edwardsville atthe law firm of Lewis, Brisbois, Bisgaard and Smith. He served as anassistant state’s attorney in the Civil Division of the Madison CountyState’s Attorney’s Office and as city Attorney Wood River, Highland,Litchfield and Lebanon.Hackett received his undergraduate degree from The Citadel: TheMilitary College of South Carolina and his juris doctor from St. LouisUniversity School of Law, where he has since returned to teach as anadjunct professor. He is a member of the Illinois and Missouri bar,Madison County Bar Association, and the Catholic Bar Association.An Edwardsville native, he also serves on the Board of Directors forthe Edwardsville Glen Carbon Little League.

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a plaque to Novacich for his service. Novacich, who also serves as GraniteCity Police Chief, was appointed commander of the Task Force in 2022. “Under the leadership of Nick Novacich, this Task Force has continued tofulfill its mission of addressing public-safety problems by conductingprecision operations — utilizing a team of elite officers and the latesttechnological advances in law enforcement,” Connor said. “The Cross-River Crime Task Force has achieved impressive results under hiscommand.”The Cross-River Crime Task Force’s accomplishments under Novacich’stenure include:11 deployments involving more than 200 law enforcement officialsfrom local, state, and federal agencies.Deployments covered key areas including Bethalto, Alton, Wood River,East Alton, Pontoon Beach, Granite City, Collinsville, State Park,Madison, and Venice.More than 1,000 traffic stops conducted as part of efforts to upholdthe law and protect residents.Approximately 60 illegally-possessed firearms recovered.Seizure of substantial quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, andheroin.Received prestigious Unit Award from the Southwestern Illinois LawEnforcement Commission and Southern Illinois Police ChiefsAssociation in recognition of the Task Force's efforts in reducingcrime and promoting public safety.Novacich credited the Task Force’s team members.“Over the past two years, we have been unwavering in our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” Novacich said.“The team’s mission is far from over, but together, with the continuedsupport of our legal partners and the unwavering dedication of ourofficers, we will continue to protect and serve our communities withhonor and resolve. Thank you to all who participated and worked diligentlyto preserve the safety of our community.”Pulido said his goal for the Task Force is to continue to develop andemploy cutting-edge tools to prevent crime.“We will continue to be visible in our County, adapting to investigatingnew crime trends, while using innovative tools to combat criminalbehavior,” Pulido said. “We are committed to a long-term investment toprotect people in Madison County.”Before being named Chief Deputy at the Sheriff’s Office in 2022, Pulidoserved more than 22 years at Alton Police Department, including as Chiefof Police. He also served as a Deputy Commander for the Major CaseSquad of Greater St. Louis.“I’m confident that Marcos Pulido’s leadership experience will allow theCross-River Crime Task Force to continue to improve community safety inour County,” Connor said.The Cross-River Crime Task Force, comprised of officers from federal,state, county and local agencies, uses targeted deployments and leading-edge technology such as Automated License Plate Readers to reduce theflow of crime into Madison County. It is governed by the Sheriff, State’sAttorney and a committee of leaders from local law enforcementagencies.

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he renovation of Madison County’s annex building at 130 Hillsboro Ave. is complete and the Probation and Court Services Department is preparing its move intothe $3.1 million updated facility.“Our plan is to turn over the building to the ProbationDepartment on Sept. 16,” Facilities Department DirectorMichael Bold said.In August, the contractor turned over the property to thecounty. Prior to moving furniture, the facilitiesdepartment will do some work both inside and outsidethe annex building, including running lines for telephones,computers and copiers, as well as removing oldlandscaping and repaving the parking lot next year.The county started working on the $3.1 million buildingupgrade in October 2022. Prior to the renovation,probation had offices located on the second floor of thebuilding, with Community Development offices locatedon the first. During construction, probation has worked from officesat 200 Clay Street, the basement of the AdministrationBuilding and the Juvenile Detention Center.“We are really looking forward to moving into thebuilding,” Director of Probation and Court ServicesKevin McKee said. McKee said he is he especially pleased because most of MADISON COUNTYPROBATION PREPARING TOMOVE INTO NEWLYRENOVATED BUILDING NEXTMONTHT

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the staff would be located in one place, with an increase in itssecurity.“We will still have a presence at the Criminal Justice Centerand staff at the Juvenile Detention Home, but the majority ofthe Probation staff will be in the annex building,” McKee said. Work was originally to be completed in June, however therewere delays in receiving electrical components for thebuilding. Bold said that the electrical distribution panel for the buildingdid not get delivered in May when it was expected, thereforecausing a two-month delay.The renovated building includes 54 office/conference rooms.The building itself includes a new interior stairwell andelevator to accommodate the second floor, which is staff only.“The only public area of the building will be the lobby, whichpeople will enter from the front of on Hillsboro Street,” McKeesaid.Bold said the building is completely up to all accessible codesand is ADA compliant.Recently McKee and Probation’s Chief Deputy James “Brad”Paschal visited the facility to scope out their new offices. Thedepartment is moving the majority of its furniture from itscurrent two locations, as well as ordering some new to fill thespace, especially the conference rooms, some of which will beused for training purposes.“It all looks really good compared to where we are now,”Paschal said.McKee and Pashal’s offices are located on the ground floor,along with most of the probation administration offices. Eachofficer will also have their own individual working space alongwith access to interviewing rooms where they will conduct inperson contacts within the annex. The department has 88 employees, which includescertified probation and detention officers, administrationand other positions. The department oversees more than4,000 probationers, who will be notified of the move.“Everyone is ready to move in,” McKee said.Madison County Chair Pro-tem Mick Madison said he isappreciative of all the work put in by the FacilitiesDepartment — the preparation prior to the renovation,the move of two departments, including renovations toprobations’ old office space in the AdministrationBuilding for Community Development, and overseeing theproject at the annex property.“It was basically a big jigsaw puzzle with pieces moving allaround,” Madison said. “But the county got the job doneand now it has a great new facility that is secure.”

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FIRST CLASSFIRST CLASS West Star Aviation Academygraduates' inaugural classand cuts ribbon on newhanger adison County officials attended West Star Aviation’s ribbing cutting for the completion of itsnew hanger and the graduation of theinaugural class of the company’s AviationAcademy.“We are here to celebrate,” West Star’sChief Executive Officer Stephen Maidensaid. “We are here to celebrate the grandopening of Hanger 67 and secondly, we willcelebrate the graduating class.”Maiden said the opening of the hangermarks a significant investment in West StarAviation’s commitment to growth andexcellence. He said the new hangar,officially named Hangar 67, adds 75,700square feet of space, including 40,000square feet of dedicated hangar space and35,700 square feet of support space for thecompany’s advanced modificationcapabilities. In addition to providing a significantincrease in available hangar space, theexpansion enhances West Star’s capacity forinterior, avionics, and sheet metal services,while enabling the implementation ofcutting-edge production technologies,including a new state-of-the-art designcenter.“The completion of Hangar 67 representsanother significant moment in West StarAviation’s vision for the future,” Maidensaid . “This new facility M

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IN AVIATIONIN AVIATIONnot only enhances our service capabilitiesbut also exemplifies our ongoingcommitment to growth and innovation toensure we are prepared to meet the needs ofour valued customers.”The $20 million investment in the EastAlton facility includes state-of-the-artequipment and tooling, further enhancingWest Star Aviation’s capabilities. Theexpansion is expected to create 60-80 newjobs, contributing to the economic development of the local community.The East Alton facility currently hasnearly 600 employees. Allen McReynolds, West Star’s presidentand chief operating officer, said the MRO(Maintenance, Repair and Operations)industry is growing faster than anyone can keep up. He said the reason for thebuild is the company had run out of space.

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McReynolds said the benefits of the newfacility is that it makes things more efficientwith workflow, creates new jobs and enablesWest Star Academy to grow into thecompany’s future workforce. “This expansion is a testament to theincredible growth we’ve experienced at ourEast Alton facility,” General Manager of theEast Alton facility Brian Bauwens said. “Theadded capacity and advanced resources willhave a tremendous impact on our operationsand our ability to serve our customers moreefficiently.” West Star Aviation worked closely withContegra Construction and the St. LouisRegional Airport throughout the project. Madison County Treasurer Chris Slusser,who is set to be the next County BoardChairman following the uncontestedNovember election, said the county isgrateful that West Star chose to expand theirfootprint in providing industry-leadingservices in Madison County. “We are committed to seeing this countygrow,” Slusser said. “We are always lookingto recruit new businesses,” Slusser said. “ Itis equally important for the county toimprove and retain existing businesses. Other officials who attended were MadisonCounty Circuit Clerk Tom McRae, Chief , Deputy Treasurer and Circuit Clerk-electPatrick McRae, State Senator Erica HarrissState representatives Amy Elik and KatieStuart, along with Bethalto Mayor GaryBost, East Alton Mayor Darren Carlton andWood River Mayor Tom Stalcup. MadisonCounty Employment and Training DirectorTony Fuhrmann and other county staff alsoattended. In conjunction with West Star’s hangarexpansion, the St. Louis Regional Airportalso completed a 56,000 square foot apronexpansion. With support from the IllinoisDepartment of Transportation – Division ofAeronautics, this apron expansion furtherenhances the airport’s capabilities andaligns with West Star’s growth, ensuringcontinued excellence in service andoperations. Established in 1947 as a small aviationcompany, West Star Aviation has evolvedover the past 77 years into the largest MROin the country, with more than 3,000employees and locations nationwide. With the completion of the new hangar,West Star’s network encompasses 1.5million square feet of hangar space acrossthe US. Maiden said he was thrilled to also shareopening spotlight with West Star AviationAcademy. “Today we are going to appreciate the hardwork and dedication on the inaugural classof West Star Academy,” he said. He there were 23 individuals who spentthe last eight months studying andlearning about aviation maintenance. “Recognize the remarkableaccomplishment for all the work and theeffort that you’ve put in that put you inthis spot,” he said. Maiden said that approximately 1,000applicants applied for the academy’s 25spots. “That means the 2.5% of the people whoapplied had the great opportunity to sit inthat seat,” he said. “What a remarkableaccomplishment. He said that was a testament to their focus,dedication and want to be in the aviationindustry. “Remember there is only one first class,”Maiden said. The grand opening of the hangar tookplace on the same day that St. LouisRegional Freightway announced thecreation of a St. Louis Regional Aerospaceand Aviation Task Force, includingrepresentatives from five major airports inIllinois and Missouri, major aerospacemanufacturers, and educational andworkforce officials.The task force is part of an increasedemphasis on the region’s aerospaceindustry, which includes five majorairports and several major manufacturers.Stephen Maiden, CEO of West Star Aviation,speaks during a grand opening ceremony Madison CountyTreasurer andChairman-elect (secondfrom left) along withChief Deputy Treasurerand Circuit Clerk-electPatrick McRae, StateSenator Erica Harriss,Circuit Clerk TomMcRae, Staterepresentative Amy Elikspeak to SouthwesternIllinois CommunityCollege’s Director of theGranite City CampusSuzanne McClure(fourth from left) aboutthe school’s aviationprograms.

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Madison CountyMadison Countytaking photos oftaking photos ofhomes,homes,commercialcommercialproperties toproperties toupdateupdateassessmentassessmentinformationinformation adison County’s Chief Assessment Office (CCAO) will be working in Foster Township for the next several months to update its file for online property images. Staff from the CCAO will be taking street-view photographs ofresidential and commercial properties for reassessment for the FosterTownship Quadrennial. “The county’s personnel will have badges and yellow vests on, as wellas driving marked county cars,” Chief County Assessor Denise Shoressaid. She said staff would also leave door hangers notifying the propertyowners about what they are doing. The information is being gathered so that it can be put into thecounty’s tax assessment system— DEVNET. The photo project is expected to continue through November. Shores said that once the project is completed, taxpayers would beable to view their full assessment information online, and if they needhelp, they can contact the CCAO at (618) 692-6270. M

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GOODNEWS Recognizing the People of Madison CountyRecognizing the People of Madison County Judge earns Judicial Executive LeadershipCertificate from Harvard University Law School Certified LeaderCertified LeaderCertified Leader udge Veronica Armouti became the first Illinois Judge to earn a certificate in Judicial Executive Leadership from Harvard University Law School’s Executive Education Program. Armouti attended Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Mass. from July 21 to 24. The National Judicial College in collaboration with the Harvard Law School Executive Education Programequips judicial leaders with the foresight, ethical grounding and innovative leadership necessary tonavigate today’s rapidly changing world reshaped by technological advancements, societal shifts andpolitical undercurrents. The program emphasizes design thinking, change management and crisisresolution to prepare judges to effectively lead judiciaries that are adaptive, resilient and responsive to the demands of justice in a dynamicenvironment. Armouti learned advanced leadership and management principles, effective communication and personaldevelopment, all viewed through the unique challenges and opportunities of the judiciary. The programwas a transformative experience designed to prepare Armouti to meet the challenges of her role withconfidence, strategic insight and a deep commitment to justice. In 2019, Armouti was appointed as an associate judge. She is currently assigned to the Family Divisionand Alton Traffic, DUI, Domestic Violence and Misdemeanor dockets for the Third Judicial Circuit. TheSupreme Court of Illinois Committee on Judicial Education selected Armouti to serve as faculty teachingat the Illinois Education Conference and New Judge Orientation, where attendance is required for allIllinois judges. Armouti currently serves on the Illinois Judges Association Board of Directors and its EducationalProgramming and Retention Committees. She is a member of the Illinois, Missouri, Madison County, andMound City Bar Associations. Additionally, she is a member of the United Way Illinois Region North Boardof Directors. J

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GOODNEWS Recognizing the People of Madison CountyRecognizing the People of Madison County ustice Amy Sholar and Judges Justin Zimmerman and Emily Nielsen presented the Illinois Judges Association (IJA) program "Worries of the World Wide Web" atMarquette Catholic High School in August.The IJA program combines television newscasts, posted socialmedia videos and the judges' courtroom experiences to make itinteractive and engaging for the students. The programexplains how using social media to bully a classmate mayquickly turn into criminal behavior. The judges, using real lifeexamples, explained how seemingly private texts, pictures, andvideos are actually not private and could be shared withhundreds of their classmates and posted on the internet.Students learned how a person who possesses and/or sharesthe picture could be charged criminally. The program discussesthe legal and non-legal consequences of being charged with acrime. The presentation ended with a question-and-answer sessionand a video titled “Cyber Bullying Victims Gone Too Soon”which is a compilation of pictures and a short summary ofteenagers who have taken their own lives as a result of beingvictimized by social media. The goal is to increase awareness ofthe dangers of social media and to attempt to prevent themfrom making a mistake that could impact their lives and othersin the future.Worries of the World WIde Web: Judges tell studentsWorries of the World WIde Web: Judges tell studentsabout Real-Life Consequences for misuse ofabout Real-Life Consequences for misuse oftechnologytechnologyBullying BehaviorBullying BehaviorBullying BehaviorJ

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Year Number of Suicides2014 402015 332016 432017 522018 412019 502020 312021 432022 442023 432024 38 (January through JulyMadison County Suicide DeathsMadison County Suicide Deaths *Data provided by the Madison County Coroner’s OfficeSeptember is National SuicideSeptember is National SuicidePrevention Awareness MonthPrevention Awareness Month The semicolon tattoo was popularized by Amy Bleuel. Having struggled with depression, addiction, and difficult personal circumstances, particularly after being raped and her father died by suicide, she wanted something to commemorate her survival. In 2013, she founded the faith-based nonprofit Project Semicolon, which chose asemicolon as a symbol because it’s “used when an author could’ve chosen to endtheir sentence, but chose not to. The author is you and the sentence is your life.”What does a semicolon tattoo mean?A semicolon tattoo is a tattoo of thesemicolon punctuation mark (;), which isused as a message of affirmation andsolidarity with those who have dealt withsuicide, depression, addiction, and othermental health issues. uicide is a public health crisis, and it ranks as the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Suicide does not care about age, gender or sex. “It’s heartbreaking that an individual feels like there is no hope otherthan to take their own life,” Deborah Humphrey, director of theMadison County Mental Health Board, said. September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time todraw attention to the issue surrounding suicide and to advocate forthe prevention of it.“Suicide is a human issue, and we need to do what we can by havingdifficult conversations surrounding it,” Humphrey said.For all those who do take their own life, there are millions more whohave serious thoughts of suicide and go as far to make a plan orattempt it. So, how do you recognize the signs of suicide risk? “There’s no single cause for suicide,” Humphrey said. “But educatingpeople of some of the signs can assist in getting those in distress thehelp they need.”Suicide most often occurs when stressors and health issues converge tocreate an experience of hopelessness and despair.Suicide is a major public health concern and a leading cause of death inthe U.S. and a concern in Madison County.During the past 10 years (2014 to July 2023) Madison County Coroner'sOffice recorded 440 suicide deaths. The suicided rates range from 31 to52 suicides annually for the past decade.The current data suggests that 2024 will be on trend with years past.Humphrey said the No. 1 reason people avoid asking someone thequestion about suicide, is because if they say "yes" they don't know whatto do. "There is help out there," she said. Humphrey said the Mental Health Board will aim to raise awarenessduring Suicide Prevention Awareness Month by sharing resources to helpothers recognize the warning signs for suicide and know how to get help. “The goals will be to raise awareness, help individuals educatethemselves, and encourage everyone to look out for others,” she said.“One suicide death is one too many.”S

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Signs of SuicideSigns of Suicide uicide has no single cause and no one approach can end it — but prevention is possible.Veterans are especially at risk of suicide. Why? Because many areafraid to come forward out of fear and the stigma attached to it. Veterans can find the support they need before a crisis happens. It’s been five years since the President of the United States signedExecutive Order 13861, otherwise known as President's Roadmap toEmpower and End National Tragedy of Suicide (PREVENTS). The ordercreated an interagency task force to lead the development andimplementation of a national, comprehensive roadmap to change howthe nation treats mental health and understand suicide preventionamong veterans.PREVENTS led to the development of the Madison County VeteransAssistance Commission’s Veterans in Crisis Response Program. TheVAC’s program trains first responders on how to handle veterans indistress and crisis in real-time.According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs there are around20.7 million veterans. The VA states that an average of 20 veteransdie by suicide each day.The VA report on “National Strategy for Preventing Suicide” says thatabout six out of 20 are recent users of Veterans Health Administrationservices. The VA’s strategy is to reduce military and Veteran suicidefocus on clinical interventions and community-based outreachprevention strategies. That means everyone — friends, relatives, caregivers, communitymembers, and health care providers ― has a role to play in keepingVeterans safe and healthy. Every Veteran is different, and many may not show any signs of intentto harm themselves. But some actions and behaviors can be signs thatthey need help. Visit the VA to find out more.PreventPrevent Veteran SuicideVeteran SuicideWarning Signs for SuicidePainful feelings of depression, guilt, or shameFeelings of hopelessness, despair, or inability to escape anunbearable problemIntense feelings of anxiety or feeling overwhelmedPreoccupation with death, feelings of worthlessness, orbeing a burden to othersPreparing for death, such as preparing a will or gettingother affairs in order, giving away possessions, acquiringlethal means to harm oneself (e.g., buying a firearm,stockpiling pills or medications, internet searches for waysto die)A significant change in behavior, including withdrawal fromfriends/family, inability to function, decreased self-care. Additional Risk FactorsIncreased drinking or substance useA history of previous suicidal behavior or attempts. A history of diagnosed depression, PTSD, alcohol-usedisorder, or other mental health condition.Social factors: relationship loss, social isolation, beingbulliedNavigating a Mental Health Crisis Talk openly and honestly. Don’t be afraid to ask questionslike: “Do you have a plan for how you would kill yourself?” Remove means such as guns, knives or stockpiled pills Calmly ask simple and direct questions, like “Can I help youcall your psychiatrist?” If there are multiple people around, have one person speak ata timeExpress support and concern Don’t argue, threaten or raise your voice Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong If you’re nervous, try not to fidget or pace Be patient Listen,Listen,Learn,Learn,HealHealS

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ental health and substance use disorders affect all communities nationwide. Withcommitment and support, those impacted canembark on a journey of improved health andoverall wellness. Madison County officials are asking the public tocelebrate individuals who have or are currentlyseeking treatment and recovery services forsubstance use and mental disorders.The focus of National Recovery Month is to honorpeople who are making the journey of recoverypossible and embracing the 2021 theme,“Recovery is For Everyone: Every Person, EveryFamily, Every Community.” Recovery Monthspreads the message that people can and dorecover every day.Recovery Month promotes the societal benefitsof treatment for substance use and mentaldisorders, celebrates people in recovery,acknowledges the contributions of treatmentproviders, and promotes the message thatrecovery is possible.Recovery Month celebrates the gains made bythose in recovery, just as we celebrate healthimprovements made by those who are managingother health conditions such as hypertension,diabetes, asthma and heart disease. Thisobservance reinforces the positive message thatbehavioral health is essential to overall health,prevention works, treatment is effective, andpeople can and do recover.There are millions of Americans whose lives havebeen transformed through recovery. Since thesesuccesses often go unnoticed by the broaderpopulation, Recovery Month provides a vehiclefor everyone to celebrate theseaccomplishments. Each September, tens ofthousands of prevention, treatment and recoveryprograms and facilities around the countrycelebrate Recovery Month. Come out the other sideand celebrate recoveryM

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Vending machines arethe latest tool inMadison County infighting opioid crisis ending machines are typically stocked with snacks, but now they are being repurposed todistribute life-saving supplies to help fight theopioid crisis.A growing number of cities and local governmentsacross the country are making “harm reduction”items available to the public for free and one ofthem is the over-the-counter naloxone, known bythe brand name Narcan. Narcan is an inhaledmedication used to reverse an opioid overdose.The public can access the vending machines atseveral Madison County communities. ChestnutHealth Systems installed the vending machines attwo of its locations — 50 Northgate Industrial Dr.in Granite City and 2146 Vadalabene Dr. inMaryville.The idea for the vending machines is to helppeople access doses quickly and reducesomeone’s risk of dying from an opioid overdosesince, ideally, the medication should be givenimmediately. At least 33 states and the District ofColumbia have naloxone vending machines.More than 100,000 people in the US died from adrug overdose in the 12-month period that endedin March, according to provisional data from theUS Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’sNational Center for Health Statistics.The Madison County Coroner’s Office reported 38overdose deaths in Madison County through theend of June. Madison County Health Departmentreports there has been approximately 318“suspected nonfatal overdose-related EmergencyDepartment visits” through the end of June.Overall, the number of overdose deathsassociated with any drug continues to increaseeach month in the United States, although thepace appears to be slowing. V

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hen disasters strike — be prepared!Every year, the United States observes National Preparedness Month in September to remind Americans tobe ready for any disaster — man-made or natural — that could affect them, their homes, communities, orbusinesses. This year’s theme is “The life you’ve built is worth protecting.” “People should prepare for any disaster,” Madison County Emergency Management Agency Director FredPatterson said. "Especially one that could have them leaving their home."Patterson said the month long event is to create awareness about the importance of preparing for disastersand emergencies that could happen at any time. “One of the first things people should do is build an emergency kit,” he said.An emergency kit should include:Non-perishable food and water that will last for several days, Manual can opener Flashlights Radios and extra batteries First aid kit Medications Sanitation and personal hygiene items Copies of personal documents (birth certificates, insurance policies, list of medications, proof ofaddress, passport, license) Emergency blankets Multi-purpose tool Cell-phone chargers Extra cashFamily and emergency contact informationWhistle (to signal for help if needed) Pet supplies (food, a selfie with them in case you are separated, medicine and grooming items, collarwith ID and leash)“People should also consider any special needs your family may have,” Patterson said. “Make sure your kidsknow important phone numbers and who to contact if they are separated from you.”Patterson said when youth prepare and practice for an emergency; it improves their ability to takeimmediate and informed action during a disaster.Visit the Madison County EMA online to learn more and remember preparing for disasters is about makingsure you are keeping a lasting legacy for you and your family.It’s never too early to prepare for a disasterIt’s never too early to prepare for a disasterIt’s never too early to prepare for a disasterS e p t e m b e r i s N a t i o n a l P r e p a r e d n e s s M o n t hS e p t e m b e r i s N a t i o n a l P r e p a r e d n e s s M o n t hS e p t e m b e r i s N a t i o n a l P r e p a r e d n e s s M o n t hW

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adison County Building and Zoning and CJD-E-Cycling, will host an electronics recycling collection for county residents this month. The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m on Saturday, Sept 14at CJD E-Cycling, 5257 State Route 157, Edwardsville. Residents who have made an appointment may drop off homeelectronics. The event is free to attend, but registration is required.Those not pre-registered will be turned away to avoid lengthy waittimes and overwhelming site capacity. Register athttps://recycleresponsibly.as.me/electronics. Accepted items include anything with a cord, home electronics andtelevisions, computers and monitors, small appliances, airconditioners, washers, dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, furnaces,lawn equipment. All items, including older-model CRT televisions, arefree of charge for residents to recycle during the drive. Items not accepted include business and contractor waste, paint,hazardous waste, batteries, oils, fire extinguishers, propane tanks,oxygen tanks, DVDs, VHSs, CDs, or cassette tapes, transformers orballasts, and devices containing mercury including smoke detectors. Madison County will continue to monitor the latest developmentssurrounding COVID-19 and may cancel or postpone events as deemednecessary. If this occurs, appointment holders will receive an emailnotification. These collections are part of Madison County Building & Zoning’sregular programming to provide residents with comprehensive waste-disposal and recycling services. MMadison County to hostMadison County to host e-waste collectione-waste collection for residentsfor residents

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Slow Down:School is back in session! While many of the kids are eager to beginschool, see their classmates, and get back to the routine schedule, schooldays always brings roadway congestion whether it is school buses pickingup passengers, kids on bikes, and/or stressed parents driving children toand from school. It's never more important for ALL drivers to slow downand pay attention than when kids are present – especially before andafter school Drive DefensivelyBe aware of what other drivers around you are doing, and expect theunexpected.Assume other motorists will do something crazy, and always beprepared to avoid it.Keep a 2-second cushion between you and the car in front of you(Make that 4 seconds if the weather is bad!)Take right-handed turns, if possible.Did you know that you are 50% less likely to get in a motor vehicleaccident when you turn right instead of left? When turning left, you havethe potential to get in a collision from all four directions (driver’s side,passenger’s side, front, and rear). When turning right, your only probablecollisions are from the rear and on the driver’s side (two directions).Focus on DrivingKeep 100% of your attention on driving at all times!Don’t use your phone or any other electronic device while driving. Itis against the law!It’s not holding the phone up to your ear that makes you distracted…it’sthe conversation itself! Thirty (30)+ studies found NO SAFETY BENEFIT tohands-free (e.g., Bluetooth), and indicate that driving while using ahands-free device (such as your car’s Bluetooth system or a Bluetoothearpiece) is the same as a 0.08% DUI!Multi-tasking for the brain is a myth! Your brain cannot completely focuson two tasks at the same time; it just handles tasks sequentially andswitches between the two tasks, meaning you’re distracting by simplytaking a phone call. Slow down! Speeding gives you less time to react and increases theseverity of a collision. Safe Driving AppsThere are several safe-driving apps that can be downloaded on yoursmartphone that will keep your distractions to a minimum while driving.Many new iPhone versions come with apps already installed on them andready for use.Back to School MeansBack to School Means Sharing the RoadSharing the Road

Talk Around Town September 2024

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