For Release: Monday, October 17, 2005
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

U.S. CONGRESSMAN JERRY COSTELLO PRESENTS U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND COPS GRANT CHECKS TO VILLAGE OF BETHALTO

Bethalto, IL - On Tuesday, October 11, 2005, U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) presented a Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters grant check and a U.S. Department of Justice COPS grant check to Bethalto Mayor Steve Bryant and Police and Fire Department officials at the Bethalto Fire Station located at 213 North Prairie.      

Costello first presented Mayor Bryant and Fire Chief John Nolte with a mock grant check in the amount of $63,080. The Bethalto Fire Department will use these funds to purchase air packs, filling equipment and support gear.

Costello then presented Mayor Bryant and Police Chief Alan Winslow with a mock grant check in the amount of $47,876 representing funds awarded from the U.S. Department of Justice COPS "Secure our Schools" grant program. Bethalto will use these funds for security and surveillance systems in Bethalto schools.

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