Chris Jones: Green Publishing, Inc.
The Madison Police Department (MPD) hosted a youth rally on Wednesday, July 12 and Thursday, July 13. Over 40 children attended each day of the rally, which was held at the Madison Recreation Association, located at 243 Arnold St., in Madison. The rally was free to the first 50 children who were registered. The rally was made possible by McDonald's, Stahl-Meyer, L&W Venison, Cooks and Cooper, Pilgrim's Pride, and Food Giant.
Presentations were made by the MPD, Madison County Sheriff's Office, Madison Fire Rescue (MFR), the University of Florida Extension Office, Merv Mattair, the Madison Health Department, former NFL player Jesse Solomon, and others. Lieutenant Andy Tellefsen and Firefighters Freddie Moore and Jorge Tojeiro gave the children, ages 8 to 13, a hands-on tour of one of MFR's fire engines. MPD K-9 Officer Anthony Land and his K-9 partner Bolt put on an impressive show of Bolt's speed, agility, and discipline for the children. Michelle Stout and Theresa Williams, from the University of Florida's Extension Office, spoke about the importance of summer nutrition, the Cherry Lake 4-H camp, and soil and water conservation. Thursday's lunch consisted of slow-cooked chicken quarters, macaroni and cheese, and baked beans.
“It was a great event. We are looking to build on it for next year. We really appreciated the sponsors and volunteers who helped out,” said MPD Capt. Tyrone Edwards.