For Release: Friday, August 3, 2007
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

U.S. CONGRESSMAN JERRY COSTELLO PRESENTS GRANT CHECK TO THE SPARTA FIRE DEPARTMENT

Sparta - On Friday, August 31, 2007 U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) presented a check representing grant funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to Fire Chief Rob Soderlund at the Sparta Fire Department.

The mock check, in the amount of $475,000, represents an Assistance to Firefighters Grant. The Sparta Fire Department will use these funds to purchase a new fire truck.

The Assistance to Firefighters Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The program seeks to enhance the ability of local fire departments to respond to fire and fire-related hazards in their communities. Costello cosponsored the legislation that created the Assistance to Firefighters program.

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