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Madison Communications is proud to announce the outstanding performance of their technicians at the 2025 SCTE Gateway Chapter Cable-Tec Games, held on May 15^th in St. Louis. The SCTE Gateway Chapter is one of 67 Chapters across the globe whose purpose is to provide local networking, professional development and certification opportunities to current and prospective members across 70 locations worldwide.

Competing against leading companies such as Charter, Comcast, Ervin Cable Construction, and Mediacom, the SCTE Gateway Chapter, that includes the Madison Technicians, once again demonstrated technical excellence, composure under pressure, and superior craftsmanship. The SCTE Gateway Chapter was named 1^st Place Overall for the 14^th consecutive year!

The Cable-Tec Games feature seven Olympic-style events, each designed to test the practical skills of broadband professionals. Events are judged primarily on accuracy, with time serving as the deciding factor for those with perfect scores. Tasks are drawn from real-world technician duties, some performed daily and others less frequently depending on specific job roles. Contestants have a five-minute time limit per event, and each competition is conducted in front of a live audience—adding a unique pressure that no training can replicate.

This year’s Madison Communications teamincluded Bryan Huffstutler – Broadband Technician, Erick Goode – Broadband Technician, Greg Crabill – Broadband Technician, and Daron Verbais – Lead Technician.

The team captured an impressive 12 out of 24 medals awarded at the event. Daron Verbais took home a 2^nd and 3^rd place individual award, Greg Crabill took home two – 1^st place awards, one – 2^nd place award, and two – 3^rd place awards, and lastly Bryan Huffstutler took home three – 1^st place awards, one – 2^nd place award, and one – third place award! The winning categories consisted of games that evaluated fiber splicing, meter reading, drop connection, hardline cable splicing and many more.

As a result of his exceptional performance, Bryan Huffstutler, Broadband Technician, will be invited to represent both the Gateway Chapter and Madison Communications at the SCTE Tec Expo in Washington, D.C. later this year. Based on his scores, he may also qualify to compete in the prestigious International Games, as he has in years past.

Madison Communications is deeply proud of their talented technicians. Their consistent success is a testament not only to their technical expertise, but also to their character, dedication, and professionalism. Once again, they have proven themselves to be among the very best in the region.

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The Gillespie Methodist Church is excited to host a delightful spring buffet dinner on Saturday, May 3 at Jodanni’s Amore’.

Guests are invited to indulge in a flavorful menu featuring sliced roast pork with gravy, chicken spiedini, roasted potatoes, garden tortellini, green beans and carrots, garden salad, a fresh roll, and a choice of strawberry or chocolate cupcake. Refreshments will include ice tea and water, providing a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience.

Serving will begin at 4:30 p.m. and continue until 7:00 p.m., offering an excellent opportunity for community members to gather, enjoy good food, and celebrate the arrival of spring.

Tickets can be purchased by contacting Catherine Young at 217-825-8488 or Mary Griffel at 217-556-5456.

This event is sponsored by the Gillespie Methodist Church and promises an evening of great food and community spirit. Come join us for a wonderful spring evening!

The Gillespie Public Library is having a promotional giveaway during the month of December. The “December Spin Giveaway” will allow patrons to spin for prizes each time books are checked out during the month of December.

The prizes are to Gillespie businesses.

Although December is a hectic month with the holidays, take time to relax with a “good book” and visit the library.