Mt. Vernon Register-News

Beal and his wife received their tickets compliments of U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12). Ruth Beal has worked as a volunteer for the Congressman's office in the past, most recently during Bost's re-election in November.

Beal and Bost have known each other for several years, prior to the Congressman's first election to the 12th Congressional District.

"I've known Mike for years, first when he first started volunteering with the Murphysboro Fire Department," said Beal, who is the chief of Jefferson Fire Protection District. Beal moved up in the ranks, serving as a volunteer, captain and lieutenant before being appointed to the top position.