Unshaven beards and apples symbols of sympathy for strikers

Even the most stalwart of strikers in Madison County must have welcomed the quiet support of unshaven bailiffs and a big bag of apples over the repetitive, blaring of car horns on Thursday.

While union workers, represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 799, were picketing for the second day, management was holding down the fort.

The most obvious signs of service disruption at the courthouse and administration building were longer-than-usual lines at a number of counters. But, customers were getting what they needed.

Outside, Edwardsville divorce attorney David Fahrenkamp wooed strikers with two brown sacks full of gleaming golden and red delicious and granny smith apples.

And, Madison County bailiffs pledged not to shave until the strike is over.

Talks are scheduled at a “neutral” location Friday at 1 p.m.