SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $12,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $5,000 to the Community Performance Ensemble to enhance its Community Youth Initiative.

The Ensemble is a nonprofit Arts and Service organization that provides a wide variety of cultural and education services to the children and families of East St. Louis.

This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Wyvetter H. Younge, D-East St. Louis.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $5,000 to the Belleville West Marching Maroons Band Parents Association to purchase a customized trailer to haul equipment and uniforms to performances.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. James F. Clayborne, Jr., D-Belleville.

• $2,500 to the Edwardsville Community Unit District 7 to purchase 53 various native Illinois trees for the high school's Outdoor Classroom project.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Jay C. Hoffman, D-Collinsville.