Governor Ryan Signs Legislation Creating Ronald Reagan Day in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 1553 designating February 6 of each year as "Ronald Reagan Day."

"Ronald Reagan was born and educated in the State of Illinois and is one of the great Presidents of our time. He is a compassionate individual and dedicated public servant. It is only fitting that we set aside this day each year to honor such an outstanding son of Illinois," Governor Ryan said.

Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States of America was born in Tampico, IL and spent his childhood in Dixon, IL, the place President Reagan considers his hometown. He attended Eureka College from 1928-1932, a small liberal arts institution located in central Illinois, where he majored in economics and sociology.

Before entering politics and government service, President Reagan starred in 53 films as a Hollywood actor and later served as President of the Screen Actors Guild. He also served in the United States Army Air Force and made propaganda films to promote the U.S. war effort. Reagan served two terms as the Governor of the State of California from 1967-1975. In 1980, he was elected to the first of two terms as the President of the United States.

Celebrated as the "Great Communicator" because of his ability to connect with voters to discuss his vision for America, President Reagan worked to stimulate economic growth and achieve "peace through strength" in foreign policy.

Senate Bill 1553 was sponsored by Sen. President James "Pate" Philip (R- Wood Dale), Sen. Todd Sieben (R- Geneseo), Sen. Walter Dudycz (R- Chicago), Rep. Lee Daniels (R-Elmhurst), Rep. Jerry Mitchell (R-Sterling), and Rep. Patti Bellock (R-Hinsdale).