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December 31, 2001
Ryan: $745,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $745,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to Ounce of Prevention, a nonprofit organization that operates a state-of-the art early childhood Educare Center in Chicago's Grand Boulevard community.
December 31, 2001
Ryan: $10.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $10.54 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $10 million to Northwestern University forbiomedical laboratories and offices that are part of the construction of the Lurie Medical Research Center at Fairbanks Court and East Huron Street in Evanston.
December 31, 2001
Ryan: $5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $5.065 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $5 million to Rush Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center to help outfit a new, state-of-the-art bio-medical research facility on its main campus.
December 28, 2001
Ryan: $155,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $155,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $50,000 to the Cook County Forest Preserve to make improvements at Whealan Pool.
December 28, 2001
Ryan: $524,600 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $524,600 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $120,000 to the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria to implement a collaborative biotechnology/biomedical research initiative for the surrounding region.
December 28, 2001
Ryan: $1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.22 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $1 million to Lincoln College, a private, not-for-profit, coeducational, residential junior college in Lincoln, to construct a facility to be called the "Lincoln Center".
December 28, 2001
Security Training Workshops to be Held for Public Water Utilities
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will sponsor twelve vulnerability assessment workshops for public water utilities around the state during January and February 2002.
December 27, 2001
Ryan: $7.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects
for Dupage County and the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $7,838,350 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County and the West Suburbs, including $6 million to the DuPage County Forest Preserve District to purchase 18 acres located in unincorporated DuPage County.
December 27, 2001
Ryan: $212,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $212,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $90,000 to the Village of Steeleville to improve public safety and accessibility of local businesses and public areas throughout the village.
December 27, 2001
Ryan: $450,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $450,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $250,000 to the East St. Louis Fire Department to purchase a new fire truck.
December 24, 2001
Ryan: $650,000 in Illinois First Projects
for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $650,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $400,000 to the City of Oakland to help construct a new water supply system.
December 24, 2001
Ryan: $222,500 in Illinois First Projects for Northern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $222,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northern Illinois, including $200,000 to Northern Illinois University in DeKalb to pave the campus street used to access the new Convocation Center.
December 24, 2001
Ryan: $842,500 in Illinois First Projects
for the North and Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is
releasing $842,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the North and Northwest Suburbs, including $550,000 to the Chicago Horticultural Society to help restore an area of shorelines at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
December 21, 2001
Ryan: $395,000 in Illinois First Projects
for Kankakee/Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $395,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois river valleys, including $300,000 to the Kankakee Township Fire Protection District to remodel and equip a building at 2215 South Kensington Avenue.
December 21, 2001
Ryan: $1.5 Million in Illinois First Projects for Western Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.535 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Western Illinois, including $1.5 million to Knox College, in Galesburg, to renovate Alumni Hall for public and academic purposes.
December 21, 2001
Ryan: $1.3 Million in Illinois First Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,306,610 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $1million to the Village of Evergreen Park to purchase 100 acres of open land.
December 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Encourages Kids and Families to Read Together During the Holidays
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan, today encouraged Illinois families to take time out during this holiday season for reading.
December 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Legislation to Save Retired Teacher Insurance Plan
Legislature Passes Governor’s Plan, Huge Premium Increases Averted
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed a bill into law to save the state’s health insurance plan for Illinois’ 44,000 retired public school teachers and their dependents who faced the prospect of an 80 percent increase in premiums.
December 19, 2001
Illinois Artisans Featured in Christmas Displays
at The White House and Nixon Library
CHICAGO -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced that five Illinois artisans have been selected to create ornaments on behalf of Illinois for display on Christmas Trees at the White House and Nixon Library.
December 19, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs House Bill 2296
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed House Bill 2296, reenacting the criminal law provisions of Public Act 90-456 concerning the Emergency Telephone System Act, the disorderly conduct offense and search warrant provisions.
December 14, 2001
Ryan, ADM Launch First Commercial Grain Shipment
to Cuba in Nearly 40 Years
NEW ORLEANS -- Governor George H. Ryan today joined ADM officials and leaders of the Illinois agriculture industry as the first U.S. commercial shipment of grain since 1963 set sail to Cuba.
December 14, 2001
Ryan Appoints Moore to Post at Natural Resources
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today appointed State Rep. Andrea S. Moore as the assistant director for the Department of Natural Resources, a post that will enable her to use her vast experience in environmental and conservation efforts on behalf of the people of Illinois.
December 14, 2001
Governor Announces New Hilton Reservations Center
in Streator, Illinois
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Hilton Reservations Worldwide (HRW) plans to open a new reservations call center in Streator, Illinois, 90 miles southwest of Chicago. The new center will be one of six the company operates in the United States and will initially employ 75 people. The other centers operate in Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, Washington and California, collectively handling HRW’s 30 million hotel reservation calls each year.
December 12, 2001
Illinois Selected to Host International Biotechnology Conference
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Illinois will host the world’s largest biotechnology exposition, the 2006 Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) International Conference and Exhibition, at Chicago’s McCormick Place.
December 11, 2001
Governor Ryan Accepting Nominations for
Young American Medals Program
Honors Youth for Outstanding Bravery and Service
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service is accepting nominations for the Young American Medals Program, which recognizes the outstanding contributions of young men and women 18 years old or younger.
December 11, 2001
Ryan Orders 42 More Residents
Moved From Lincoln Developmental Center
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today ordered the transfer of 42 residents from the Lincoln Developmental Center to other appropriate care settings because of continual problems at the facility that place residents in jeopardy.
December 10, 2001
Governor Urges Illinoisans to Take Part in Remembrance Day
SPRINGFIELD –- Governor George H. Ryan called on Illinoisans to mark the three-month anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks with a moment of silent reflection and reminded all citizens that the state’s official ceremony will be broadcast live via the Internet.
December 7, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Illinois Tomorrow Award Winners
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan announced that the first “Illinois Tomorrow Awards” highlighting outstanding balanced growth initiatives were presented today.
December 7, 2001
Illinois Takes Part in September 11th Remembrance Event
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced plans for Illinois’ participation in a national day of remembrance on December 11th that has been called by President Bush to honor the three-month anniversary of the terrorist attacks in New York, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania.
December 6, 2001
Governor Ryan, Mayor Daley Agree to Aviation Expansion Plan
Includes O’Hare Expansion, Third Airport in Peotone, and Meigs Field Remains Open
CHICAGO – Governor George H. Ryan and Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley have agreed to a comprehensive aviation plan for the Chicagoland region including expanding O’Hare International Airport, building an airport in south suburban Peotone area, and keeping Meigs Field open for 25 years.
December 6, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Executive Order for Integrated Justice Information System
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Executive Order No. 12, reaffirming his commitment to Illinois’ Integrated Justice Information Systems.
December 5, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces New “Green Government” Initiatives
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today issued a broad-based executive order that will mean a “greener” approach to operations, purchasing and construction activities by state agencies.
December 3, 2001
Gov. Ryan Asks Congress to Pass Regional Airport Plan
O'Hare, Peotone and Meigs Airlines to Continue Subsidizing Meigs
CHICAGO -- Gov. George H. Ryan has asked Congress to pass a legislative package to put Peotone on a faster track with the FAA and approve an O'Hare expansion plan to keep Meigs open for 25 years.
December 3, 2001
Illinois Ranks First in the Nation in Education Technology
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that, in the use of technology, Illinois tied for first in the nation in Education and second in the nation in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)/Transportation. The rankings are based on the fourth round of an extensive study by the Center for Digital Government released today.
November 30, 2001
Ryan Announces World AIDS Day Observance
Lights to be dimmed across the nation
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced Illinois will participate in the nation's 14th annual observance of World AIDS Day by dimming the Capitol dome lights and lights at state government buildings in Springfield and Chicago on the evening of December 1.
November 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Hails Increase in Nationally Certified Teachers
Presents Education Summit Recommendations
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that 163 Illinois teachers achieved National Board Certification this year, nearly doubling the participation of the previous year.
November 30, 2001
Department of Human Services Receives More Than $5 Million to Improve Drug, Alcohol, HIV/AIDS and Treatment Services
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Illinois Department of Human Services' (DHS) Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (OASA) received three Federal grants totaling more than $5 million to improve its drug, alcohol, HIV/AIDS and treatment services and to implement pilot programs designed to expand services in targeted areas.
November 29, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Third Round of Budget Cuts
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the latest round of budget cuts to several agencies to close the state’s $500 million budget shortfall brought on by the September terror attacks. The Governor said some child care funding cut earlier in the week had been restored and that key services to senior citizens and the disabled had been spared.
November 28, 2001
Belvidere Selected for New High–Tech Facility
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that NDK America, Inc.,
a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Nihon Dempa Kogyo Co., has selected Belvidere, Illinois for a new, state-of-the-art facility combining manufacturing with research and development, executive office functions, warehousing, and sales and marketing. The project will lead to the creation of at least fifty new jobs and will employ construction workers over the next fifteen months.
November 28, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces More Budget Cuts
Governor Responds to Post September 11th Economic Downturn
Seeks Legislative Assistance to Lessen Impact of Further Cuts
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today issued a second round of budget cuts in as many days as he seeks to close a state budget gap brought on by the September 11 terror attacks. The latest measures, announced after the Governor met with the General Assembly’s four legislative caucuses, will save the state up to $136 million through the end of fiscal year 2002.
November 27, 2001
Ryan Announces Further Action to Balance the State Budget
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $220 million in spending reductions that are designed to help close a gap in the state budget caused by a slumping national economy and the terrorist attacks of September 11th.
November 26, 2001
Governor Ryan Opens Newest Section of Illinois 336 in West Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today led local officials and state legislators in the ribbon cutting officially opening the new six-mile section of Illinois 336 that brings the Quincy to Macomb expressway to nearly 40% completion.
November 26, 2001
First Lady Meets with Business Leaders to Discuss
Universal Access to Preschool
ABBOTT PARK, IL -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan, members of the Governor’s Task Force on Universal Access to Preschool, Miles White, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Abbott Laboratories, other representatives of Abbott Laboratories and community leaders today met to discuss the need for access to quality early childhood care and education.
November 20, 2001
Ryan: $175,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects
for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $175,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the far Northwest Suburbs, including $100,000 to the Village of Bull Valley to renovate an existing barn on Cherry Valley Road into a Village Hall/Police Station.
November 20, 2001
Ryan: $306,800 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $306,800 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $236,800 to Schaumburg Township to purchase lighting, an underground watering system, office furniture and equipment, software, a 19 passenger wheelchair lift equipped bus and to make improvements to a walkway at its township building.
November 20, 2001
Ryan: $4.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $4.879 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $4.7 million to the Northshore School District 112 to the capital costs of the recently completed construction of Oak Terrace School in Highwood.
November 20, 2001
Ryan: $1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,237,250 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects for the South Suburbs, including $500,000 to Calumet City to help replace sidewalk and a parkway along Burnham Avenue from Sibley Boulevard to Michigan City Road.
November 19, 2001
Ryan: $65,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $65,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $60,000 to Old Ripley Township to repair and purchase parts for the road district's equipment.
November 19, 2001
Ryan: $50,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $50,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $40,000 to the Henderson Fire Protection District to help purchase a new water tanker.
November 19, 2001
Ryan: $713,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects
for Kankakee/Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $713,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois river valleys, including $250,000 to the City of Ottawa to purchase 62.5 acres of property east of the city, commonly known as Harpers Farm.
November 19, 2001
Ryan: $245,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $245,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northern Illinois, including $150,000 to the Blackhawk Valley Riding for the Handicapped to expand its facility.
November 19, 2001
Ryan: $225,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $225,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $115,000 to the Village of Dowell to replace a bridge on West Road in the southwest corner of the village.
November 16, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Open Land Trust Acquisition of Duck Island, Adjacent to Rice Lake Conservation Area in Fulton County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the state is acquiring the 1,209-acre Duck Island property adjacent to the Rice Lake Conservation Area in Fulton County through his Open Land Trust initiative, providing enhanced natural resource protection and outdoor recreation opportunities.
November 16, 2001
Ryan: $120,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $120,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $40,000 to the General Robert E. Wood Boys and Girls Club to replace outdated office equipment, purchase maintenance supplies, defray transportation costs and enable the staff to attend training classes.
November 16, 2001
Ryan: $435,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $435,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $150,000 to the Northlake Fire Protection District to purchase a new ambulance and upgrade its equipment with new tanks, harnesses, and masks.
November 16, 2001
Ryan: $9.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $9,778,700 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $2.5 million to Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 to help renovate York High School.
November 16, 2001
Ryan: $11.9 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $11.928 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $10 million to Chicago State University to construct a Convocation Center at the university.
November 16, 2001
Ryan: $570,900 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $570,900 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $325,900 to the Cambodian Association of Illinois to expand and renovate its community center.
November 15, 2001
AmerenCIPS Donates $250,000
to Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
SPRINGFIELD – Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a $250,000 donation from AmerenCIPS for the construction and operation of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
November 15, 2001
Governor and Mrs. Ryan Challenge Kids to Read with New “Illinois Reads in Special Places” Campaign
SPRINGFIELD – Gov. George H. Ryan today announced a new campaign to challenge children to read. Recognizing that every community has a “special place”—a centerpiece that marks the individuality of each city, village or town in Illinois-- the “Illinois Reads in Special Places” campaign encourages school classes to take time to read at that place and then submit drawings, essays, poems of the experience to the Governor’s office in Springfield.
November 14, 2001
Ryan Creates ‘International High School’ Program for Students
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today marked International Education Week by announcing the creation of the first-ever International High School Program in Illinois, an initiative that will help students better understand and use the economic, historic and cultural links our state shares with other countries.
November 14, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Supplemental Request to Boost Homeland Security Efforts, Combat Bioterrorism
$17 Million Needed Immediately for Labs, Police, Fire and National Guard
Builds Upon Proactive Efforts of Terrorism Task Force
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced he will seek a supplemental appropriation of $17 million to meet the state’s immediate needs for domestic preparedness. The money will bolster the state’s already proactive efforts to prepare for bioterrorism by investing in the state public health lab system and establishing a pharmaceutical stockpile.
November 14, 2001
Ryan Endorses Proposal for Retired
Teachers’ Insurance Program
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today endorsed a plan from his Teachers’ Retirement Insurance Program Task Force that will save the state’s health insurance for nearly 44,000 public school teacher retirees and their dependents from insolvency.
November 14, 2001
Teacher Shortage Expected to Dramatically Rise
Between 2004 and 2006
SPRINGFIELD -– The shortage of quality teachers in Illinois is expected to significantly increase over the next three to five years, according to the Illinois State Board of Education.
November 9, 2001
Department of Human Services Receives $2.25 Million Federal
Award for Assistive Technology
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Department of Human Services (DHS) has been awarded $2.25 million from the U.S. Department of Education to establish the TechConnect Low Interest Loan Program.
November 9, 2001
Ryan: $4.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $4.11 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $2.5 million to Millikin University to help renovate the Scovill Science Hall on its Decatur campus.
November 8, 2001
Illinois’ Draft Energy Policy Now Online
Governor Announces $1.3 Million in New Grants for Renewable Energy Projects
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the state’s developing energy policy drafted by the Energy Cabinet is now available to the public for comment by logging onto the state’s website at www.state.il.us/gov/energy. Interested citizens can email comments on the policy to ilenergypolicy@state.il.us before December 8, 2001.
November 8, 2001
Governor Hosts Illinois Mathematics Summit
Experts Focus on Mathematics Education in Illinois
NAPERVILLE, IL -- Governor George Ryan invited representatives of higher education, K-12 educators, state and local policymakers and business and community members to gather today at the Illinois Mathematics Summit held at Northern Illinois University’s Naperville Campus.
November 7, 2001
Governor’s Parole Initiative Cracks Down on Crime
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than 14,781 parolees were returned to prison in FY01 as a result of the revitalized parole operation, including "Operation Windy City," which is a joint effort between the Illinois Department of Corrections and the Chicago Police Department. This marked a significant increase from the 8,150 parolees returned in FY00 and the 7,076 in FY99.
November 6, 2001
Governor Announces Major Acquisition in Madison County for Confluence Greenway Project
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced the state's acquisition of more than 2,000 acres in Madison County, which will become part of the Confluence Greenway, a 40-mile area extending from St. Louis to Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton.
November 6, 2001
The Governor's Summit on Education to Examine Teacher Preparation Practices
SPRINGFIELD -- The Governor's Summit on Education, to be held in Springfield on November 19, will focus on the critical teacher quality and shortage issues and will address our teachers' mastery of basic skills and subject areas.
November 5, 2001
Eagle Wings Industries to Open New Manufacturing Facility in Olney
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Eagle Wings Industries, Inc. (EWI) will open a new manufacturing facility in Olney through its Richland Manufacturing Division. The company will invest approximately $8.5 million in order to occupy the former Marwi bicycle facility leading to the creation of at least 50 new jobs.
November 2, 2001
Ryan Makes Appointment to the Gaming Board
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today appointed Tobias G. Barry to the Illinois Gaming Board.
November 2, 2001
National Guard to Provide Visible Security Presence at Nuclear Plants
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the Illinois National Guard will take a more visible presence at Illinois Nuclear Plants joining security measures already in place. This enhanced visible presence will last throughout the period that U. S. Attorney General John Ashcroft indicated American citizens should be on a heightened state of vigilance.
November 2, 2001
Ryan: $676,350 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $676,350 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the West Suburbs, including $250,000 to the City of Lockport to reconstruct the Farrell Road Bridge over Fiddyment Creek.
November 1, 2001
Governor's Summit on Education to Examine Shortage and Quality of Teachers
SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois education leaders, policy-makers, legislators, business, labor and civic leaders from around the state will come together for the first time in nearly 20 years on November 19, 2001 to address critical teacher quality and shortages that have become the cornerstone of the education challenges facing Illinois and the United States.
November 1, 2001
Ryan: $655,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $655,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the far Northwest Suburbs, including $100,000 to the Village of Hinckley to expand its waste water/sewage treatment plant in order to meet current Illinois Environmental Protection Agency requirements. This project will remove the village from IEPA's "restrictive status." The village is contributing $695,000. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Patricia Linder R-Aurora.
November 1, 2001
Ryan: $92,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee/Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $92,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Kankakee and the Illinois river valleys, including $60,000 to Florence Township to purchase a new dump truck and snow plow. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Sen. Larry Walsh, D-Elwood.
November 1, 2001
Ryan: $140,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County and the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $140,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County and the Northwest Suburbs, including $50,000 to the International Center on Deafness and the Arts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the enhancement of the total development of children who are deaf and hard of hearing through quality experiences in the arts. The Center will purchase visual recognition equipment, two TDD telephone units, lighting, speakers, display cases and carpeting for its center in Northbrook. The organization is contributing $40,000. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Elizabeth Coulson, R-Glenview.
November 1, 2001
Ryan: $81,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $81,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $30,000 to Rock River Valley Self Help Enterprises, a not-for-profit corporation that provides services to mentally, physically and socially challenged persons in Whiteside County. The agency will install a new heating system and upgrade its technology system at its West LeFevre Road facility in Sterling. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Ronald Lawfer, R-Stockton.
November 1, 2001
Ryan: $855,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Quincy and Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $855,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Quincy and Southwestern Illinois, including $500,000 to South Central Mass Transit to acquire land and construct an office building at the corner of Locust and Broadway Streets in Centralia.
October 31, 2001
Governor Announces 2001 Community Development Assistance Program Housing Rehabilitation Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that 24 communities will share $7,500,000 in 2001 Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP) Housing Rehabilitation grant awards.
October 30, 2001
Ryan: $4.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $4,543,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $4,000,000 to the City Colleges of Chicago to assist in the construction of its new Kennedy King campus at 64th and Halsted.
October 30, 2001
Ryan: $2.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.48 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $1 million to the Lincoln Park Zoo to renovate its three acre Farm-in-the-Zoo attraction.
October 30, 2001
Ryan: $627,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $627,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $400,000 to the Village of Franklin Park for the concrete paving of all non-paved alleys in conjunction with enhanced storm water drainage for those alleys. The village is contributing $400,000. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Angelo "Skip" Saviano, R-Elmwood Park.
October 30, 2001
Ryan: $2.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,341,400 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $1,500,000 to Elim Christian Services in Palos Heights.
October 30, 2001
Ryan: $12.9 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $12,965,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $6,000,000 to Elmhurst College for upgrading the campus and its facilities.
October 30, 2001
Governor Announces Funds to Help Juveniles in Detention Receive Mental Health Services
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced $2.5 million will be administered through the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS)--as part of the Futures for Kids Initiative--to provide mental health services to all juvenile detention centers in Illinois.
October 29, 2001
Reading Kits Help Teachers Improve Reading Achievement
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan and the Illinois State Board of Education will provide teachers with "reading kits," for the second year in a row. A part of Gov. Ryan's Illinois Reads initiative, Reading Kits are a valuable resource for improving reading achievement in Illinois classrooms.
October 26, 2001
Ryan Awards Snowmobile Trail Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today awarded snowmobile trail grants totaling $371,670 to eight local governments and 10 private organizations to develop and maintain public snowmobile trails in Illinois.
October 26, 2001
Ryan: $445,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $445,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $420,000 to the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce to assist in phase two of the O'Hare Cargo Security Project. Phase two will use a fingerprint "smart card" access system to expedite the transfer of cargo from trucks to airplanes and enhance multi-modal security by developing an Internet-based cargo manifest. It is anticipated that this new system will be two-to-four times faster than the existing manual system and will enhance efficiency.
October 26, 2001
Ryan: $2.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,595,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $1,800,000 to the Masonic Children's Home to construct a children's home on 42 acres of donated land west of Murphysboro in Jackson County.
October 26, 2001
Ryan: $8.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $8.31 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northern Illinois, including $7.8 million to Northern Illinois University to construct a chilled water plant.
October 26, 2001
Ryan: $36,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $36,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $25,000 to the Champaign Park District to construct a workers memorial in Dodds Park.
October 26, 2001
Ryan: $940,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $940,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $500,000 to Bradley University for the West Main Development Association, a not-for-profit group that provides planning and coordination of redevelopment opportunities for business, civic, and governmental units within the Peoria area.
October 26, 2001
Ryan: $506,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $506,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $150,000 to the Department of Agriculture to help construct a cover over the warm up ring immediately south of the coliseum on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
October 26, 2001
Ryan Redesignates Gidwitz as Illinois State Board of Education Chair
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the redesignation of Ronald J. Gidwitz as Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education.
October 26, 2001
Governor and First Lady Host Halloween at Executive Mansion
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor and Mrs. Ryan will welcome all kindergarten through 6th grade elementary school children to parade in their costumes at the Illinois Executive Mansion for the annual "No Tricks-Just Treats" event on Sunday, October 28, 2001.
October 26, 2001
Ryan Makes Appointments to Toll Highway Authority
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced appointments to the Illinois Toll Highway Authority.
October 25, 2001
Ryan Lauds Businesses for Achievements in Pollution Prevention
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today commended 17 companies for their achievements in reducing toxic air emissions and hazardous, solid and liquid wastes in presenting the 15th annual Governor's Pollution Prevention Awards.
October 25, 2001
Governor Announces State Agencies to Receive Federal Grants Assisting Persons with Developmental Disabilities
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the Illinois Department on Aging and the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) each has been awarded grants to supplement existing efforts to help persons with disabilities. The Department on Aging has been awarded a $174,684 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to help elderly parents of adult children with developmental disabilities better plan for their current and future needs. DHS was awarded an $800,000 grant to help persons with disabilities and long term illnesses remain in their communities.
October 24, 2001
Hillside Strangler Relief is Here
Congestion Relief, Safety Improvements and Economic Boost Arrive Ahead of Schedule
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today kicked off the opening of the new Hillside Interchange, delivering on his pledge to eliminate the Hillside Strangler, the worst traffic snarl in the state and one of the 20 worst congestion points in the country.
October 24, 2001
Reunion Industries Moving to Libertyville
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Reunion Industries, Inc., a diversified manufacturer of metal and plastic products, is relocating its Milwaukee-based T.J. Brooks' cylinder manufacturing facility to Libertyville. The project will result in at least 40 new jobs in Illinois.
October 23, 2001
New Manufacturing Facility Coming to Galesburg
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that as a result of a cooperative effort between the public and private sectors, Advanced Minerals Corporation will locate a new 30,000 square-foot mineral processing plant in Galesburg. The facility will produce new, high performance, industrial mineral products and will ultimately lead to more than 30 new jobs.
October 23, 2001
Ryan Announces Acquisition of 345 Acres of Land Adjacent to Goose Lake Prairie in Grundy County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the acquisition of 345 acres of land adjacent to Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area and Heidecke Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Grundy County to protect high-quality prairie and provide habitat for grassland and wetland wildlife.
October 23, 2001
Ryan Announces $5 Million in Workforce Training Funding
Annual Workforce Conference Discusses Ways to Meet Economic Challenges
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced $5 million in workforce funding to address critical needs in Illinois. The centers, which bring together a variety of state and local workforce development services under one roof, are designed to provide individuals with labor market skills and give employers access to qualified workers. There are 44 comprehensive one-stop centers and 54 satellite centers serving Illinois residents.
October 23, 2001
Governor Announces Homeland Security Regional Training Seminars
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the schedule and locations of a series of 16 statewide Homeland Security training seminars. Governor Ryan directed the Illinois Emergency Management Agency to coordinate the regional seminars last week. The seminars are scheduled to begin October 29 and conclude on December 7 (see-attached schedule).
October 19, 2001
Elder Abuse Task Force Submits Report to Governor
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today received recommendations from the 31-member Elder Abuse Task Force he appointed last year to develop a plan to combat the growing problem of financial exploitation of seniors.
October 18, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Safe Airports for the Economy
Regional Airport Plan to Modernize O'Hare, Build Peotone, Enhance Security Keeps Meigs Open, Utilize Rockford's Airport
CHICAGO -- Gov. George H. Ryan unveiled a comprehensive, long-range, regional aviation plan to stimulate the economy by building an airport in Peotone, modernizing O'Hare with a reconfigured airfield, utilizing Meigs Field and Rockford's Airport, and enhancing the security of Illinois airports with a $300 million low-interest loan program to purchase security technology.
October 15, 2001
Governor Ryan says State Preparing for Terrorist Threats
Governor's Illinois Terrorism Task Force Formed Last Spring, Training, Planning Must Continue. Homeland Security Coordinator Named
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today briefed state and local officials on the state of Illinois' domestic preparedness, which includes a fully trained Illinois Terrorism Task Force formed by the administration last Spring. The Governor also named a state Homeland Security Coordinator to continue coordinating on domestic security issues with the White House.
October 12, 2001
Ryan Appoints Blue Ribbon Panel to Search for Candidates to Run Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan announced today that he has appointed a six member committee to conduct a national search to identify candidates to run the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
October 11, 2001
Governor Calls for Statewide Education Summit in November
Summit to create a legislative agenda to improve recruitment and quality of teachers
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor Ryan today issued a call for education, business, labor and community leaders to participate in a statewide education summit to examine Illinois' teacher shortage and to explore strategies for improving the quality of teaching in Illinois.
October 11, 2001
Governor Announces Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Now Underway
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Illinois is now underway. Illinois households with disabled or elderly members, and those who are disconnected from their utilities, may now apply for heating assistance at locations throughout the state. (See attached list.)
October 9, 2001
Illinois Joins the Largest Early Childhood Classroom in History
HeadsUp! Reading promotes literacy statewide
SPRINGFIELD -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan announced that Illinois is one of seven states offering HeadsUp! Reading, a groundbreaking, distance-learning course that provides teachers with the latest research on how children learn to read and write. With 32 down link sites throughout the state, participants will join the largest early childhood "classroom" in history.
October 5, 2001
Youth Featured in Illinois' New Youth Drug Prevention Campaign
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor and Mrs. George H. Ryan announced today that a group of Illinois students were selected to be spotlighted in Be Real, a new youth alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention initiative sponsored by the State of Illinois' Futures for Kids program.
October 5, 2001
Ryan Orders Reform Program at Lincoln Developmental Center
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today initiated extensive reforms in the operation of the Lincoln Developmental Center designed to maintain the highest quality care for the facility's 370 residents.
October 4, 2001
Caterpillar Inc. Donates $1 Million to Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a $1 million donation from Caterpillar Inc. for the construction and operation of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
October 4, 2001
Governor Announces New "Make It Illinois" Program
Special travel packages and hotel, theater and other discounts are available to encourage fall travel in Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a new marketing program designed to stimulate tourism statewide. "Make it Illinois" allows consumers to choose from a variety of travel packages--from as low as $49.00--and receive great discounts on hotels, restaurants, theater tickets, and more.
October 4, 2001
Cook County Receives U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Declaration
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved his request for disaster assistance to homeowners, renters, landlords and business owners located in Cook County and the neighboring Counties of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will. This disaster declaration is a result of the flooding that struck the Chicagoland area August 2, 25 & 30.
October 3, 2001
Governor Ryan Meets with Illinois National Guard Troops Called to Active Duty for Airport Security
BLOOMINGTON -- Governor George H. Ryan today met with members of the Illinois National Guard that have been called to active duty for increased security at the state's commercial airports. More than 200 members of the Illinois National Guard will begin their mission of supplementing security at 12 airports throughout Illinois Thursday, October 4.
October 3, 2001
Governor Ryan Returns from New York City
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan's second day in New York City was marked by meetings with members of the financial industry to discuss the economic health of Illinois and to demonstrate Illinois' support for members of the financial community who suffered losses in the September 11 attacks.
October 2, 2001
Mrs. Ryan to Share Reading with Children as Part of Illinois Reads and Springfield Area Book Donation Program
SPRINGFIELD -- As part of Governor Ryan's statewide Illinois Reads initiative, First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan will make a special appearance with Coca-Cola and the Reading is Fundamental StoryTravelers Wednesday (Oct. 3) to read to children and to help distribute free books to families.
October 2, 2001
Governor Proclaims Residents' Rights Week and Long Term Care Ombudsman Day
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today proclaimed the week of October 7-13 as Residents' Rights Week in Illinois, calling attention to the more than 100,000 Illinois citizens who reside in long term care facilities.
October 2, 2001
Governor Ryan Leads Business Delegation to New York City
Meets with Mayor Giuliani, Governor Pataki
NEW YORK -- Governor George H. Ryan and a delegation of business leaders will travel to New York City this morning to express support for Governor Pataki and Mayor Giuliani as they lead the recovery efforts after the September 11 terrorist attacks and to promote Illinois and New York returning to business.
October 1, 2001
Governor Ryan Welcomes the Plastics USA Convention to Illinois
Extends red carpet treatment to first major convention since 9/11
CHICAGO -- In a show of support for one of Chicago and Illinois' most important industries, Illinois Governor George Ryan and a delegation of convention executives welcomed the first major trade show since the September 11th terrorist attacks.
October 1, 2001
Ryan Announces Final Acquisition of Land for Illinois' Largest State Park
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the state has acquired 9,111 acres of property in Perry County through his Open Land Trust program, completing the purchase of land for Illinois' largest state park.
September 27, 2001
Ryan Announces Reading School-Home Links in 170 Illinois Elementary Schools
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that kindergarten through 3rd grade teachers from 170 schools across the state have just received a new tool to help their students excel in reading. Created in cooperation with Gov. Ryan's Advisory Council on Literacy and Illinois Reads, School-Home Links are activities that teachers ask families to use with their children at home to reinforce reading concepts taught in the classroom.
September 25, 2001
Ryan: $107,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $107,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford Area, including $50,000 to Boone County to support the development of its New-Uses Agricultural Technology Center (Ag-Tech Park) project.
September 25, 2001
Ryan: $1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.359 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $1,000,000 to the Rock Island Mental Health Center to relocate and purchase a building.
September 25, 2001
Ryan: $150,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $150,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $100,000 to the Department of Agriculture to complete construction of a shelter over the warm-up ring south of the Coliseum on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
September 25, 2001
Ryan: $610,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $610,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $450,000 to the City of Pontiac to make road improvements throughout the city. These improvements will improve traffic flow to the new State Police District Headquarters and the new county jail site. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Dan Rutherford, R-Chenoa.
September 25, 2001
Ryan: $1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.314 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Far Northwest Suburbs, including $200,000 to the City of Crystal Lake to make intersection improvements at Illinois Route 176 and Walkup Avenue.
September 25, 2001
Ryan: $250,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $250,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $250,000 to the Village of Roselle to construct a pedestrian and bicycle bridge.
September 25, 2001
2001 Governor's Illinois Coal Conference Examines State and Federal Energy Initiatives
SPRINGFIELD -- Coal and electric power industry representatives are meeting in Springfield this week for the 2001 Governor's Illinois Coal Conference. Industry leaders and government officials are looking to sustain the momentum gained in recent months by bringing into focus the benefits of Illinois coal as a reliable fuel source for the future.
September 24, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces $7 Million in Grants for Local Conservation 2000 Projects
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $7 million in grants to 34 local private-public partnerships for natural resource protection projects under the Illinois Conservation 2000 program.
September 21, 2001
Governor and First Lady Conduct Ceremonial Beam Signing for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today was joined by First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan and local dignitaries in signing a structural steel support beam for the new Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library building now under construction.
September 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Illinois' Return to Bond Market
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today the state had moved forward in the sale of $110 million in Build Illinois refunding bonds, a transaction that had been put on hold in light of last week's tragic national events. The state's sale represented the first state general obligation or revenue bond issue marketed since September 11.
September 20, 2001
Governor Ryan and Lieutenant Governor Wood Thank Workers at Illinois Emergency Operations Center
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and Lieutenant Governor Corinne Wood today visited the Illinois Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to let the public know IEMA is coordinating with all of the federal, state and local public safety agencies as well as with 41 states across the country; and to thank the team of people who led the local response to last week's terrorist acts in New York and Washington, D.C.
September 20, 2001
Governor Ryan: $21,580,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $21,580,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Suburban Cook County, including $21,000,000 to Cook County Forest Preserve District for restoration, maintenance and facility upgrades throughout the district. Approximately 40 million people visit the various forest preserves every year.
September 20, 2001
Governor Ryan: $1,809,780 in Illinois FIRST Projects for South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,809,780 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $390,500 to the Village of Dolton to convert a vacant lot into a small municipal park. Completion of this project, which includes the construction of a fountain, will enhance the beauty of the village hall and its surroundings. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Sen. Bill Shaw, D-Dolton.
September 20, 2001
Governor Ryan: $1.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,538,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $280,000 to the Village of Palatine for the construction of a new fire station. The village will contribute $322,875.
September 20, 2001
Governor Ryan: $819,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $819,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $276,000 to Elmhurst Memorial Hospital to perform an engineering and structural assessment for needed repairs to a parking garage structure and to re-engineer and restripe five parking lots.
September 20, 2001
Governor Ryan: $1.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,471,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the West Suburbs, including $250,000 to the City of Aurora to purchase and install a storm sewer on Garfield Avenue.
September 19, 2001
Governor Ryan Calls on Congress to Assist the Airline Industry
Convenes business and tourism leaders to rally federal support
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today called on the United States Congress to take swift action to stabilize the reeling airline industry and prevent further job cuts for the airlines, aircraft manufacturers and tourism industries.
September 19, 2001
Governor First Lady Promotes Unique New Handbook For Parents
Helps parents take part in, understand children's education
CHICAGO -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today unveiled a first-of-its-kind handbook that gives Illinois parents helpful tips and ideas to better understand and participate in their children's education.
September 18, 2001
Governor Announces Illinois FIRST Grant to GoodField Will Provide For Company Expansion and 50 New Jobs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the approval of $222,100 in Illinois FIRST grants to the Village of Goodfield for roadway construction in Goodfield Business Park that will support a new business and 50 new jobs.
September 18, 2001
Governor Announces Illinois FIRST Grant to Marion That Will Help Create 90 New Jobs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the approval of $506,700 in Illinois FIRST grants to the city of Marion for roadway improvements in Butler industrial park to support the expansion of two firms that will result in 90 new jobs.
September 18, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Illinois FIRST Grant to Mt. Carmel
Will bring 30 new jobs to area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the approval of $128,000 in Illinois FIRST grants to the city of Mt. Carmel for road improvements in Mt. Carmel Industrial Park that will support a new business and 30 new jobs.
September 18, 2001
First Lady Unveils Underage Alcohol Prevention Poster with Chicago Bears Safety Tony Parrish
CHICAGO -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn today unveiled a new poster designed to discourage underage drinking and alcohol sales to minors. Mrs. Ryan was joined by Chicago Bears safety Tony Parrish, Bears co-owners Ed and Virginia McCaskey and their son Pat at the unveiling in the James R. Thompson Center. Parrish abstains from drinking alcohol and is working with the Illinois Liquor Control Commission's Under 21 Program in the "Bear Down On Underage Sales" campaign. The poster will be sent to all of Illinois' liquor licensees. The laws and penalties of drinking underage and serving a minor are listed on the bottom of the poster.
September 18, 2001
Ryan: $1.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.7 million in Illinois FIRSTfunding for projects in Chicago, including $1.5 million to the Lookingglass Theatre to renovate the Chicago Avenue Pumping Station facility in the Water Tower Water Works building, which will become its permanent location.
September 18, 2001
Ryan: $1.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.49 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to the Women Employed Institute to develop an information technology campaign.
September 18, 2001
Ryan: $233,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $233,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $120,000 to Horizons Community Services to support its staff and a multi agency policy advocacy and education project.
September 18, 2001
Ryan: $532,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $532,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $200,000 to the City of Mt. Carmel to help fund two water main projects that will promote local commercial and residential development and improve traffic safety. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. John Jones, R-Mt. Vernon.
September 18, 2001
Ryan: $200,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $200,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $100,000 to the Greater East St. Louis Chamber of Commerce for a research grant to formulate an economic recovery model for the revitalization of the East St. Louis area. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Wyvetter H. Younge, D-East St. Louis.
September 17, 2001
State Allows Extensions for Taxpayers Affected by Attacks
State gas prices level off following weekend inspections
CHICAGO -- Gov. George H. Ryan says the Illinois Department of Revenue will provide income tax filing extensions to taxpayers affected by the terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington D.C. Meanwhile, the Governor is also reporting that state inspections of gas stations have resulted in a rollback in gas prices in downstate Illinois.
September 14, 2001
Ryan Orders Gas Station Inspections After Reports of High Prices
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today ordered the first wave of state inspections at service stations throughout Illinois to investigate reports of high gasoline pump prices.
September 13, 2001
Governor Ryan Declares Day of Prayer and Remembrance in Illinois
Joins President Bush in Supporting Victims and Families of Tuesday's Attack
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today declared Friday, September 14, 2001 a "Day of Prayer and Remembrance" in Illinois in support of the American people and in remembrance of the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks.
September 13, 2001
Ryan: $9.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $9.115 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $5.4 million to Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 to help renovate York High School.
September 13, 2001
Ryan: $354,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $354,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the West Suburbs, including $230,900 to the City of Naperville for the first phase of engineering associated with roadway improvements to Illinois Route 59 between Ferry Road and Meridian Parkway/Glacier Park Avenue.
September 13, 2001
Ryan: $133,200 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $133,200 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $50,000 to the Winslow School District 202 to replace all the windows in the elementary school.
September 13, 2001
Ryan: $3.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central and North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.29 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central and North Central Illinois, including $60,000 to Lincoln Elementary District 27 to purchase and install lighting and bleachers for the softball and baseball fields at Ralph Gale Field. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Sen. Claude "Bud" Stone, R-Morton.
September 13, 2001
Ryan: $90,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County and the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $90,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County and the Northwest Suburbs, including $75,000 to the Northeastern Illinois Jr. Golf Alliance, Inc., to construct a golf learning facility for low-income students in North Chicago.
September 12, 2001
Ryan: $290,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $290,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $100,000 to Belleville Township to construct a baseball field.
September 12, 2001
Ryan: $945,600 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern and East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $945,600 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $93,000 to the Casey Township Volunteer Fire Department to purchase equipment and supplies and to provide training to its firefighters.
September 12, 2001
Ryan: $152,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee/Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $152,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois river valleys, including $100,000 to the City of LaSalle for the recently created LaSalle Historic Preservation Commission that will oversee the revitalization of the city's downtown as the LaSalle Historic District.
September 12, 2001
Ryan: $215,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $215,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Far Northwest Suburbs, including $60,000 to the Village of West Dundee to reconstruct and repair the driveway and parking area at the Public Safety Center.
September 12, 2001
A Statement from Governor George H. Ryan
"President Bush has ordered that all American Flags be lowered to half staff until sundown on Sunday, September 16, 2001, as a mark of our deepest respect for all of those killed by the heinous acts of violence committed on September 11.
September 11, 2001
Illinois State Emergency Agencies Prepared
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan issued the following statement in response to the apparent terrorist attacks in New York, Washington and on domestic airliners:
"Today's apparent terrorist attacks are cowardly attempts to break the will of the American people. They failed. My heart goes out to the victims and their families. I join with the people of Illinois in praying for them. Their pain and suffering is beyond imagination. But the spirit of the American people and of democracy is strong. It cannot break."
September 10, 2001
Guinness UDV to Expand in Plainfield
New Process and Packaging Line Brings 80 New Jobs
PLAINFIELD, IL -- Governor George H. Ryan today took part in a celebration of the expansion of Guinness UDV's Plainfield facility. The 90,000 square foot addition will allow the company to increase production capacity at the plant through the addition of a Ready to Drink (RTD) process and packaging line. The expansion will result in the creation of 80 new jobs.
September 6, 2001
Literacy Institute to be Part of Lincoln Presidential Library
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is enlisting the opinions of literacy experts and education leaders to help him form the Abraham Lincoln Institute for Literacy in America, one of the planned policy arms of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which is now under construction.
September 6, 2001
Governor Renames Park to Honor Hazel and Bill Rutherford
PEORIA -- Gov. George H. Ryan today renamed Wildlife Prairie State Park after Hazel and Bill Rutherford, who created the park and donated it to the state last year.
September 5, 2001
Governor Ryan, Mayor Daley Welcome Boeing Home
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan and Mayor Richard M. Daley today welcomed Chairman and CEO of The Boeing Company Phil Condit and relocated and new Boeing employees to their new global headquarters at 100 N. Riverside, Chicago.
September 5, 2001
Governor Releases Grant to Help Construct New Field Museum Research Center
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today released $20 million in Illinois FIRST funds to The Field Museum in Chicago to help construct a new Collections Resource Center. The facility will house the Museum's worldrenowned anthropology and zoology collections and provide essential laboratory space for researchers. The construction of a new east entrance is also being planned as part of the expansion to better accommodate people with special needs and visiting school groups.
September 5, 2001
Ryan: $259,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $259,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $150,000 to the Raven Theatre Company for the interior construction of its newly acquired playhouse at Granville Avenue and Clark Street in the Edgewater community.
September 5, 2001
Ryan: $711,600 In Illinois FIRST Projects For Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $711,600 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $525,000 to the Loyola University of Chicago School of Nursing to establish and maintain a school-based Health Center at Proviso East High School in Maywood.
September 5, 2001
Ryan: $886,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $886,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $600,000 to the Village of Lynwood to purchase land for the construction of the Southland Sports & Exposition Center.
September 5, 2001
Ryan: $6.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $6.798 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $5 million to Chicago State University to construct a Convocation Center at the university.
September 5, 2001
Ryan: $265,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $265,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $75,000 to the People's Community Development Association of Chicago to further develop its Custodial Care Training and Job Placement program.
September 5, 2001
Governor Announces Department of Professional Regulations Wins National E-Government Technology Award
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today congratulated the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation (IDPR) on winning a national technology award from the National Association of State Chief Administrators (NASCA) for the agency's innovative e-batch License Renewal program. Illinois competed against approximately 30 other nominations from several states for the award, which was announced at NASCA's annual conference.
August 31, 2001
Ryan Announces Amateur Trapshooting Association to Locate in Randolph County
SPARTA -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the Amateur Trapshooting Association will relocate its national headquarters, museum and sport shooting complex to a 1,300-acre site in Randolph County north of Sparta.
August 31, 2001
Governor Awards more than $1.2 Million in Grants to Plug Abandoned Oil and Gas Wells
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today awarded more than $1.27 million in grants to plug more than 300 abandoned oil and gas wells in 21 Illinois Counties.
August 31, 2001
Ryan Breaks Ground for Southern Illinois University Construction Project, Announces Funds for Library Expansion
CARBONDALE -- Governor George H. Ryan today broke ground on a $11.6 million renovation and expansion project for Altgeld Hall on Southern Illinois University's Carbondale campus and announced that the state would provide nearly $2 million to modernize and renovate Morris Library, the main library on the SIUC campus.
August 30, 2001
Governor Announces Release of Over $7 Million in Illinois FIRST School Construction Grants
MARION -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $7 million in Illinois FIRST School Construction grants for Marion Community Unit School District 2 and Carbondale's Unity Point Consolidated School District 140, marking the state's continued dedication to provide modern and improved learning facilities for Illinois school children.
August 30, 2001
Ryan Announces Reopening of Southern Illinois Coal Mine
HARRISBURG -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced the planned reopening of Liberty Mine in Saline County, which will rehire 120 coal miners.
August 30, 2001
Governor Announces Effort to Promote Insurance Counseling Program for Seniors
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan has proclaimed September 10-14, 2001, SHIP Week in Illinois to increase public awareness about the state's free insurance counseling program for Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers.
August 30, 2001
Governor Urges Parents to Enroll Children in Kidcare as School Begins
166,000 presently enrolled in children's health insurance program
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today urged parents to enroll their children in the KidCare health insurance program as part of their back-to-school activities.
August 30, 2001
Ryan Announces Information Technology Training Grant for Disabled Citizens
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) has been awarded $600,000 from the U.S. Department of Labor to improve job opportunities for persons with disabilities. The grant will enable the department to create an "Access to Information Technology Education and Careers" program, administered by DHS' Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS).
August 29, 2001
Ryan: $700,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $700,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to the Chicago Foundation for Women to fund computer hardware and software for not-for-profit community organizations serving women and girls in Chicago and the five collar counties.
August 29, 2001
Governor Announces Projects for Fort Massac
METROPOLIS -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $4.45 million project to reconstruct Ft. Massac, the frontier fort built by the French in 1757.
August 28, 2001
Illinois Students Show Great Improvement -- Again -- On SAT Test
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today congratulated the state's high school seniors on their SAT college placement scores because Illinois' composite score showed the greatest improvement among the states over the last year.
August 28, 2001
Ryan Cuts Ribbon for New K-3 School in Mt. Vernon
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today cut the ribbon for the new Mt. Vernon City Schools District 80 Primary Center. Classes will start tomorrow at the Primary Center, which will house 42 classrooms with a capacity for 800 students.
August 27, 2001
Governor Participates in Ethanol Research Pilot Plant Groundbreaking
EDWARDSVILLE -- Governor George H. Ryan today joined with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, U.S. Congressmen John Shimkus, and Southern Illinois University President Dr. James Walker in breaking ground for the state-of-the-art National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Pilot Plant (NCERPP) at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
August 23, 2001
Ryan: $225,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $225,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $100,000 to the Chicago Horticultural Society to restore an eroding shoreline and to establish aquatic planting beds at the Chicago Botanic Garden. The society is contributing $210,000. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Sen. Kathleen K. Parker, R-Northbrook.
August 23, 2001
Ryan: $1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.213 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $600,000 to Elim Christian Services, a nonprofit organization that provides services to persons with physical and/or developmental disabilities in the Chicago area, to construct a greenhouse on its property in Palos Heights.
August 23, 2001
Ryan: $640,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $640,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $450,000 to the Village of Lyons to eliminate a blighted area of the village.
August 23, 2001
Ryan: $545,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $545,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $300,000 to the Barreto Boys & Girls Club, a nonprofit corporation, to help construct a new facility.
August 23, 2001
Ryan: $3.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.181 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $2.5 million to the DuPage County Board to expand and remodel the county jail administrative office.
August 23, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation to Make Purchasing New Homes Easier
CHICAGO -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed House Bill 2439, authorizing the State Treasurer to accept a reduced interest rate on state money deposited to a financial institution in exchange for the institution's agreement to grant a home loan to Illinois citizens who would otherwise not be eligible, and their guarantee to not foreclose on a home in situations where a homeowner has been temporarily laid off or is disabled.
August 22, 2001
Ryan: $140,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $140,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford Area, including $125,000 to the Village of Somonauk to install a water main extension under the BNSF railway along Route 34 to provide required fire protection for the Somonauk School. The village is contributing $194,500. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Sen. Bradley Burzynski, R-Sycamore.
August 22, 2001
Ryan: $3.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.255 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $3,000,000 to Menard County to construct a wastewater collection, pumping and treatment system for the Lake Petersburg area.
August 22, 2001
Ryan: $215,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $215,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $50,000 to the Lawrence County Fair Association to assist with handicapped accessible renovations at the fairgrounds.
August 22, 2001
Governor Announces Illinois Receives Federal Training Initiative to Improve Child Welfare Service Delivery
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Illinois has received a Federal IV-E waiver from the United States Department of Health and Human Services to launch a first-in-the-nation training initiative to improve the safety, well-being and permanency of children in foster care served by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
August 22, 2001
Ryan Signs Bill Establishing Stricter Reporting Requirements for Parolees
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed House Bill 2844 continuing his comprehensive overhaul of Illinois' parole system by establishing stricter conditions under which persons can be released from prison.
August 21, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation to Protect Animals from Abusive Conditions, Inhumane Euthanasia
CHICAGO -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 629 and House Bill 2391, marking significant reform in the way animals are treated under Illinois law.
August 21, 2001
Ryan: $12,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
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.
August 21, 2001
Ryan: $940,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $940,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $400,000 to the City of Highland Park to make street, curb, gutter, sidewalk and storm sewer line repairs in the Chantilly subdivision. The city is contributing $50,000. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Karen May, D-Highland Park.
August 21, 2001
Ryan: $75,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $75,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $20,000 to the Rodgers Park Community Council to support its Early Childhood Network of Edgewater & Rodgers Park.
August 21, 2001
Ryan: $1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.336 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $1.2 million to construct a swimming pool at Wolf Lake within the William W. Powers State Park.
August 20, 2001
Governor Announces Off-Highway Vehicle Trails Program Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced grants totaling $156,700 to develop a new off-highway vehicle recreation area in western Illinois, to enhance an existing trail riding area in central Illinois, and to fund a trail education and safety program in southern Illinois.
August 20, 2001
Ryan Awards $3.2 Million in Grants for Local Bicycle Path Projects
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today awarded $3.2 million in grants for 22 community bicycle path projects, expanding safe recreation and alternative transportation opportunities by providing an additional 56 miles of trails throughout Illinois.
August 17, 2001
Governor Ryan Authorizes Tax Deductions Contributions to the Bright Start Program
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 902 into law, giving tax breaks to individuals who make contributions to their Bright Start College Savings Program accounts.
August 17, 2001
Governor and First Lady Present "Youth Making a Difference" Awards
Presentation Made During Futures for Kids Day at State Fair
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today presented the second annual Futures for Kids "Youth Making a Difference" Awards at the Illinois Building on the State Fairgrounds. These awards honor the outstanding volunteer efforts of Illinois youth who are making a positive impact on their communities.
August 17, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Four Bills Tightening Illinois DUI Laws
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed two Senate and two House bills into law that toughen penalties for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI). The House bills are effective upon signing while the Senate bills take effect on January 1, 2002.
August 16, 2001
Governor Announces 2001 Governor's Export Award Winners
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today congratulated 12 Illinois companies, institutions and organizations that were chosen to receive the 2001 Governor's Export Awards for outstanding accomplishments in the export of Illinois goods and services around the globe.
August 16, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs "Halal Food Act"
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor Ryan today signed Senate Bill 750 creating the "Halal Food Act," providing for inspections by the Department of Agriculture to ensure that all food labeled Halal is prepared according to Islamic law.
August 16, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Legislation to Allow Tax Exemptions for Two Fraternal Organizations Headquartered in Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 15, qualifying the Moose Lodge and the Knights of Columbus to receive a property tax exemption beginning taxable year 2002.
August 16, 2001
Ryan Signs Bill to Extend Unique Flexible Approach to Environmental Measures
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 861 that will allow the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) to continue a voluntary regulatory innovation program that stresses flexibility in pursuing improved environmental protection.
August 16, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Legislation Allowing Park Districts to Give Land to the State
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan signed Senate Bill 915 today that will allow park districts to give land to the state for public use.
August 16, 2001
Governor Signs Bill Allowing School Children to Self-Administer Asthma Medications
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed SB979 amending the School Code to require a school--public or nonpublic--to permit the self-administration by a student of prescribed asthma medication. The bill requires that the parents or guardians of the student provide the school with written authorization for the self-administration and a written statement from the student's physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.
August 15, 2001
Ryan Lauds Illinois High School Seniors for Good ACT Scores
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today congratulated and commended the Illinois high school class of 2001 for its performance on the national ACT tests, results that show Illinois' commitment to improving education is paying off in the classroom.
August 15, 2001
Ryan Requests Presidential Disaster Declaration for Chicago Flood
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George Ryan today asked President Bush to consider a Presidential Disaster Declaration because of the damage caused by the flash flooding August 2 in the City of Chicago and other parts of Cook County.
August 14, 2001
Ryan: $280,000 in Illinois FIRST Funding for Adkins Ethanol Project
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $280,000 in Illinois FIRST funding to the Illinois Corn Growers Association to support the startup of a new farmer-owned ethanol production facility in Lena.
August 14, 2001
Ryan Enacts Agrifirst
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed into law a first-ever program to provide grants and technical assistance to value-added agriculture projects.
August 14, 2001
Ryan: $130,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee/ Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $130,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois river valleys, including $100,000 to the Jackson Township Highway Department to purchase three new dump trucks. The township is contributing $55,000. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Sen. Lawrence "Larry" Walsh, D-Elwood.
August 14, 2001
Ryan: $248,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $248,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Far Northwest Suburbs, including $212,000 to the City of Elgin to purchase video cameras for 61 police cars.
August 14, 2001
Ryan: $60,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $60,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the West Suburbs, including $20,000 to the Hesed House to assist in reconstructing the shower and bathroom facilities at its South River Street location in Aurora.
August 14, 2001
Ryan: $105,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $105,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $75,000 to the Carroll County Fair to make improvements to the grandstand.
August 14, 2001
Governor Signs Agreement Expanding Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Agreement
Provides more Federal Funding for Illinois River Watershed Restoration and Protection
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture expanding the state's Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) to the entire Illinois River watershed, providing for an additional 32,000 acres of land to be enrolled in the successful river basin protection and restoration initiative.
August 14, 2001
Governor Ryan to Host Airport Hearings
DES PLAINES, IL -- Governor George H. Ryan will hold four hearings on airport issues facing northeastern Illinois beginning on Thursday, August 16, 2001.
August 10, 2001
Ryan Announces Tech Town's Grand Opening
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today opened Tech Town 2001 at the Illinois State Fair highlighting how technology enhances Illinois government.
August 10, 2001
Illinois First Lady Brings Past, Present Together at State Fair
SPRINGFIELD -- Visitors to Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan's tent at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, August 10-19, will be able to personally experience the past, present and future of the state in one location.
August 10, 2001
Ryan Announces the Reading Passport Campaign for Young Readers at the 2001 State Fair
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today unveiled the "Reading: A Passport to Your Future" initiative at the 2001 Illinois State Fair. Intended for children ages 10 and under, the program shows children and families that reading can be fun and done anytime-even at the state fair.
August 10, 2001
Ryan to Honor High School Valedictorians at Illinois State Fair
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan will recognize more than 250 high school valedictorians and their families from high schools across the state. The special ceremony will begin at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow in the Director's Lawn tent at the Illinois State Fair.
August 10, 2001
Governor Announces $732.7 Million in School Construction Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $732 million in state school construction grants to 110 school districts throughout Illinois, marking the state's continued investment in providing modern and improved learning facilities for Illinois school children.
August 9, 2001
Ryan Announces State Purchase of Northwest Cook County Balefill
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC) has agreed to sell 283 acres of land known as the "Bartlett Balefill" to the state of Illinois as part of a future expansion plan for the Tri-County State Park.
August 9, 2001
Governor Acknowledges National Science Foundation Award
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today lauded the National Science Foundation's (NSF) choice of recipients for the new Distributed Terascale Facility (DTF). The NSF has awarded the DTF to the collaborative proposal lead by the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Argonne National Laboratory. Other partners in the DTF include the San Diego Supercomputer Center at the University of California and the California Institute of Technology.
August 9, 2001
Ryan Signs Scott's Law; Toughens Penalties for Reckless Driving near Emergency Vehicles
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today with Lt. Gov. Corinne Wood signed House Bill 180, also known as "Scott's Law." Named for slain Chicago Firefighter Lt. Scott Gillen, the bill raises the penalties for drivers who fail to yield to emergency vehicles or who cause accidents or injury to personnel at emergency scenes. Offenders could be fined up to $10,000 and their license suspended for up to two years if the violation results in the death of another person.
August 7, 2001
Governor Signs Legislation to Address Power Plant Air Pollution
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed bi-partisan legislation that will establish a new rule-making process aimed at reducing air pollution from Illinois' power plants. The legislation, which focuses on sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, mercury and green house gasses, is the first multi-pollutant power plant emissions strategy undertaken by a Midwestern state.
August 7, 2001
Governor Breaks Ground for New State Police Headquarters
PONTIAC, IL -- Governor George H. Ryan was joined today by State Representative Dan Rutherford, Senator John Maitland and other state and local leaders for the official groundbreaking of a new Illinois State Police District 6 headquarters at Pontiac. In addition to the new headquarters, Governor Ryan also affirmed transfer of four acres of state land to Livingston County for construction of a new county jail.
August 6, 2001
Ryan: $2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.05 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $2 million to DuPage County to expand the Judicial Office Building on North County Farm Road in Wheaton.
August 6, 2001
Ryan: $35,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $35,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $10,000 to the Johnson County Ambulance Service to purchase a defibrillator. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by House Republican Leader Lee A. Daniels, Elmhurst.
August 6, 2001
Ryan: $239,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee/ Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- - Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $239,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois river valleys, including $75,000 to the Rockdale Fire Protection District to purchase the Rockdale Municipal Building, its current home. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Jack D. McGuire, D-Joliet.
August 6, 2001
Ryan: $524,499 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $524,499 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $250,000 to the City of Evanston to redevelop the fire station and police headquarters into a new public safety building.
August 6, 2001
Ryan: $292,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $292,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $58,500 to the Park District of Forest Park to repair the roof of its Administration building, remodel its registration office, rehab a traveling stage and to purchase a van and sport and recreation equipment. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. James B. Durkin, R-Westchester.
August 6, 2001
Ryan: $2.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,191,075 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $1.5 million to the City of Galena to construct a new wastewater treatment and conveyance system.
August 6, 2001
Ryan Signs Kelley's Law; Toughens Penalties for Ecstasy and other Drugs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed into law HB 126, also known as Kelley's Law. Kelley's Law strengthens penalties for selling ecstasy and other so called "club-drugs" and expands the offenses of drug-induced homicide and drug-induced infliction of great bodily harm to include the unlawful delivery of any controlled substances.
August 6, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation to Add Highway Maintenance Workers to the State's Alternative Pension Formula
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed House Bill 267, adding highway maintainers to the list of employees who qualify for the state's alternative retirement formula.
August 6, 2001
Governor Declares City of Chicago and Cook County Disaster Areas
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today declared the City of Chicago and Cook County disaster areas after a flash flood hit the metropolitan area last Thursday. A severe storm system accompanied by heavy rainfall moved through the city and county on August 2, causing flash flooding, which resulted in water in basements, damage to homes and a disruption of commerce.
August 3, 2001
Ryan: $987,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $987,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $500,000 to Granite City to purchase a weather warning system, a truck and end loader for its sanitation and street departments, safety equipment, cars and technology equipment for the Police, replace the driveway to Fire Station One and to make drainage improvements to Dobrey Slough. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Thomas Holbrook, D-Belleville.
August 3, 2001
Ryan: $3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.064 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $750,000 to the City of Blue Island to remove and replace existing sidewalks and to construct new sidewalks where none exist within the 3rd ward of the city. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by Senate Democrat Leader Emil Jones, Jr., D-Chicago.
August 3, 2001
Ryan: $1.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.5 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Far Northwest Suburbs, including $750,000 to the City of McHenry to make improvements to Illinois Route 31 and McCullom Lake Road.
August 3, 2001
Ryan: $1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,234,468 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $1 million to Bradley University to upgrade technology at both the Cullom-Davis Library and the Olin Hall of Science.
August 3, 2001
First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan Accepts Donation of Desk, Chair
SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted the donation of an original desk from the Old State Capitol that was possibly used by Abraham Lincoln when he served there as a state legislator, as well as an original chair from a Springfield drug store Lincoln frequented. Both were donated by William Hughes Diller Jr. Plans call for the desk to be displayed at the Old State Capitol.
August 3, 2001
Governor Signs Bill Creating High Technology School-to-Work Program
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed into law Senate Bill 845, the High Technology School-to-Work Act. The goal of the new initiative is to increase the number of students who choose to enter occupations requiring advanced skills in the areas of science, mathematics and advanced technology.
August 3, 2001
Ryan Grants Licensure to 77 Students of the Master's of Social Work Program at Governor's State University
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 1152, allowing the 77 students who graduated from the Master's of Social Work program at Governor's State University (GSU) to receive a license for employment in Illinois from the Department of Professional Regulation, as long as specific conditions are met.
August 2, 2001
Governor Signs McCormick Place Expansion Bill
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today authorized financing for an $800 million expansion of McCormick Place by signing House Bill 263.
August 2, 2001
Ryan Announces Further Evidence Calling for Annual Testing for Students
CHICAGO -- Governor George Ryan said today that 2000 mathematics data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress demonstrate the need for a national standard for annual testing to determine student progress.
August 2, 2001
Financing Completed for Decatur Memorial Hospital
SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois Health Facilities Authority issued $32.8 million in fixed-rate bonds for the benefit of Decatur Memorial Hospital. The bonds were rated "A+" by Fitch IBCA, Inc. and "A" by Standard & Poor's Rating Services, based on the credit of the Hospital.
August 2, 2001
Ryan Signs Tree Trimming Bill
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed House Bill 1776, encouraging cooperation between utility companies and homeowners when it comes to vegetation management issues.
August 2, 2001
Drummer Silty Clay Loam Designated Illinois State Soil
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed legislation naming Drummer Silty Clay Loam the official state soil of Illinois.
August 2, 2001
Ryan Unveils New Online Gallery so Visitors Can Watch the Illinois State Fair Come to Life
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan unveiled a new online gallery today on the State of Illinois homepage. The new gallery provides over 260 pictures highlighting Illinois historic sites, natural wonders, Abraham Lincoln, wildlife, technology, people and culture.
August 2, 2001
Tech Town Offers Interactive Experience
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan once again invites fairgoers to visit Tech Town at the Illinois State Fair. Tech Town provides a unique opportunity for visitors to see and interact with the latest technology throughout Illinois. Two dozen exhibits inside the "townscape" layout will offer a taste of the technology used by state government to deliver services, educate children and advance research.
August 1, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation to Deal with Cyberstalking
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan signed Senate Bill 233 today, which creates the criminal offense of cyberstalking. Cyberstalking is defined as using electronic communication to transmit a threat of bodily harm, sexual assault, confinement or restraint to a person or place a person or their family member in reasonable apprehension of harm, sexual assault, confinement or restraint on at least two occasions.
August 1, 2001
Ryan Voices Opposition to House Resolution 2107 in Address to House Subcommittee
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Governor George H. Ryan today urged the House Aviation Subcommittee to reject House Resolution 2107 that would strip Illinois and 25 other states of their current statutory authority over the development of public airports.
August 1, 2001
Governor Signs Corporate Headquarters Relocation Act
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed the Corporate Headquarters Relocation Act, which offers targeted incentives to large companies that relocate their corporate headquarters to Illinois. The legislation was instrumental in helping attract the Boeing Company to Illinois earlier this year.
July 31, 2001
Illinois State Fair Parade Marshal Named
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today named butter cow sculptor Norma "Duffy" Lyon the Grand Marshal of the Illinois State Fair Twilight Parade.
July 30, 2001
Illinois Receives Nearly $1 Million to Help Integrate Criminal Justice Information Systems
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced that Illinois has been awarded a federal grant of nearly $1 million to implement a plan for integrating criminal justice computer systems so state and local agencies can more easily share relevant information.
July 30, 2001
Governor Announces Increase in Number of Disabled Persons Finding Jobs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) released information detailing record-breaking success in placing people with disabilities into competitive employment for fiscal year 2001. According to DHS' Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS), an all-time high of 6,757 people with disabilities entered into competitive employment during fiscal year 2001. In fiscal year 2000, DHS/ORS placed 5,414 people with disabilities into competitive employment, a 25% increase.
July 27, 2001
Ryan Signs Bill to Address Teacher Shortage
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 1293, addressing a statewide teacher shortage by temporarily increasing the amount of time a substitute may spend teaching in a single school district.
July 27, 2001
Ryan Adds Aggravated Arson to Truth-in-Sentencing Law
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan signed House Bill 427 into law today, adding aggravated arson to the list of offenses covered by the state's Truth-in-Sentencing law. The new law will almost double the average amount of time an offender spends in prison.
July 27, 2001
Governor Announces Community Development Grant Winners
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced $1,250,000 in grants to 33 villages, cities, townships and counties. The grants are through a pair of initiatives funded by the Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP) for water and sewer planning projects, and the removal of architectural barriers to provide access for people with disabilities.
July 27, 2001
Grants Awarded to Counties for Landfill Inspection and Illegal Dumping Investigations
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced that 16 Illinois counties have been awarded Solid Waste Enforcement Grants by the Illinois EPA to enable them to conduct inspections of landfills, compost sites and transfer stations and for investigations and enforcement activities at solid waste disposal sites and illegal dumps.
July 27, 2001
State Assistance Allows the City of Hoopeston to Retain Jobs at Food Warehouse
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that the City of Hoopeston will receive a $500,000 grant for improvements at the municipally owned sewage treatment plant that will also benefit a local company, Hoopeston Foods, Inc. The loan will upgrade the city's existing sewage treatment lagoons to bring them into compliance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and accommodate the future growth needs of Hoopeston Foods.
July 27, 2001
$3.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.29 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $2.4 million to Blackburn College to construct a new "student services center" on its campus in Carlinville.
July 27, 2001
$160,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $160,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $100,000 to the Village of Green Oaks to construct a 12-foot wide acceleration lane with a shoulder on eastbound Illinois Route 176 east of Ashford Drive. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Susan Garrett, D-Lake Forest.
July 27, 2001
$210,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $210,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford Area, including $200,000 to the Village of Stillman Valley to drill and construct test wells in order to find a viable water source to increase the quantity and improve the quality for the community. This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Sen. Bradley Burzynski, R-Sycamore.
July 27, 2001
$60,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $60,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the West Suburbs, including $50,000 to Family Counseling Services of Aurora to help with the cost of purchasing a building at 70 South River Street. The organization is contributing $300,000. This Illinois FIRST was initiated by State Sen. Ed Petka, R-Plainfield.
July 26, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation Strengthening the Childhood Passenger Protection Act - Governor joins Ford Motor Company in the Boost America! campaign
CHICAGO -- Governor Ryan today signed Senate Bill 98 that requires drivers to have all passengers under 16 (currently 6) in seat belts or restraint systems and Senate Bill 403 that increases the maximum fine for a violation of the Child Passenger Protection Act to $50.
July 26, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation to Honor Peoria Couple with Park in Their Name
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan signed SB12 today that will rename Wildlife Prairie Park the Bill and Hazel Rutherford Wildlife Prairie State Park, in honor of the couple who deeded the park and education facility to the state last fall.
July 25, 2001
Ryan Signs Bill Expanding Access to Health Insurance Coverage
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed into law legislation that will help expand the number of people who can get health insurance when they lose their job.
July 25, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation Allowing for Hands-Free Cellular Phone Use in Motor Vehicles
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed House Bill 10, making it legal for drivers to use earpieces and single-sided headsets in conjunction with their cell or mobile phones while driving.
July 25, 2001
Governor Signs Bill Amending Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed SB114 amending the Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act, requiring hospitals to develop a strategy for treating rape victims, including distributing information about emergency contraception to prevent a pregnancy resulting from the assault. The bill also requires the Department of Public Health to set the minimum acceptable protocol standards.
July 24, 2001
Ryan Signs Heather's Law
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed legislation into law to prevent minors from being issued a driver's license or renewing an instructional permit while criminal charges are pending against them. House Bill 2161, known as "Heather's Law," was passed in response to the tragic death of a Springfield teen last summer who was killed in a one-car accident with an unlicensed, teen-aged driver who, after the accident, still received his driver's license.
July 24, 2001
Governor Signs Law to Eliminate MTBE
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed the MTBE Elimination Act, legislation that will protect Illinois' groundwater and provide a financial boost to the state's farmers.
July 23, 2001
Governor Signs Bill Assisting Seniors in Circuit Breaker Program
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed HB 2438 making significant administrative changes intended to simplify the State's Pharmaceutical Assistance program, also known as the Circuit Breaker Program.
July 23, 2001
Ryan Announces Brownfields Redevelopment Grant for City of East Peoria
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the City of East Peoria has been awarded a Brownfields Redevelopment Grant by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency in the amount of $120,000.
July 23, 2001
Ryan Announces Funding to Two Groups for Water Quality Planning in 16 Counties
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced approval of funding to planning commissions in northeastern and southern Illinois for water quality management activities.
July 20, 2001
Ryan Signs SB 816 Increasing Efforts to Prevent Unnecessary Institutionalization of Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 816, creating the Prevention of Unnecessary Institutionalization Act as a critical piece of legislation to assist individuals with disabilities and those over the age of 60 to remain in their homes. SB 816 is related to the Olmstead Decision. The Olmstead Decision of the United States Supreme Court, provides that individuals with disabilities should be able to live in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs, taking into account the resources available to the state and the needs of others with disabilities.
July 20, 2001
Illinois Voices Priorities for New Federal Farm Bill
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today released the final report of the Illinois Farm Bill Task Force, which outlines state priorities for new federal farm legislation.
July 19, 2001
New Manufacturing Facility Coming to Paris, Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that North American Lighting, Inc. (NAL), which is headquartered in Flora, will construct a new manufacturing plant in Paris. The 150,000 square foot facility, when completed, will employ close to three hundred people. The company, which also maintains a manufacturing site in Salem, had considered building the plant in Indiana.
July 18, 2001
Ryan Signs Legislation to Protect Children and Elderly Adults
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed legislation that extends the reach of court-ordered protection for children and allows incapacitated seniors to provide court testimony in cases of abuse.
July 18, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Legislation to Improve Health Care Services
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed legislation aimed at improving the delivery of health care services in medically underserved areas of the state.
July 17, 2001
Governor Ryan Helps Communities Reduce Youth Access to Tobacco
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that for the second year the Illinois Liquor Control Commission is awarding $1 million in grants to 165 Illinois communities to implement the "Kids Can't Buy 'Em Here" Tobacco Enforcement Program to reduce youth access to tobacco products.
July 17, 2001
Ryan Announces Rural Hospital Telemedicine Grants
SPRINGFIELD, IL -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the awarding of $450,000 in grants to 10 small Illinois rural hospitals to improve access to health care for underserved populations through the use of a high-speed, high-capacity telemedicine network.
July 17, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces New Director of Washington Office
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced Winifred A. Pizzano has been appointed the new Director of the Washington, D.C. office for the State of Illinois. She currently serves as a senior assistant to the governor in the Washington Office representing Illinois to the executive and legislative branches, especially in health and human services.
July 17, 2001
$1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,031,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $300,000 to the National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum to make improvements to art class rooms, the gallery space, the museum store and the roof. The organization also will upgrade the alarm system and purchase equipment and supplies.
July 17, 2001
$3.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.191 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $1.5 million to the City Colleges of Chicago to make technological improvements on all campuses.
July 17, 2001
$1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.37 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $375,000 to the Little Village Community Development Corporation to support community development programs within the Little Village community.
July 17, 2001
$502,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $502,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $75,000 to the City of Nashville to install a right hand turn lane and a center turn lane at the intersections of Mockingbird Road and Enterprise Avenue and to install a traffic signal at Enterprise Avenue.
July 13, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Nursing Mothers Bill
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 542, creating the Nursing Mothers in the Workplace Act. The legislation requires an employer to provide reasonable unpaid break time each day to an employee who needs to express breast milk for her infant child, unless it would unduly disrupt the employer's operation.
July 13, 2001
Ryan: $164,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $164,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $105,000 to the Village of Tilton to purchase a new ambulance.
July 12, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Zero Tolerance Drug Law for Corrections, State Police Officers
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 1032 making zero tolerance of drug abuse by State Police and Corrections Officers the law in Illinois. Senate Bill 1032 makes the current policy and procedures of the Illinois State Police and Illinois Department of Corrections law, and ensures zero tolerance of drug abuse remains the official policy of Illinois for public safety employees in the future.
July 10, 2001
Ryan Announces Illinois FIRST Grant to Lincoln Trail College
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $150,000 Illinois FIRST grant to Lincoln Trail College. The Illinois FIRST grant will be used for the Lincoln Trail College e-Commerce Incubator.
July 10, 2001
O'Hare Area Lawmakers Briefed On City's O'Hare Plan - Governor asks IDOT to continue analysis
CHICAGO -- Gov. George H. Ryan hosted O'Hare area state lawmakers for an IDOT briefing on Mayor Daley's proposed runway expansion plan for O'Hare International Airport. The Governor instructed IDOT to continue working with the City to get more information on key areas including financing, construction phasing, noise impacts and delay reduction.
July 10, 2001
Governor Announces Park Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced grants to three local governments to develop parks in their local communities.
July 10, 2001
Governor Ryan Appoints New Director of Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
SPRINGFIELD - Governor George H. Ryan today appointed Renee Cipriano as the new director of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). Since 1999, Cipriano has served as the Governor's Senior Advisor for Environment and Natural Resources.
July 10, 2001
Ryan: $512,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $492,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $200,000 to the City of Savanna for improvements to the intersection at the junction of Routes 64 and 84.
July 10, 2001
Ryan: $210,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $210,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys, including $100,000 to the Lockport Township Park District to renovate the playgrounds at Arrowhead Park, Milne Grove School and Collegeview Park.
July 10, 2001
Ryan: $1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,201,400 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $650,000 to Antioch Township to construct a new building to house a senior center, township offices and the school district administrative center. The township is contributing $2,145,044.
July 10, 2001
Ryan: $590,150 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $620,150 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $50,000 to the Village of Richton Park to make improvements to its community pool.
July 10, 2001
Ryan: $285,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $285,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford area, including $150,000 to the Village of Somonauk to install a new water main for a new addition at the Middle School. The village is contributing $173,550.
July 9, 2001
Governor Presents Law Enforcement Medal of Honor to Sixteen Officers
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today presented sixteen law enforcement officers from around Illinois with the Law Enforcement Medal of Honor at a ceremony held at the Executive Mansion. The annual awards, created by state statute, honor law enforcement officers "who have distinguished themselves by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives above and beyond the call of duty."
July 9, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Adult Education Bill
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 914 creating the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) Adult Education Fund for adult education programs and literacy initiatives.
July 5, 2001
Governor Announces Grant For Coal Research And Development
CARBONDALE -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Dr. Sanjeev Kumar of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC) has been awarded $151,828 for a coal research and development project that is benefiting Marion Hospital. The project incorporates the use of coal bottom ash, a coal combustion by-product, in concrete support piles for the hospital's new Medical Office Building and Power House.
July 3, 2001
Open Land Trust to Buy Much-Needed Waterfowl Refuge, Recreational Land in Fulton County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the state has acquired 1,960 acres of land in Fulton County through the Open Land Trust Program that will provide a much needed waterfowl refuge and public recreation land in Fulton County.
July 3, 2001
Ryan: $165,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Western Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $165,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Western Illinois, including $100,000 to the Mid-American Intermodal Authority Port District to study the needs and potential for a new public inland intermodal transport terminal encompassing rail, highway, river and air services in Illinois, Iowa and Missouri.
July 3, 2001
Ryan: $134,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $134,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $55,000 to the Des Plaines Community Senior Center to purchase a 22-seat bus to transport seniors to and from the senior center, the downtown area, condominiums and nursing and retirement homes. The center is contributing $82,890.
July 3, 2001
Ryan: $165,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $165,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $100,000 to the Henry County Emergency Services Association to construct an emergency services center on East Wolf Road in Colona.
July 3, 2001
Ryan: $1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,292,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $500,000 to the Village of Oak Brook to purchase and install a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system in its new addition to the village hall.
July 3, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Women's Health Initiatives Into Law - Lt. Governor Wood Says New Laws Will Help Women Battling Cancer
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed into law two bills that will provide Illinois women with much needed help in their battles against breast and cervical cancers. House Bill 25 provides for Medicaid coverage to treat women with breast and cervical cancer and Senate Bill 866 requires coverage for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.
July 2, 2001
500 New Illinois Jobs Created by Abbott Laboratories Expansion in Lake County
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today commended Abbott Laboratories for expanding its presence in Lake County as the result of the company's acquisition of BASF's pharmaceutical business, which included the operations of Knoll Pharmaceutical.
July 2, 2001
Public/Private Partnership Helps North Shore Gas Customers Pay Delinquent Heating Bills
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $200,000 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant to assist low-income North Shore Gas customers in paying delinquent utility bills resulting from last winter's high wholesale natural gas costs.
July 2, 2001
Public/Private Partnership Helps Peoples Energy Customers Pay Delinquent Heating Bills
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today said the state will provide Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grants totaling $4 million to assist low-income Peoples Energy customers in paying delinquent utility bills resulting from last winter's high wholesale natural gas costs.
July 2, 2001
State Supports Program to Help Low-Income Consumer Pay Overdue Heating Bills
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the state will provide a $460,000 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant to establish a new program providing low-income Nicor Gas customers with an opportunity to satisfy delinquent utility bills resulting from last winter's high energy charges.
July 2, 2001
Governor Announces Support for Program to Help Consumers Pay Overdue Heating Bills
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $252,000 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant to help fund a program designed to give participants the opportunity to repay delinquent utility bills resulting from last winter's high heating costs.
July 1, 2001
Governor and Mrs. Ryan Announce New Statewide Youth Drug Prevention Campaign
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced the State of Illinois' Futures for Kids program is developing "Be Real", an innovative, MTV-style youth alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention initiative. Be Real uses a variety of cutting-edge education, marketing and media tactics to target an age group usually ignored by traditional drug prevention campaigns - 10 to 14 year olds.
June 29, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Postsecondary Legislation
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan signed legislation today which could help nearly 67,000 Illinois low-income students qualify for financial aid to pay for post-secondary education or training.
June 29, 2001
Gov. Ryan Appoints Top Business Executives to Gaming Board - Other Boards and Commission Appointments Also Announced
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today appointed Chicago area real estate developer Elzie L. Higginbottom and entrepreneur and former Dominick's Finer Foods CEO, Robert A. Mariano to the Illinois Gaming Board.
June 29, 2001
Statement from Gov. Ryan's Office
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan says his staff will be receiving a briefing from City Hall officials on Mayor Daley's O'Hare plan and spend the next several days analyzing it. The Governor also says he will also plan a public hearing process to gauge public response to the proposal.
June 28, 2001
Illinois Schools Get $34.5 Million Federal Reading Grant
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that 17 of Illinois' school districts with high numbers of children living in poverty have been awarded a total of $34.5 million in federal funds to help improve reading programs for their students.
June 28, 2001
Governor Ryan Signs Telecommunications Rewrite Bill - Announces "Eliminate the Digital Divide" Grants to Community Technology Centers
CHICAGO -- Declaring it one of the most pro-consumer, pro-competition bills ever enacted, Governor George H. Ryan today signed into law House Bill 2900, the re-write of the Telecommunications Article of the Public Utilities Act at a bill signing ceremony in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood.
June 28, 2001
Ryan: $780,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $780,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Suburban Cook County, including $250,000 to Dominican University to renovate its Rebecca Crown Library. This library is one of the only two American Library Association accredited Library and Information Science programs in Illinois.
June 28, 2001
Ryan: $5.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $5.54 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Far Northwest Suburbs, including $5,000,000 to the Fox River Water Reclamation District to construct gravity sewers, force mains and pumping stations for wastewater systems and improvements to potable water treatment and distribution facilities.
June 28, 2001
Ryan: $645,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $645,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $200,000 to the City of Auburn to construct a new building to house a library and a senior citizen center.
June 28, 2001
Ryan: $625,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $625,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $400,000 for Roosevelt University to support its welfare-to-work program, "Learning for Earning," which focuses on encouraging work through vocational and occupational training, remediation, on-the-job training, motivational sessions, mentoring, case management, job placement and retention.
June 28, 2001
Ryan: $1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago to construct a new facility at 67th and Cicero.
June 27, 2001
Gov. Ryan, U.S. Senators Durbin and Fitzgerald and Congressmen LaHood and Phelps Seek Meeting With Firestone CEO - Seek to Reverse Decision to Close Decatur Plant
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. Ryan today announced he will be joining with U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Sen. Peter Fitzgerald (R-IL), U.S. Rep. Ray LaHood (R-IL) and U.S. Rep. David Phelps (D-IL) in sending a letter to Bridgestone/ Firestone Chairman and CEO John Lampe regarding today's announcement that the company will close its Decatur plant.
June 27, 2001
Gov. Ryan Appoints Sen. Robert Madigan to Industrial Commission
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today appointed Sen. Robert A. Madigan, R-Lincoln to the Illinois Industrial Commission.
June 26, 2001
Ryan: $875,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $875,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to Children's Memorial Hospital to support its Center for Childhood Safety.
June 26, 2001
Ryan: $193,100 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $193,100 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois including $150,000 to the Carbondale Business Development Corporation to conduct a feasibility study to demonstrate that Carbondale is a proper location for the business expansion of Pharmacology and Toxicology Research Laboratory East, Inc.
June 26, 2001
Ryan: $1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.3 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois including $1,000,000 to the Meeting of the Rivers Foundation to design, fabricate, install and maintain exhibits at the Great Rivers Museum.
June 26, 2001
Governor Announces Home Town Awards Winners; Praises Illinois Volunteers
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today congratulated winners of the 20th annual Governor's Home Town Awards and praised their commitment to bettering their communities through volunteerism.
June 22, 2001
Governor Signs $3.5 Billion Coal Incentive Legislation
VIRDEN/PINCKNEYVILLE -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed bi-partisan legislation that will help revive the Illinois coal industry and strengthen the state's ability to provide electricity to consumers. The legislation, which provides up to $3.5 billion in financing incentives, is the most comprehensive energy package in the country and the most sweeping in Illinois history.
June 20, 2001
Governor Announces Plans for 2001 Illinois Ag Assembly
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan is inviting Illinois agriculture producers and other stakeholders in the state's food and fiber industry to attend one of six regional meetings as part of the 2001 Ag Assembly to continue developing the relationship between local communities and state government.
June 20, 2001
Ryan: $578,850 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $578,850 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $200,000 to the Bureau County Agricultural Board to construct a new building on the Bureau County Fairgrounds.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $637,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $637,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $200,000 to Carl Sandburg College to purchase equipment for its dental hygiene program. The equipment will include dental chairs, delivery mechanisms, dental operatory lights, operator and assistant stools, mobile cabinetry units and an autoclave. The district is contributing $1,755,559.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $290,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $290,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford area, including $100,000 to the Shabbona Community Fire Protection District to purchase a new fire truck. The district is contributing $60,000.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $490,000 in Illinois FIRST for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $490,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the West Suburbs, including $250,000 to the Lockport School District 91 to replace the roof on the gymnasium and pod sections at Kelvin Grove School.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $127,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $127,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $100,000 to the City of Dixon to construct streets, water mains and new sanitary sewer lines within the Lee County Industrial Development Association Industrial Park. Lee County is contributing $46,000.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $437,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $437,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois river valleys, including $152,000 to the Village of Braidwood to resurface the parking lanes on Illinois Route 113 from Illinois 129 to Center Street.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $145,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $145,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $55,000 to the City of Altamont to relocate and install a new storm sewer and to rework an existing city parking lot for the construction of a new Dollar General store. The city is contributing $20,000.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $677,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $677,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $100,000 to Cabrini Green Youth and Family Services to provide community programs and to hire parents and students to assist with duties within the agency.
June 19, 2001
Ryan: $758,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $758,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $600,000 to the Illinois Department of Agriculture to construct a cover over the warm up ring immediately south of the coliseum on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
June 18, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Expansion of Circuit Breaker Program
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced that effective July 1, osteoporosis will be added to the list of diseases covered by Illinois' Pharmaceutical Assistance Program.
June 18, 2001
Governor Ryan, Great Lakes Governors and Premiers Sign Charter Annex 2001
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan, along with other Great Lakes Governors and the Premiers of Ontario and Quebec, today signed an agreement governing Great Lakes water use, calling it an important step forward to protect the Great Lakes.
June 12, 2001
Governor Ryan Praises Inclusion of Ethanol in Federal Clean Air Program; Says Illinois is Capable of Meeting Increased Demand for Clean-Burning Fuel Additives
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan hails the Bush administration's decision to maintain the oxygenate requirement in the federal Clean Air Act as an environmentally- and financially-sound ruling that will reduce air pollution and raise farm income.
June 12, 2001
First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan Accepts Check from "Pennies For Lincoln" Campaign from Illinois School Children
SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a check for $47,026.30 representing the funds collected during the "Pennies For Lincoln" campaign. More than 100 school children from the Springfield area dressed in Lincoln replica clothing made the check presentation from the campaign, which was developed to create grassroots support for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and to teach children about President Lincoln.
June 12, 2001
Universal Pre-School Task Force Holds First Meeting
SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today welcomed the members of the Universal Pre-Kindergarten Task Force to the Executive Mansion for their first meeting.
June 11, 2001
Gov. Ryan Signs 2002 Budget, Record Funding for Schools, Programs for Families, Communities - Healthy End of Year Balance
ROCKFORD -- The Governor signed one of the five bills for the 2002 state budget at the Ellis Arts Academy in Rockford, the last of three bill-signing stops in Illinois communities.
June 11, 2001
Gov. Ryan Signs 2002 Budget, Record Funding for Schools, Programs for Families, Communities - Healthy End of Year Balance
Gov. Ryan Signs 2002 Budget, Record Funding for Schools, Programs for Families, Communities - Healthy End of Year Balance
June 11, 2001
Gov. Ryan Signs 2002 Budget, Record Funding for Schools, Programs for Families, Communities - Healthy End of Year Balance
CHICAGO -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed into law the $53 billion budget that continues his unprecedented commitment to children; plans for a healthy end of year balance; and addresses the state's important social service and infrastructure needs.
June 8, 2001
$288,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $288,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $130,000 to the Village of Mt. Prospect for streetscape improvements on US 14 from Illinois Route 83 to Emmerson Lane.
June 8, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.255 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Suburban Cook County, including $500,000 to the Westside Health Authority to construct the Austin Community Wellness and Educational Center, a new human services building.
June 8, 2001
$534,499 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $534,499 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $115,000 to the Union County Emergency Services & Disaster Agency to construct a new building and to purchase a rescue truck for use in extrication operations.
June 8, 2001
$281,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $281,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $101,000 to the Madison County Fair Association to construct a new cattle building. The existing cattle barn, which is too costly to be repaired, will be demolished and a new building with wider aisles and better space use for exhibitors will be constructed. The improved accessibility and safety of the new building will benefit thousands of exhibitors and visitors to the fairgrounds.
June 8, 2001
$653,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $653,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Far Northwest Suburbs, including $103,000 to the Fox River Valley Center for Independent Living to establish a satellite office in Aurora.
June 8, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,267,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $300,000 to the Village of Winthrop Harbor to make storm sewer improvements and drainage corrections at its municipal park.
June 8, 2001
$809,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $809,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to Best Buddies Illinois to create a statewide presence.
June 7, 2001
Governor and First Lady Honor Winners of Family Investment Awards
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today awarded the 2nd Annual Governor's Family Investment Awards to nine companies representing the best in family-friendly policies. At a ceremony held at the James R. Thompson Center, Governor and Mrs. Ryan recognized representatives from large and small businesses throughout the state for their business practices that support women and their families.
June 6, 2001
Governor and First Lady Award Grant Money to Benefit Child Care Providers - Focus on low income areas of Chicago
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced that a $380,000 grant is being awarded to the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC) in Chicago. The WBDC will use the funds to establish a Child Care Revolving Loan Fund to provide financial assistance to child care providers who need capital for start up or expansion. The assistance will be targeted to low income areas of Chicago.
June 5, 2001
Governor Ryan Pledges to Find Funding Solution for Retired Teachers' Insurance
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced his commitment to finding a long-term funding solution for the state's Teachers' Retirement Insurance Program. Meanwhile, in an effort to provide some relief for retired teachers hit by skyrocketing premiums, the Governor announced he is cutting in half the proposed premium increase Illinois Retired Teachers were scheduled to pay beginning July 1, 2001.
May 31, 2001
Governor Ryan Commends General Assembly for Passing Balanced State Budget
$50 billion budget commits new money to education, $1.2 billion end of year balance. Consumer protections, economic development packages also pass
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today congratulated the Illinois General Assembly for passing a fiscally sound, $53 billion budget that continues the Governor's unprecedented commitment of 51 percent of new revenue to education; plans for an end of year balance of more than $1.4 billion; and addresses the state's important social service and infrastructure needs.
May 30, 2001
Governor Announces $3.5 Billion Coal Program --Program will increase state's energy supply and create new jobs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a historic agreement with legislative leaders on a $3.5 billion package designed to reinvigorate the Illinois coal industry and to strengthen the state's ability to provide electricity to its citizens.
May 25, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,222,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $200,000 to the Chicago Park District to replace 221 windows at the fieldhouse in Hamilton Park.
May 25, 2001
$2.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,573,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the South Suburbs, including $750,000 to the Village of Justice to construct a new public works facility.
May 25, 2001
$240,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Western Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $240,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Western Illinois, including $100,000 to the Adams County Mental Health & Retardation Association in Quincy to construct a new facility.
May 25, 2001
$901,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $901,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $400,000 to the Village of Bolingbrook to widen Boughton Road from Falconridge Way to Ashbury Avenue. One lane will be added to an existing four lane highway, eliminating backups and dangerous left turns. The village is contributing $272,000.
May 24, 2001
Gov. Ryan Urges U.S. Senate to Pass Bush Education Plan
Governor will focus push for accountability on Capitol Hill
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today applauded the U.S. House for approving President Bush's Education Reform Agenda, which will create greater accountability in the nation's schools by requiring annual testing. The Governor urged its swift passage in the United States Senate and said he will focus his lobbying efforts to supporting the President's more sweeping plan in Congress rather than in Springfield.
May 15, 2001
$365,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $365,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $125,000 to the Village of Jewett to make improvements to its water treatment plant.
May 15, 2001
$1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,390,444 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $814,444 to the West Central Illinois Educational Telecommunications Corporation to convert WMEC (Macomb), WQEC (Quincy), and WSEC (Jacksonville-Springfield) broadcast facilities from an analog system to a digital system.
May 15, 2001
$730,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $730,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $100,000 to the Warren County Sheriff's Department to purchase a four-wheel drive truck and safety equipment.
May 15, 2001
$482,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $482,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $100,000 to Sterling Township to construct a sanitary sewer collection system for the Steelton and Grimes subdivisions.
May 15, 2001
$235,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Western Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $235,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Western Illinois, including $75,000 to the Women's Crisis Center in Jacksonville for electrical work and to purchase an automatic fire suppression system at its new facility.
May 15, 2001
$455,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $455,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Kankakee and the Illinois River Valleys, including $150,000 to the Gardner Fire Department to remodel and expand its fire station.
May 14, 2001
Governor Names New DHS Associate Secretary
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today named Ms. Carolyn Cochran Kopel as the Associate Secretary for the Department of Human Services (DHS).
May 14, 2001
Illinois Awarded Grant for Strengthening Education Leadership
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Illinois has been awarded a $50,000 planning grant leading to a $250,000 implementation grant by the new State Action for Education Leadership Project (SAELP), National Consortium to develop and enact innovative policies and practices to strengthen school leadership. Illinois was one of 15 states to receive the grant.
May 11, 2001
Governor Ryan Commends Business and Labor Leaders for Coming Together to Discuss the Unemployment Insurance Fund
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan commends business and labor leaders for coming together twice during the last week and discussing their positions on possible reforms to the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund financed through state payroll taxes.
May 10, 2001
Ryan, Durbin Set Southern Illinois Roundtable on Coal, Energy Issues
CARBONDALE -- Governor George H. Ryan and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin will assemble state and federal leaders in the coal, energy and related industries next week to discuss a wide range of issues related to the revival of Illinois coal.
May 10, 2001
Governor Ryan, Mayor Daley Welcome Boeing's Global Headquarters to Chicago
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan and Mayor Richard M. Daley welcomed Boeing Chairman and CEO Phil Condit's announcement that it will move its global headquarters to 100 N. Riverside Plaza, Chicago.
May 10, 2001
Governor Recognizes Corrections Officer Of The Year
Memorial dedicated to deceased corrections officers
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today recognized Correctional Officer Felicia Austin (Danville), who was named Corrections Officer of the Year. The recognition comes during Correctional Officer Week in Illinois--May 6 through May 10.
May 10, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Federal Disaster Assistance is Coming for Ten Counties Affected by Mississippi River Flooding
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that President Bush approved his request to declare 10 counties as federal disaster areas because of near-record flooding along the Mississippi River. The federal declaration includes Adams, Calhoun, Carroll, Jo Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, Mercer, Pike, Rock Island and Whiteside counties.
May 10, 2001
$892,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $892,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $215,000 to the Village of Lake Bluff to make intersection improvements at Routes 131 and 176.
May 10, 2001
$1.9 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,940,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the south suburbs, including $300,000 to St. Coletta's of Illinois to purchase an elevator, a fire sprinkler system, a handicap accessible van and video conference equipment for its new vocational program center.
May 8, 2001
John Deere Foundation Donates $1 Million to Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today accepted a $1million donation from the John Deere Foundation to support the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
May 8, 2001
Governor Ryan Promotes Tourism Week
Highlights local marketing grants, a tourism private sector grant and Made in Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today marked "Tourism Week" by continuing to promote tourism, an essential component of our economy, by announcing more than $640,000 in grants and promoting First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan's Made in Illinois catalogue.
May 8, 2001
$5,527,200 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Western Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $5,527,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Western Suburbs, including $5,000,000 to the Fox River Water Reclamation District for the construction of gravity sewers, force mains and pumping stations for wastewater conveyance and improvements to potable water treatment and distribution facilities.
May 8, 2001
$173,675 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $173,675 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford area, including $70,000 to the Rockford Park District Foundation to fund a major statewide memorial to Gold Star Mothers. The memorial will be constructed in the Arthur W. Anderson Peace Park in Loves Park.
May 8, 2001
$1.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.145 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $375,000 to the City of Olney to construct a new fire station at North Walnut Street.
May 8, 2001
$5.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $5.5 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $4 million to Kennedy King College to purchase land for its new campus.
May 7, 2001
Ryan Awards $4.2 Million in Tech Challenge Grants
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today awarded $4,248,492 in state Technology Challenge Grants to eighteen businesses, universities and research centers that are on the cutting edge of 21st Century technology.
May 7, 2001
State Assistance Facilitates Construction of New Lynwood Sports and Expo Center
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Village of Lynwood will receive state assistance to facilitate construction of a new $4.8 million sports and exposition center.
May 7, 2001
Governor Recognizes National Small Business Week
SPRINGFIELD -- In recognition of National Small Business Week, Governor George H. Ryan today renewed his commitment to Illinois' small business owners and their employees.
May 7, 2001
State to Help Danville Firm Expand Waste Treatment Facilities
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today said the state will assist CCL Custom Manufacturing to expand its on-site waste pre-treatment facility, enabling the company to retain jobs and meet its long-term capacity needs in Danville.
May 4, 2001
Ryan Announces Two Grants for Fox River, Upper Des Plaines Watersheds
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $2,062,189 grant to the Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission (NIPC) to improve water quality in the Fox River watershed and its tributaries and a $378,237 grant for four projects in the Upper Des Plaines River watershed.
May 4, 2001
$100,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $100,000 in Illinois FIRST funding to the Violence Prevention Peace Promotion Strategy.
May 4, 2001
Ryan Announces $22 Million Loan to Continue Work on Chicago Deep Tunnel Project
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that a low interest loan for $22,834,507 has been approved for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, for construction of the Torrence Avenue segment of the city's Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) system, also known as the "Deep Tunnel Project" to provide flood relief and pollution control.
May 3, 2001
Governor Ryan Honors Police Officers At Memorial
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today joined law enforcement officials, family members and friends in observance of Police Memorial Day to honor officers who died while on duty.
May 2, 2001
$465,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $465,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $150,000 to the Village of Glenview to construct a pedestrian walkway over Golf Road.
May 2, 2001
Governor Announces 2002 Coal Calendar Contest Winners
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today recognized 25 students for their outstanding artwork and essays that have been selected to fill the pages of the 2002 Illinois Coal Calendar. Two children were honored with special recognition awards, and two schools were singled out for their students' level of participation in the contest.
May 2, 2001
$1.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,575,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $750,000 to the Village of Addison to improve storm water management and flood control to alleviate problems experienced at Lake Manor Park along Lake Park Drive and other low lying areas north of Fullerton Avenue.
May 2, 2001
$1.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.1 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $400,000 to the City of Belleville to make improvements to Citizens Park.
May 1, 2001
Governor Ryan Proclaims May "Amusement Ride Safety Awareness Month"
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan has declared May 2001 as "Amusement Ride Safety Awareness Month" in Illinois in recognition of his commitment to the safety of all Illinois citizens and visitors which encompass the amusement riding public.
May 1, 2001
Gov. Ryan Signs Bill on Insurance Coverage
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed into law a bill to provide medical insurance coverage to people whose insurance providers were declared insolvent. The bill also provides for a waiver of the Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan's preexisting conditions exclusions.
April 27, 2001
Ryan Announces $100,000 Grant for Streambank Restoration Projects in Four Counties
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $100,000 grant to Trees Forever a non-profit organization to plant trees, shrubs and grasses along streams, as well as stabilize streambanks, enhance stream channels with natural materials, and create constructed wetlands in Kane, Kendall, Tazewell and Logan County watersheds.
April 27, 2001
Governor Calls Legislative Leaders to Coal Summit
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today called the four legislative leaders to a Legislator Coal Summit on May 2, 2001 to discuss legislation for affordable coal generation in a framework that addresses statewide energy needs.
April 26, 2001
Governor Announces $8.5 Million In ITP Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $8.5 million in Industrial Training Program (ITP) funds have been awarded to upgrade the skills of over 33,000 new and current workers. The grants have been awarded to forty-five entities, including eight companies that will use the funds to instruct their workers and the employees of their suppliers.
April 25, 2001
Governor Ryan Meets With Speaker Hastert
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Governor George H. Ryan met with U.S. House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert today to discuss Illinois' current federal priorities and ways to work together that enhance the prospects of securing additional federal funds for the state.
April 25, 2001
Jacksonville Students Make "Pennies for Lincoln" Donation, Present Lincoln Themes and Drawings for Mrs. Ryan
JACKSONVILLE -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan and students from Lincoln Elementary School celebrated the conclusion of the school's six-week "Pennies for Lincoln" campaign to help raise funds for the children's section of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
April 25, 2001
First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan's Made in Illinois Premiers
New Book Serves As a Commemorative Gallery of the Work of Illinois Artisans
CHICAGO -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced that Made in Illinois, an artisan gallery, which showcases many of the state's premier artisans and their communities, is now available.
April 25, 2001
Governor Announces New Grants Program for Volunteer Service Centers
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced grants totaling $44,800 to 14 volunteer centers in Illinois. The grants will be administered by the Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service-a part of the Department of Human Services (DHS) and are an effort to promote volunteerism and encourage community service.
April 25, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces State Points of Light Award to Recognize Outstanding Volunteers
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the Governor's Points of Light Award to recognize and honor citizens for outstanding community service. The award will be presented to 12 Illinoisans each year who demonstrate exemplary volunteer service to their communities.
April 24, 2001
Ryan, Daley Promote Joint City-State Agenda in Washington
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan and Mayor Richard M. Daley will be in Washington, D.C. Wednesday and Thursday to meet with the Illinois Congressional delegation and other federal officials on behalf of federal initiatives benefiting the city and state.
April 24, 2001
First Lady Accepts "Penny's For Lincoln" Donation for Mrs. Lincoln's Attic
TAYLORVILLE -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today joined students at North Elementary School to read a children's book about Abraham Lincoln in celebration of the "Pennies for Lincoln" campaign.
April 24, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Commemorative Quarter Design Concepts
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the official design themes submitted to the U.S. Mint for the reverse side of the Illinois Commemorative Quarter. The Mint will use these themes to create three to five candidate designs, which will be returned to Illinois for a final selection process later this year.
April 24, 2001
Ryan to Meet With Energy Secretary Abraham
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan will meet in Washington this week with U.S. Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham to discuss energy issues that face Illinois consumers, including the potential for high summertime gasoline prices, increasing the use of ethanol, supporting the clean use of Illinois coal, the disposal of nuclear waste and maintaining adequate supplies of electricity.
April 24, 2001
Governor Adds Two Counties to Disaster Declaration
NIOTA -- Governor George H. Ryan today visited the community of Niota to witness firsthand the conditions of the Mississippi River and its effects on the community.
April 23, 2001
Governor Thanks Organizers of Prevent Child Abuse Month Activities
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today thanked the Prevent Child Abuse Illinois Advocacy Group who joined forces with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)to organize events throughout the state to promote specific ways to prevent the tragedy of child abuse in our communities.
April 23, 2001
Governor Announces Grants for Defibrillators
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced grants totaling $750,000 to 468 government agencies and emergency medical services providers for the purchase of portable automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
April 23, 2001
$372,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $372,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $350,000 to the Village of LaGrange Park to renovate its water tower to solve health and safety issues.
April 23, 2001
$407,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $407,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Far Northwest Suburbs, including $128,000 to the City of McHenry to upgrade police equipment.
April 23, 2001
$1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.070 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest suburbs, including $400,000 to William Rainey Harper College in Palatine. The funds will be used to provide state of the art technology for the college's Physical Science, Biology, and Chemistry programs. The college will contribute approximately 25 percent of the cost.
April 23, 2001
$530,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $530,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the south suburbs, including $250,000 to the Olympia Fields Park District to construct the Iron Oaks Environmental Learning Center.
April 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Names Commission to Rewrite Illinois School Code
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed an executive order establishing a commission to rewrite the existing 40-year-old School Code in Illinois.
April 20, 2001
Governor Declares Eight Counties Disaster Areas
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today declared Adams, Carroll, Jo Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, Mercer, Rock Island and Whiteside counties disaster areas. This disaster declaration is a result of heavy rains and snow melt in the upper Midwest with the potential to cause record and near-record flooding on the Mississippi River, and is a measure to assist communities with the on-going flood fighting efforts.
April 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Marks Earth Day With Grants to Clean Environment, Buy Open Land
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today released grants to promote recycling, acquire land for public use, rehabilitate lagoons, improve boat access facilities and develop computerized models of land-use changes for a Fox River tributary.
April 20, 2001
Ryan Releases $4 Million in Illinois FIRST Funds for New Kankakee County Jail
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that he is releasing $4.185 million in Illinois FIRST funds to Kankakee County to construct a new county jail. The jail will be built next to the Kankakee Airport, a site that will impact the fewest residents in the county and allow for future growth.
April 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Calls for a More Diverse Higher Education Faculty
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan filed an executive order reaffirming his commitment to quality and diversity in higher education faculty by charging the Board of Higher Education to create a strategy to attract more minority faculty.
April 20, 2001
$1.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.443 million in Illinois FIRSTfunding for projects in DuPage County, including $500,000 to the City of Elmhurst to acquire land for construction of a centralized public parking area.
April 20, 2001
$1.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.8 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $400,000 to the City of Lake Forest for the Gorton Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides activities for the benefit of the entire community.
April 20, 2001
$1.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,128,450 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois River valleys, including $1 million to the Kankakee County Emergency Telephone System Board to implement the Wide Area Radio Network.
April 20, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.2 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the west suburbs, including $750,000 to North Central College in Naperville to complete the interior construction of its football/track stadium and to construct five classrooms, a computer lab, a health center, a counseling office, eighteen faculty and coaches offices and office space for student services. The college is contributing $786,918.
April 19, 2001
Ryan Seeks Input on the Development of Statewide Energy Policy
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today asked the citizens of Illinois to help the state's Energy Cabinet develop a statewide policy on energy that will coexist with the short-term and long-term goals of the Bush administration in forming a federal energy strategy for the country.
April 18, 2001
Governor Welcomes Boeing Executives to Illinois
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan joined House Speaker Denny Hastert and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley in welcoming Chief Administrative Officer John Warner and other executives from The Boeing Company to Chicago as part of the company's search for a new corporate home. The Governor and Mayor also attended a dinner reception for the Boeing executives at the Art Institute of Chicago hosted by the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago.
April 18, 2001
Governor Ryan Names Task Force to Examine Universal Pre-School Access
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed an executive order establishing a task force to develop a plan for voluntary universal preschool access in Illinois.
April 18, 2001
First Lady Kicks Off "Pennies For Lincoln" Drive in DeKalb to Benefit the Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
DEKALB -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today continued the promotion of the "Pennies for Lincoln" campaign, which offers Illinois children an opportunity to donate spare pennies to help construct the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
April 17, 2001
Governor Ryan's Sweeping Anti-Predatory Lending Rules Approved by Legislative Panel
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the adoption of sweeping reforms to state lending regulations that will extend important new protection to Illinois homeowners by strictly prohibiting predatory mortgage lending practices. The General Assembly's Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) approved the Ryan Administration's regulations today.
April 17, 2001
Ryan Announces $6,383,562 Loan for Chicago Drinking Water Improvements
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that more than $6 million in low interest loan funding will be provided to improve drinking water treatment by the city of Chicago to monitor water clarity.
April 16, 2001
$300,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Western Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $300,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Western Illinois, including $250,000 to MacMurray College in Jacksonville to improve water flow and flood water management in and immediately adjacent to Town Brook between Hardin and Clay Streets.
April 16, 2001
$950,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $950,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $450,000 to the Village of Washington Park to reconstruct Hallows Avenue from 49th Street to 46th Street as well as 46th Street from Hallows Avenue to Bunkum Road.
April 16, 2001
Governor Awards $400,000 in Grants to Support Major Tourism Events
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that three local organizations will share in over $400,000 in Tourism Private Sector Grants. The funds will assist the groups in hosting major national and international tourism events over the next year in Illinois.
April 16, 2001
$74,250 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $74,250 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwestern Illinois, including $50,000 to the Village of Sublette to replace sidewalks, install handicap ramps, renovate a parking area, and add lights along the sidewalks. This project will provide access for all pedestrians while improving the town's appearance for tourists. The village is contributing $53,450.
April 16, 2001
$885,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $885,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $300,000 to Calhoun County to build a new highway maintenance shed. The existing maintenance shed is located on a flood plain.
April 13, 2001
Ryans Release 2000 Income Tax Returns
SPRINGFIELD - Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today made public their federal and state income tax returns for 2000.
April 13, 2001
$137,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $137,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys, including $100,000 to the Rialto Square Theatre Corporation for improvements to the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet.
April 13, 2001
Governor Ryan Makes Appointments to Eastern Illinois University Board of Trustees
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today the appointment of Robert C. Manion and Juliette T. Nimmons to the Eastern Illinois University Board of Trustees.
April 13, 2001
$370,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $370,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $150,000 to the Historic Properties Preservation Foundation of Decatur, an organization that raises and distributes funds to help renovate and restore historic properties.
April 13, 2001
$1.5 million in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.5 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $814,444 to the Illinois Valley Public Telecommunications Corporation in Peoria for converting its local public television station, WTVP, to a digital broadcast facility, as mandated by the FCC.
April 13, 2001
$324,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $324,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $40,000 to the Rural Pope County Fire Protection District to purchase new fire fighting equipment.
April 12, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Site of State's New $140 Million Maximum Security Prison
GRAYVILLE -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the appropriation of $129 million in state bond funds and $11 million in Federal funds to build a 1,600-bed maximum-security prison in Grayville. There also will be a 200-bed minimum-security unit to house inmates who will provide maintenance and complete community service projects, creating a capacity for 1,800 inmates.
April 11, 2001
Ryan Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions; Names Southern Illinois University Board Members
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is appointing two new members and making two reappointments to the Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees and making one new appointment for the University of Illinois Board of Trustees.
April 11, 2001
$1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.36 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to the Illinois Institute of Technology to support the Illinois Center for Food Safety and Technology.
April 11, 2001
Substance Abuse Among Illinois College Students Lower Than National Average
CHICAGO -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced the results of a study that shows the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and hallucinogenic drugs among Illinois college students is lower than the national average.
April 11, 2001
$4.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $4.4 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $3,500,000 to AIDSCare, Inc. to construct and establish an independent and supportive living environment for persons living with HIV/AIDS in the Chicago area.
April 11, 2001
$2.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,472,250 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $2,000,000 to Adkins Energy Cooperative, located in Lena, to construct an ethanol production plant.
April 11, 2001
$110,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $110,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford area, including $100,000 to Cortland to extend a storm sewer.
April 11, 2001
$2.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.457 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $1,500,000 to the Art Institute of Chicago to renovate the main entrance stairs.
April 10, 2001
Ryan, Daley Announce Blue-Ribbon Committee to Recruit Boeing
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan and Mayor Richard M. Daley today named a blue-ribbon committee of business, civic, academic and cultural leaders to lead efforts to attract The Boeing Company's corporate headquarters to Chicago.
April 10, 2001
Grant Helps Seward Township Firm Expand, Create Jobs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today said the state will provide a $450,000 grant to Seward Township in unincorporated Winnebago County, enabling the township to drill a new well needed to meet water supply needs of its only manufacturer, Seward Screw Products, Inc.
April 10, 2001
Illinois Department of Human Services Hosts Symposium on Teen Dating Violence
SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) today hosted a first-of-its kind Symposium on Teen Dating Violence at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield.
April 6, 2001
Ryan Announces Brownfields Redevelopment Grant for City of the Harvey
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the City of Harvey was awarded a $32,884 Brownfields Redevelopment Grant by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.
April 6, 2001
Ryan Announces Brownfields Redevelopment Grant for the City of Mt. Vernon
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the City of Mt. Vernon has been awarded a $48,032 Brownfields Redevelopment Grant from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.
April 5, 2001
Governor Ryan Urges President to Deny California Oxygenate Waiver Request
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today urged President George W. Bush to deny a motor fuel oxygenate waiver for California, saying the waiver would cause significant harm to the ethanol industry and to Illinois farmers.
April 5, 2001
Governor Ryan Proclaims April "Soy Foods Month"
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan has declared April as "Soy Foods Month" in Illinois in recognition of the $2.2 billion impact soy production has on the state.
April 4, 2001
"Illinois Doll" Joins Unique State Collection in Pennsylvania
SPRINGFIELD -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan announced today that a specially designed hand-crafted doll representing the State of Illinois has taken its place among 47 other "state dolls" at the Strawberry Mansion Doll Museum in Philadelphia.
April 4, 2001
$1.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.198 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the northwest suburbs, including $450,000 to the Glenview Park District to develop multiple use sports playing fields for the Community Park West facility.
April 4, 2001
$585,300 in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $585,300 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $175,000 to the City of Pekin to revitalize its riverfront district.
April 4, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Nearly $4 Million to Expand Substance Abuse Treatment Services for Juvenile Offenders
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a statewide $3.7 million substance abuse initiative to expand treatment services for juveniles involved with the criminal justice system. The initiative is administered by the (DHS).
April 4, 2001
$736,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $736,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the far Northwest suburbs, including $400,000 to the Village of Burlington to update and repair water mains.
April 4, 2001
$540,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $540,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $315,000 to the City of Arcola to renovate its municipal building.
April 4, 2001
$440,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $440,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $200,000 to Island Grove Township to construct a new township building.
April 3, 2001
Governor Joins Legislative Leaders to Announce Funding for US 51 Expansion
MACON -- Governor George H. Ryan today joined legislative leaders to announce more than $22 million has been included in the Department of Transportation's five-year highway improvement program for the continued expansion of US 51 in Macon, Shelby, and Christian counties.
April 3, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces $184 Million in Illinois FIRST Funds for Continuation of Illinois 336 Construction
QUINCY -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that $184 million has been included in the Department of Transportation's five-year highway improvement program to fully fund completion of US 136/Illinois 336 between Quincy and Macomb.
April 3, 2001
Governor Ryan Unveils $2.3 Billion Highway Program For Fiscal Year 2002
QUINCY -- Governor George H. Ryan today unveiled a comprehensive highway improvement program, continuing a record pace in the delivery of Illinois FIRST road and bridge improvements.
April 2, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Land Acquisition For Proposed Sangamon Valley Bike Trail
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the acquisition of 38 miles of railroad right-of-way in central Illinois for development of the proposed Sangamon Valley Trail bicycle path.
March 30, 2001
$720,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $720,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the south suburbs, including $200,000 to the Village of Thornton to construct, equip and furnish an observatory/learning center at Material Services Corporation's stone quarry.
March 30, 2001
$260,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $260,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford area, including $150,000 to the City of Byron to repair sidewalks, curbs and gutters on Second Street from Washington Street to Chestnut Street.
March 30, 2001
$261,550 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the West Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $261,550 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the west suburbs, including $147,200 to the City of Geneva to enhance its downtown area.
March 30, 2001
Seven Illinois Counties Receive U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George Ryan announced today that the U.S. Small Business Administration has approved his request to provide disaster assistance in the form of low-interest loans to the residents of Henry County and the contiguous counties of Bureau, Knox, Mercer, Rock Island, Stark and Whiteside. Flooding from the Rock River in the Village of Cleveland and surrounding area in Henry County caused damage to homes and businesses during the latter part of February. This flood was caused by an ice jam, inundating the area in a matter of hours.
March 30, 2001
Governor Announces Auto Component Manufacturing Plant Coming to Southern Illinois
MARION -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Aisin U.S.A. Manufacturing, Inc. will construct a $20 million automobile component manufacturing facility in Marion. Construction on the 150,000 square foot building is scheduled to be completed by June of next year, and the company plans on employing approximately 200 people by the end of 2002.
March 30, 2001
$363,900 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $363,900 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $85,000 to the Lindenhurst Park District to purchase a new bus with a handicap lift.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. More than $9 million will be spent to repair roads in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Knox and Fulton counties. An additional $1.1 million will be spent in McLean County to resurface 6.9 miles on Interstate 55/74 around the west side of Bloomington/Normal.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- Sangamon County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. Roads in Springfield and Sangamon County will receive $3.7 million in repairs.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- Quad Cities
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. More than $21 million has been allocated for spring repairs in IDOT District 2, which includes most of Northwestern Illinois. Nearly $10 million has been earmarked for repairs in the Quad Cities.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- Metro East
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. More than $3 million has been allocated for Metro East roads.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. Highways in southern Illinois have been targeted for $2.6 million in road repairs.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. More than $4.3 million has been allocated for repair in the 12 counties in District 5, which covers most of East-Central Illinois.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- Northwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. More than $21 million has been earmarked for the 12 counties that comprise IDOT District 2, which includes all of Northwestern Illinois.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads -- Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather. Nearly $16 million has been earmarked for spring road repairs in Chicago and the collar counties.
March 30, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Program to Fix Winter-Damaged Roads
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $78 million spring road repair program to speed the fix-up of roads throughout the state that were damaged by the winter weather.
March 28, 2001
Ryan Proposes Plan to Eliminate Tolls; Rebuild and Widen Crowded Roads
LOCKPORT -- Governor George H. Ryan today unveiled a comprehensive program that will close down toll booths on the 43-year-old toll highway system in Northeastern Illinois, rebuild crumbling sections of the system and construct the badly-needed south extension of Interstate 355 into Will County.
March 28, 2001
$2 Million in Illinois FIRST Funding for Medinah Temple Renovation
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2 million in Illinois FIRST funding to help with the renovation of the historic downtown block that contains the Medinah Temple building and the Tree Studios.
March 28, 2001
$2.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,252,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago and Suburban Cook County, including $1 million to help renovate the Unity Temple, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed national historic landmark in Oak Park.
March 27, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.269 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $250,000 to the Thresholds Older Adult Program to help maintain and restore services that were cut as a result of Federal Medicare program changes.
March 27, 2001
$145,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $145,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $100,000 to the City of Silvis to expand its public library.
March 26, 2001
$1.6 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.665 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $750,000 to the Ounce of Prevention Fund to repay a loan used for construction of the Erikson Institute Educenter.
March 23, 2001
$16.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $16.14 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $13,000,000 to renovate and restore the landmark Auditorium Theater.
March 23, 2001
Authentify Establishes New Headquarters in Chicago
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Authentify, Inc. is expanding its Illinois operations and will set up new headquarters in Chicago. The project will result in the creation of 80 new jobs over the course of the next two years with the retention of a current staff of 25. Authentify, which was founded and headquartered in Des Plaines, chose Chicago over Houston, TX for its expansion.
March 23, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Eight Clean Lakes Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that eight Clean Lakes Program grants totaling $965,372 have been approved to begin or continue lake improvement projects at 11 lakes around the state.
March 22, 2001
Governor Ryan Makes Sales Pitch to Boeing -- Governor Calls Boeing Executive Leading Headquarters Selection Effort
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George Ryan today personally contacted Boeing executive John Warner, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, and the point person on the selection of a new Boeing Corporate Headquarters, to discuss the company's plans to relocate their headquarters from Seattle.
March 21, 2001
Governor Announces New Literacy Goals and Touts Progress
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan thanked the Advisory Council on Literacy for the "Illinois Reads: Report on Literacy in Illinois," detailing the current status of literacy initiatives and establishing future goals for the coming year.
March 21, 2001
Governor Makes Pitch for Boeing Headquarters
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the State of Illinois will aggressively pursue The Boeing Company's corporate headquarters relocation. Boeing announced that Chicago is among three cities being considered as the new location for the company's world headquarters.
March 21, 2001
Gov. Ryan Calls to Eliminate 81 State Boards and Commissions
Governor Continues Major Commitment to Streamlining Government
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today recommended 81 state boards and commissions be eliminated, continuing his efforts to streamline Illinois government.
March 21, 2001
$315,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $315,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwest Illinois, including $75,000 to the Illinois Conservation Foundation for expenses associated with the 2000 Bass Quest Tournament.
March 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces 2001 Heritage Grant Awards
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the recipients of the 2001 Heritage Grants, a new program designed to help not-for-profit organizations and local governments rehabilitate historic properties.
March 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Acquisition of 160 Acres of Land in Iroquois County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the acquisition of 160 acres of land in southwest Iroquois County to provide additional habitat for grassland wildlife.
March 20, 2001
Governor Reaffirms Vision of the Illinois Century Network, New Director is Named
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan continues his commitment to promote and support the establishment and expansion of the Illinois Century Network (ICN), a high-speed telecommunications network providing access to data, video, and audio communication in schools, libraries, colleges, universities, museums, and municipal government.
March 20, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Acquisition of 147 Acres in Vermilion County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the acquisition of 147 acres along the Little Vermilion River in east-central Illinois through his Open Land Trust Program.
March 19, 2001
Krispy Kreme to Open Plant in Effingham
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc. is planning to construct a new mix and distribution facility in Effingham that will create 100 new jobs over the next three years.
March 16, 2001
$8.6 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $8.6 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $7.3 million to the DuPage County Forest Preserve District.
March 16, 2001
Gov. Ryan Issues Executive Order Forming Mississippi Delta Advisory Council
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today issued an executive order creating the Mississippi Delta Advisory Council for the 16 Southern Illinois counties in the federally designated Lower Mississippi River Region.
March 16, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces a $1 Million Plan to Expand Substance Abuse Treatment Services in Rural Areas
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a $1 million initiative to expand substance abuse treatment services in rural Illinois. Twenty-one community-based substance abuse treatment programs received funding for the rural initiative, which is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS).
March 16, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces a $3.9 Million Plan to Expand Substance Abuse Treatment Services for Men
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced $3.9 million to expand substance abuse treatment services for men who suffer from addiction, but lack the resources to pay for services. The male/family reunification initiative, administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, is part of the Governor's plan for health care and substance abuse services.
March 16, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Plan to Expand Substance Abuse Treatment Services for Female Offenders
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a statewide substance abuse initiative to expand treatment services for women involved with the criminal justice system. The $833,228 initiative is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS).
March 16, 2001
USEPA Will Increase Carbon Monoxide Reduction Benefit in Reformulated Gasoline
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today commended the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for recognizing the clean air benefits of ethanol fuel with changes to the reformulated gasoline (RFG) program - one that may also result in lower gasoline prices this summer.
March 15, 2001
$2.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.7 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $1.4 million to McLean County to resurface and reconstruct Towanda-Barnes Road.
March 15, 2001
$2.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.2 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $500,000 to the Foss Park District to design and plan a sports and recreational facility.
March 15, 2001
$80,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago's Southwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $80,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's southwest suburbs, including $30,000 to the Fox Valley YMCA to continue construction of a new, enlarged facility to serve an existing pre-school program.
March 15, 2001
$2.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,434,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $800,000 to the City of Centreville to continue a sewer project to extend service to areas of the community that currently use septic systems.
March 14, 2001
$1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,318,300 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $190,000 to Rantoul Township to construct an equipment maintenance facility.
March 14, 2001
$3.6 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3,630,000 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois including $1.3 million to the Village of Roxana to make improvements to Wagon Wheel Road.
March 14, 2001
$1.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,867,500 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys, including $500,000 to the City of Peru for road improvements on Shooting Park Road.
March 13, 2001
$2.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,252,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago and Suburban Cook County, including $1 million to help renovate the Unity Temple, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed national historic landmark in Oak Park.
March 12, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Acquisition of 2,272 Acres in Brown County
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced the acquisition of 2,272 acres of land in Brown County, known as Buckhorn Ranch, for public recreation and natural resource protection.
March 12, 2001
Ryan Announces Funding for Flossmoor Waste Treatment Plant
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Cook County village of Flossmoor will receive approximately $1.2 million in Illinois FIRST funding to improve sanitary sewers in the Braeburn/Brassie area of the village.
March 12, 2001
$5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago's South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $5 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's south suburbs, including $1,000,000 to the village of Evergreen Park to acquire and renovate the village's municipal golf course and facilities.
March 11, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Plans for New Kankakee County Jail Moving Forward
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $4 million dollars of Illinois FIRST funding will be made available for a new Kankakee County Jail, and that a site for the new jail has been selected. The $4.185 million will allow the Kankakee County Public Building Commission to move ahead with planning and site preparation.
March 9, 2001
Gov. Ryan and President Kim Discuss Trade, Korean Relations -- Ryan honors Nobel Prize winner
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today welcomed President Kim Dae-jung of the Republic of Korea to Illinois and commended President Kim for his lifelong commitment to human rights.
March 9, 2001
$6.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $6.88 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $75,000 to the Illinois Masonic Medical Center to develop and deliver a home management program for children with autism and their families.
March 9, 2001
Ryan Announces Funding for Swansea Waste Treatment Plant
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that funding has been approved for a $1.6 million project to improve sewage treatment at Swansea in St. Clair County.
March 9, 2001
Ryan Announces $600,000 Loan to Pair with Illinois FIRST Funds for New Water Tower at Carthage
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that a low interest loan for $600,000 has been approved for the city of Carthage to upgrade the city's drinking water plant.
March 8, 2001
Gov. Ryan Proposes Major Ethics Reform: End Soliciting of Employees, Strengthen Gift Ban, Limit Influence on Contracting -- Civic Federation, Senator Simon Endorse Ethics Reform Package
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan has proposed a sweeping ethics reform package that strengthens the gift ban act; bans all state constitutional officers from soliciting campaign contributions from their employees; curtails fundraising by state regulators; and limits the influence of former state officials in the awarding of state contracts.
March 7, 2001
First Lady Kicks Off "Pennies for Lincoln" Drive to Benefit Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
ALTAMONT - First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today officially kicked off the "Pennies for Lincoln" campaign, which offers Illinois schoolchildren an opportunity to donate spare pennies to help construct the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
March 7, 2001
$2.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.385 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $500,000 to the Chicago Park District to develop a new park at an historic site.
March 6, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces $4.8 Million in Museum Operating Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today awarded $4.8 million in grants to 85 museums to enhance their education programs and expand educational opportunities for students, tourists and other visitors.
March 6, 2001
Governor Announces $10 Million in Capital Grants for Public Museum Exhibits and Facilities
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced $10 million in grants to 39 public museums to assist in developing new exhibits and improving museum facilities.
March 5, 2001
$1.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,142,400 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $250,000 to the Southwestern School Foundation to construct the Southwestern Athletic Facility in Piasa.
March 5, 2001
Governor Announces Community Water and Sewer Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $24 million in grants to 94 villages, cities, townships and counties for the improvement and upkeep of vital water and sewage infrastructure.
March 5, 2001
$493,250 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $493,250 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwestern Illinois, including $90,000 to the Albany Fire Protection District to purchase a new pumper/tanker fire truck. The district is contributing $46,589.
March 2, 2001
Governor Announces Grants for Recreational Trail and Off-Highway Trail Development and Maintenance Projects
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $1 million in grants to 14 communities and organizations for recreational trail development and maintenance projects.
March 2, 2001
$2.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,752,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's Northwest Suburbs, including $632,000 to the Village of Buffalo Grove to install a traffic signal on Weiland Road at the Aptakisic Junior High School exit and to install 2,400 feet of chain link fence at the school.
March 2, 2001
Union Pacific Railroad Donates $50,000 to Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
CHICAGO -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a $50,000 donation from the Union Pacific Railroad Company for the construction and operation of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
March 1, 2001
State Grants for Teen Reach Programs Expanded
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan announced today that more than $600,000 will be awarded to nine new Teen REACH programs throughout the state, expanding state support for initiatives that provide young people with after-school educational and cultural activities.
March 1, 2001
Governor Issues Disaster Declaration for Henry and Rock Island Counties
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today issued a disaster declaration for Henry and Rock Island counties, following severe flooding along the Rock River as a result of ice jams. Affected areas include the community of Cleveland and the townships of Colona and Hanna in Henry County and the communities of Osborn, Barstow and Hillsdale and the townships of Hampton and Zuma in Rock Island County, as well as unincorporated areas of Henry and Rock Island counties.
February 28, 2001
$5.6 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $5,617,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $2,000,000 to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio to restore the Frederick C. Robie House.
February 28, 2001
$5.6 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $805,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's Far Northwest Suburbs, including $200,000 to the city of Crystal Lake to improve the intersection of Route 176 and Walkup Avenue.
February 28, 2001
Ryan Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the following appointments to Illinois boards and commissions:
February 27, 2001
$7.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $7,263,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including three grants totaling $5 million for the expansion and renovation of York High School in Elmhurst.
February 27, 2001
Transora Establishes Permanent Headquarters in Chicago
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that global e-Marketplace Transora will establish its permanent global headquarters at 10 South Riverside Plaza in Chicago's West Loop. The company's new home will eventually accommodate more than 250 employees.
February 27, 2001
Ryan Announces Fitch Upgrade of Build Illinois Bond Rating
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Fitch, a national credit rating agency, has upgraded the state's Build Illinois bond rating from AA to AA+.
February 26, 2001
Governor Ryan Discusses Peotone Airport With U.S. Transportation Secretary
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Governor George H. Ryan commended U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta and the FAA for moving ahead with the environmental review of the proposed airport in Peotone, while at the same time urging the Secretary to restore the airport project to a key planning list making the airport eligible for federal funding.
February 26, 2001
Gov. Ryan Talks Education at White House, Joins President in Call for Increased Investment and Accountability
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Governor George H. Ryan emphasized continued investment in education and increased accountability with annual testing for students in White House meetings today with President Bush and senior administration officials.
February 23, 2001
State Hosts Annual African-American History Month Celebration
CHICAGO -- The annual program celebrating African-American History Month was held at noon today at the James R. Thompson Center.
February 23, 2001
$266,350 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $266,350 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford area, including $50,000 to the City of Belvidere to reconstruct McInnes Court.
February 23, 2001
Governor Ryan Urges Lawmakers To Pass Supplemental Appropriation To Provide Health Care, Heating Assistance
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today urged the General Assembly to approve his proposed supplemental appropriation designed to supplement the Comprehensive Health Insurance Program for individuals who cannot obtain medical insurance; to help low-income citizens with their heating bills; close the Medicaid funding gap and to immediately provide an hourly wage increase for those caring for the developmentally disabled.
February 22, 2001
Ryan: Finance Authority Consolidation Bill Introduced
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that legislation reforming and consolidating the state's 16 existing bonding authorities into a new Illinois State Finance Authority has been introduced in the Illinois Senate.
February 21, 2001
Governor Ryan Introduces 2002 Budget to Invest in Education, Human Services and Illinois Communities -- 51 Percent of New Revenues for Education for Third Straight Year,Peotone Airport Land Acquisition to Begin
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today introduced a $50 billion budget for fiscal year 2002 that proposes, for the third year in a row, an unprecedented commitment of 51 percent of new revenues to education while also continuing investments in our communities, human services and public safety.
February 21, 2001
Gov. Ryan Commits 51 Percent of New Revenue to Education, Backs Reforms of State Board of Education, Annual Testing
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today in his budget address announced 51 percent of all new revenue, $460 million, will be committed to education and workforce training for a total of nearly $9 billion in the next fiscal year. The Governor also endorsed proposed reforms to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Illinois State Board of Education, as well as efforts by education and business leaders to develop annual student testing.
February 16, 2001
"LincolnCam" Available to View Progress of Presidential Library
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan announced today that Illinois citizens and history buffs can watch construction progress on the new Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum via a new Internet "LincolnCam" mounted across the street from the building site.
February 16, 2001
Governor Announces $6 Million in Illinois FIRST Funds for the City of Sterling
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the City of Sterling will receive $6 million in Illinois FIRST funding for economic development and job retention.
February 15, 2001
$3.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Lake County
SPRINGFIELD - - Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.7 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Lake County, including $400,000 to the Village of Lake Bluff for improvements to the McClory bicycle and pedestrian trail.
February 14, 2001
Governor Announces Tourism Award Winners -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan honored with inaugural Friend of Tourism Award
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today recognized 36 individuals and tourism groups as Governor's Conference Award winners, one of the top honors bestowed in the Illinois tourism industry. He also joined Visit Illinois in honoring First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan for her efforts on behalf of tourism in Illinois. All winners were announced during the Governor's Awards Luncheon at the 2001 Governor's Conference on Tourism.
February 14, 2001
$3.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3,521,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $2,000,000 to Lewis and Clark Community College.
February 14, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Commission Members
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the names of those people who will serve on the Bicentennial Commission which will prepare Illinois to celebrate Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark's exploration of the American frontier in 2003-2004.
February 14, 2001
First Lady Spreads Powerful Message in E-Valentine's Day Card -- Helps parents send Love and Anti-Drug Messages to their kids
SPRINGFIELD -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan is partnering with Kids in a Drug-Free Society in playing Cupid by making an e-Valentine's Day card available to parents and caregivers so they can personalize and send it to the children in their lives.
February 13, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces $500,000 to Improve Access to Legal Assistance to Low-Income Illinoisans
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) will provide $500,000 to the Illinois Equal Justice Foundation for legal assistance for low-income persons.
February 12, 2001
Governor Ryan, Dignitaries Break Ground for Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today broke ground for the new Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, a facility that will house the state's priceless collection of Lincoln artifacts and serve as the central focus of Lincoln's legacy in his hometown.
February 9, 2001
Governor Announces Public Aid Director Patla Will Not Seek Reappointment; Names Jackie Garner to Lead Agency
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced Ann Patla, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Aid, will not seek reappointment to that position for personal reasons. The Governor has nominated Jackie Garner of Springfield to serve as Director of the agency.
February 9, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.2 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys, including $500,000 to the Will County Community Development Department to make various improvements to the Clearview Sanitary sewer and water system. The county is contributing $1.5 million.
February 9, 2001
First Lady Launches New Program to Improve Early Care and Education for Young Children
SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced $3 million to launch the Strategies to Attract and Retain Teachers (Great START) program. The program-to be administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS)-is designed to improve the development of Illinois' children by creating a better trained, stable child care workforce.
February 9, 2001
$308,450 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $308,450 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $75,000 to Montmorency Elementary School in Rock Falls to replace the roof, a classroom, and a hallway destroyed by a tornado. The school is contributing $391,915.
February 9, 2001
$1.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago's South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.4 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago and the city's south suburbs, including $500,000 to Calumet City to replace sidewalks along Burham Avenue.
February 8, 2001
State Farm Donates $1 Million to Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
SPRINGFIELD -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a $1 million donation from the State Farm Companies Foundation for the construction and operation of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
February 7, 2001
Private Donations to Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum Grow
SPRINGFIELD - Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced $500,000 in new private donations toward the construction of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
February 7, 2001
$300,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $300,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Northwest Suburbs, including $100,000 to the Village of Hoffman Estates Police Department.
February 7, 2001
$1.3 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for North Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.3 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in North Central Illinois, including $510,000 to the Center for Manufacturing Excellence.
February 7, 2001
$647,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Far Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $647,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the far Northwest Suburbs, including $225,000 to the City of Elgin.
February 7, 2001
$3.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.779 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $675,000 to ARC-Community Support Systems to construct an addition and to remodel its facility on Harvestor Street in Teutopolis.
February 6, 2001
Governor Ryan Declares Ronald Reagan Day in Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan declared today, "Ronald Reagan Day" in Illinois, honoring one of Illinois' native sons. February 6 is the former President's 90th birthday and an opportunity for all Illinois citizens to reflect on the accomplishments of the native of our great state.
February 6, 2001
$1.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.7 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $393,000 to the City of Mascoutah to construct a new indoor pool and an adjoining recreation complex and for renovation to existing facilities.
February 6, 2001
$375,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Western Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $375,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in western Illinois, including $175,000 to the Table Grove Fire Protection District to purchase a new rescue/pumper fire truck. Additionally, the funds will be used to purchase a fire fighting apparatus and equipment for the truck.
February 5, 2001
Governor Ryan Urges Illinoisans to Help Indian Earthquake Victims
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George Ryan today announced the State of Illinois and the Red Cross are joining together to set up a special relief effort that will allow Illinois residents to support the relief work in India following last month's earthquake. The earthquake killed thousands and left tens of thousands more injured and homeless.
February 5, 2001
Governor Announces Spartan Light Metals to Expand, Add Jobs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Spartan Light Metals of Sparta will invest $5.1 million in a 35,000 sq. ft. expansion, retaining 35 jobs and creating an additional 34 jobs.
February 5, 2001
Governor Announces $14 Million in Illinois FIRST Funds for Continuation of Illinois 336 Construction
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the work to extend Illinois 336--the Quincy to Macomb highway--into Hancock County will begin today. The $14 million project is funded by the Governor's Illinois FIRST program.
February 1, 2001
The Motorola Foundation Donates $1 Million to Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
CHICAGO -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a $1 million gift from the Motorola Foundation for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The $115 million, two-building complex to be built in downtown Springfield will house the state's 46,000 item Lincoln collection, while serving as the new home of the Illinois State Historical Library.
February 1, 2001
Governor Signs Bill to Help Landowners in Fight to Keep Property
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed legislation enabling the State of Illinois to join 15 East-Central Illinois landowners in the defense of their property. The bill authorizes the Attorney General's office to pay for legal services to defend the property owners in a lawsuit filed by the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma.
January 31, 2001
Ryan Declares Illinois a Strong State; Urges Changes to Make State Government More Accountable, Efficient
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today said the State of Illinois and its people are "strong, confident and ready to face the future" in 2001.
January 30, 2001
$2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $450,000 to Kennedy King College for the Opening Doors/Changing Lives Project and domestic violence programs.
January 30, 2001
$15.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $15.843 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $10 million to Northwestern University.
January 30, 2001
$2.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for East Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.5 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $700,000 to the Urbana Park District for the construction of an indoor swimming pool.
January 30, 2001
$882,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $882,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago and Suburban Cook County, including $250,000 to Dominican University in River Forest.
January 30, 2001
$1.3 Million n Illinois FIRST Projects For Southwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,372,125 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's Southwest Suburbs, including $500,000 to Kids In Need, an organization that provides care and counseling to children who are without parents due to death, medical emergency or court ruling. The agency serves approximately 6,000 children within a six-county area.
January 30, 2001
$2.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.897 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $1.2 million to the Homan Square Community Center Foundation to construct a family and health pavilion as a part of its community center campus.
January 30, 2001
$2.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Rockford Area
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2,133,200 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford area, including $900,000 to the Rockford Park District to make park and museum improvements.
January 29, 2001
Governor Awards School Maintenance Grants
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that public school districts, university laboratory and charter schools applying for a Fiscal Year 2001 school maintenance grant will receive funding for their top priority projects. Funding levels this year will also allow a second grant award to a significant number of entities based on a "need index" defined in the program rules.
January 26, 2001
Ryan Announces Brownfields Redevelopment Grant for City of Rockford
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the City of Rockford was awarded a $120,000 Brownfields Redevelopment Grant by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for investigation of environmental contamination at potential redevelopment sites.
January 25, 2001
$2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.025 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $750,000 to the Village of Addison to make improvements at the Lake Manor pond.
January 24, 2001
$2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.025 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $750,000 to the Village of Addison to make improvements at the Lake Manor pond.
January 24, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Illinois' Commemorative Quarter Design Process, Student Contest, and Quarter Design Web Site
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that Illinois is beginning the first stage of the Commemorative Quarter design selection process. The Commemorative Quarter Program™ is a 10-year initiative, beginning in 1999 and concluding in 2008, commemorating each of the 50 United States. The goal of the first stage is to provide the U.S. Mint with three to five design concepts. The U.S. Mint will use Illinois' concepts to create candidate designs, which will be returned to Illinois for a final selection process.
January 24, 2001
Ryan Announces Walgreens Donation to Assist Transplant Recipients
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a donation of up to $100,000 by Walgreens to provide initial funding for a new state program to assist organ transplant recipients. The program will assist those who do not have adequate insurance coverage or who are not eligible for other government assistance with paying for drugs and other costs associated with post transplant maintenance and retention.
January 23, 2001
Governor Announces 2001 Small Business Award Winners
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the winners of the Governor's Small Business Awards, which recognize the important contribution that small business owners make to the Illinois economy.
January 23, 2001
Governor Announces $1 Million Federal Grant to Increase Help to Illinois Farmers
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced Illinois has been awarded a $1.024 million grant by the U.S. Department of Labor to expand state job training and employment assistance to Illinois farmers, farm families and workers who have lost their jobs due to declines in the farming industry.
January 23, 2001
Governor Announces a $4.7 Million Federal Award to Assist Family Caregivers
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the Illinois Department on Aging will receive $4.7 million from the federal government from the Family Caregiver Support Program to assist families providing care for elderly or ailing relatives.
January 23, 2001
Governor Names Small Business Advocate
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George Ryan today announced the appointment of Phyllis Scott to the position of Small Business Advocate within the Governor's Office. The creation of a small business advocate was a key recommendation of the 2000 Governor's Small Business Summit.
January 23, 2001
$4.5 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $4.503 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago, including $1.5 million to the Chicago Partnership for Economic Development to assist Central City Studios, L.L.C. to develop and construct a new production complex on a twenty-one acre site, in the Lawndale neighborhood.
January 23, 2001
$4.1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago's South Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $4,136,606 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's south suburbs, including $1.3 million to the Village of Willow Springs for street improvements to Archer Avenue.
January 19, 2001
Gov. Ryan Reappoints Cabinet, Praises Commitment to Serve
Adopts compensation review board-approved salary restructuring for Cabinet
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the reappointment of 28 of the cabinet-level members of his administration.
January 19, 2001
Gov. Ryan Announces $79 Million Grant for CTA's Elevated Blue Line
WASHINGTON, DC -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a combination of Illinois First funds totaling nearly $79 million for the rehabilitation of the Chicago Transit Authority's Douglas Branch of the Blue elevated line.
January 18, 2001
Governor Ryan Urges President Clinton to Deny California Application for Waiver on Reformulated Gasoline
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today urged President Clinton to deny California's application for a waiver from the oxygenated requirement for formulated gasoline.
January 18, 2001
Illinois Counties Receive Federal Snow Emergency Declaration
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the Federal Government has approved his request for a Federal Snow Emergency declaration and designated 21 counties eligible to receive federal assistance as a result of record or near-record snowfall earlier this month. More Illinois counties may be added as new information becomes available.
January 16, 2001
Governor Announces $3.7 Million in Grants to Assist Community Land Development and Growth Projects
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a total of $3.7 million in grants for 41 communities to help them develop plans for future growth that will protect and improve the quality of life.
January 16, 2001
$1.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Western Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.422 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Western Illinois, including $832,000 to the Meredosia Lake Drainage & Levee District to repair the Meredosia Lake Levee
January 16, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago's North and Northwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.862 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's north and northwest suburbs, including $200,000 to the City of Des Plaines Self Help Pantry Closet to purchase a building at 600 Algonquin Street.
January 16, 2001
$4.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $4.275 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $950,000 to construct a multi-purpose baseball stadium in Collinsville.
January 16, 2001
$1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD - - Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Central Illinois, including $250,000 to the West Central Educational Television Consortium. The Consortium is a not-for-profit organization that provides public television broadcasting for a 16-county region in Western and Central Illinois. The grant will be used for educational programming costs.
January 16, 2001
$3.4 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $3.45 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southern Illinois, including $500,000 to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale to help construct a research park.
January 16, 2001
$1.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northwest Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1,210,425 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northwest Illinois, including $300,000 to the Village of Hampton to construct the Hampton Heritage Center.
January 16, 2001
Gov. Ryan Lauds Retiring Supreme Court Justice Benjamin K. Miller
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today praised Illinois Supreme Court Justice Benjamin K. Miller of Springfield, who plans to retire on Jan. 29.
January 12, 2001
Governor Proclaims January 13-21 Martin Luther King Jr. Week
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today proclaimed January 13 - January 21 as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Week in Illinois. Citing Dr. King's passionate commitment to volunteerism and community service, the governor urged everyone to participate in volunteer activities in honor of Dr. King.
January 12, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces $22.7 Million in Grants for Local Park Land Acquisition and Development
PEORIA Governor George H. Ryan today announced $22.7 million in grants for 81 projects throughout the state that will provide new local parks, develop and improve park lands, and enhance recreational facilities and natural areas.
January 11, 2001
Governor Expands Illinois Enterprise Zones
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed legislation that expands the State's Enterprise Zone program to allow targeted areas throughout Illinois to continue revitalization and economic development efforts.
January 10, 2001
Governor Signs Legislation to Allow More Low Income Households to Participate in LIHEAP Program
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed House Bill 50 which raises the eligibility level for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) from 125% of the federal poverty level to 150%.
January 9, 2001
Ryan's LIHEAP Expansion Proposal Passes General Assembly
More low-income households to receive home heating assistance
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today applauded the Illinois General Assembly for passing House Bill 50 which raises the eligibility level for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)from 125% of the federal poverty level to 150%. The higher eligibility level means that more than 142,000 new households will be eligible for LIHEAP assistance.
January 9, 2001
Ryan Requests Federal Snow Emergency Declaration
SPRINGFIELD - Governor George H. Ryan today requested a Federal Snow Emergency declaration from the President.
January 9, 2001
Governor Proclaims January 8-14th Pharmaceutical Assistance Week to Highlight Circuit Breaker
CHICAGO --- Governor George H. Ryan proclaimed January 8-14, 2001 Pharmaceutical Assistance Week in Illinois, calling attention to the state's newly expanded Circuit Breaker/Pharmaceutical Assistance Program, which will help more people pay for prescription medications.
January 9, 2001
Governor Announces New Procter & Gamble Facility
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Procter & Gamble Company is consolidating three existing facilities in Missouri into a new state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution center to be built in Pontoon Beach in Madison County. Procter and Gamble will lease an 800,000 square foot facility in the Gateway Commerce Center, one of the largest in the Greater St. Louis area, creating 130 full-time jobs.
January 9, 2001
Governor Ryan, Mayor Daley Launch Effort to Help Low Income Families Claim State, Federal Earned Income Tax Credit
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today urged low-income workers in Illinois to take advantage of the new state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the federal EITC.
January 8, 2001
Governor Ryan Announces Acquisition of Critical Buffer for Wolf Road Prairie
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the state has acquired 16 acres of critical buffer lands for Wolf Road Prairie in suburban Westchester, the largest and highest quality black soil prairie remaining in Illinois, and one of the largest and highest quality east of the Mississippi River.
January 8, 2001
Governor Announces New High-Tech Center for ABN Amro in Chicago
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today commended ABN AMRO North America, Inc. for their announced plans to build a new high-tech office tower in Chicago's West Loop that will house most of ABN AMRO's executive offices in one location.
January 8, 2001
Ryan Launches Illinois Virtual High School
Provides expanded educational opportunities to students throughout Illinois via the internet
BRADLEY -- Governor George H. Ryan today launched the first day of classes for Illinois' newest high school, the Illinois Virtual High School, providing expanded opportunities for high school students in public and nonpublic schools, both inside and outside the classroom walls with the technology of the Internet to deliver classes to students throughout the state.
January 8, 2001
Governor Issues Disaster Declaration for Entire State Following Severe Winter Storms
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today issued a disaster declaration for the entire State of Illinois, following the cumulative effects of severe winter storms last month.
January 5, 2001
Ameritech Donates $2 Million to Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a $2 million grant from The Ameritech Foundation to fund the Ameritech Holavision Theater in the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
January 5, 2001
Illinois FIRST to Help Plug Abandoned Oil and Gas Wells
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that Illinois FIRST grants totaling $367,640 are helping to plug 92 abandoned oil and gas wells in 14 southern Illinois counties.
January 5, 2001
Ryan Approves Lakefront Improvement Plan
Soldier Field reconstruction to be financed without state dollars
CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed legislation to enhance Chicago's lakefront and rebuild historic Soldier Field. House Bill 1284, which Ryan penned at a signing ceremony at Soldier Field, authorizes the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority to issue $387 million in bonds to help finance the $587 million project
January 4, 2001
Ryan Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the following appointments to Illinois boards and commissions.
January 4, 2001
Governor Announces Support for Programs That Help Consumers Pay Overdue Heating Bills
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced grants totaling $3.2 million to expand programs that give participants the opportunity to repay delinquent utility bills.
January 3, 2001
$181,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Southwest Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $181,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago's southwest suburbs, including $100,000 to Campton Township to renovate the historic Wasco Great Western Train Depot.
January 3, 2001
$987,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $987,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in suburban Cook County, including $250,000 to the City of Northlake to reconstruct Northwest Avenue.
January 3, 2001
$1.5 million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Northern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.511 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Northern Illinois, including $495,000 to Northern Illinois University in Dekalb to help establish the Zeke Giorgi Legal Clinic.
January 3, 2001
Ryan Takes Action to Help Illinoisans Cope With Rising Home Heating Costs
Calls for investigation into recent natural gas price surge; Establishes regional meetings to highlight assistance available to consumers; Pushes legislation to expand LIHEAP
WASHINGTON, DC -- Governor George H. Ryan today took action aimed at helping Illinois consumers deal with higher home heating costs. In an effort to address the continuing increase in natural gas prices, Ryan announced a number of steps his administration will take on behalf of Illinois consumers.
January 3, 2001
$1.8 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago; Northern Suburbs
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.867 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Chicago and its northern suburbs, including $1 million to the Newberry Library, an independent research library and educational institution, to remodel and construct an addition.
January 2, 2001
Ryan's Open Land Trust Program to Protect Nature Preserve in McHenry County
SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the state has acquired 66.3 acres of land in McHenry County through the Open Land Trust Program that will protect the Lake in the Hills Fen Nature Preserve.
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