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.

"I want to commend you for being committed to keeping our world's markets open and for serving clients like the state of Illinois, even in the face of great tragedy," said Governor Ryan in an address to Morgan Stanley's Municipal Bond Traders. "It is this kind of strength that is an inspiration to Americans and sends a powerful message to those that seek to destroy our nation."

On September 20, Governor Ryan announced that the state moved forward in the sale of $110 million in Build Illinois refunding bonds, a transaction that had been put on hold in light of the terrorist attacks. Illinois and Ohio were the first states to reenter the bond trading market after the tragedy. The monies from the sale of these bonds in part funds Governor Ryan's Illinois FIRST program.

"We are rebuilding Illinois to be better than ever - and with our improved infrastructure, we will be better prepared for whatever may be ahead," Governor Ryan added. "Our Illinois FIRST program is now providing a great economic stimulus in communities across the state. You have made sure that the money we borrow is at the lowest cost possible so that these dollars really stretch."

Governor Ryan first attended a breakfast meeting with investment bankers at Morgan Stanley's offices before visiting the trading floor. Governor Ryan also met with a representative of Fitch, one of the rating agencies that rates the state's bonds to discuss the measures he has taken to make sure that the state's finances continue to stay healthy.

Yesterday, while in New York, Governor Ryan met with Governor Pataki, Mayor Giuliani and employees of the Aon Corporation including its CEO Pat Ryan. Governor Ryan also toured "Ground Zero."