$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.

Funds will be used to re-roof the historic facility to prevent water damage to its lavishly restored ceiling and walls.

This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Jack McGuire, D-Joliet.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $20,000 to the Manteno Community Fire Protection District to purchase equipment, including a thermal imaging camera.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Phil Novak, D-Bradley.

• $12,000 to Kankakee County Senior Citizens, Inc., to assist in its operating costs.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Mary K. O'Brien, D-Coal City.

• $5,000 to Christmas Day, Inc., to provide free Christmas dinners for senior citizens at three area locations.
  This project was initiated by Novak.