Governor and First Lady Host Halloween at Executive Mansion

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor and Mrs. Ryan invite all kindergarten through sixth grade elementary children to visit the Illinois Executive Mansion for the annual "No Tricks-Just Treats!" Halloween festivities on Sunday, October 29, 2000 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

"It is always such a delight to see the creative costumes of the children," said Mrs. Ryan. "It is a great opportunity for the children to spend time at the mansion, learn a little history, and have some fun."

The Halloween activities will begin at the Illinois State Museum at noon where costumed children can spend the afternoon enjoying magic tricks and hands-on Halloween activities.

Every hour there will be new and exciting programs in the State Museum's Auditorium. The cost to participate at the Museum is $2 for children 12 and younger, and accompanying adults are free. These festivities are from noon until 4 p.m. The Illinois State Museum is located at the corner of Spring and Edward Streets.

At 4:00 p.m. there will be a "Parade of Costumes" from the Museum to the Illinois Executive Mansion. Mrs. Ryan will be joined by costumed characters to greet the children and their parents at the door of the Mansion.

The children will be invited to walk through pumpkin filled halls to the dining room where they will each receive a bag of Halloween candy.

The Illinois Candy Distributors and Manufacturers have sponsored the Executive Mansion's "No Tricks - Just Treats!" for the past twelve years. IATCD representative Harry L. Kelley states, "The distributors across Illinois and I are thrilled with the opportunity to once again hold this worthwhile family event at the beautiful Executive Mansion. We thank the many manufacturers who have donated their product to continue this safe, fun and traditional event."

The Mansion is located at 410 East Jackson Street. The festivities at the Mansion require no entrance fee. The mansion will be closed on Halloween night, October 31, 2000.