Senator Roland W. Burris RSS 2.0 Feed

Senator Roland W. Burris Statement on the Confirmation of Elena Kagan to the United States Supreme Court

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2010
Contact: Jim O'Connor, 202-224-2854

Senator Roland W. Burris Statement on the Confirmation of Elena Kagan to the United States Supreme Court

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Senator Roland W. Burris issued the following statement on the confirmation of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court:

'It is with great pride that I congratulate Elena Kagan on her confirmation to the United States Supreme Court. The America we are living in today must have leaders with a new, independent voice, who are not afraid to stand on the side of fairness and reason; and that is precisely what Justice Kagan brings to the table.

'Justice Kagan has made great strides in the legal profession and has a background rich in diverse experiences and a track record for success. That is why I am confident she is fully capable of navigating the inner workings of our legal system in order to guard the sanctity of the Constitution.

'Ms. Kagan's confirmation is founded on the experience, integrity, and dedication to justice she has exhibited throughout her career and for that I unreservedly welcome her into this tremendous time in our nation?s history.'

###

Naperville Grid Modernization Project Named One of '100 Recovery Act Projects that are Changing America'

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2010
Contact: Audrey Till, 312-886-3506

Naperville Grid Modernization Project Named One of '100 Recovery Act Projects that are Changing America'

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- United States Senator Roland W. Burris today announced that Naperville's grid modernization project has been named one of '100 Recovery Act Projects that are Changing America'.

The City of Naperville, Illinois was awarded an $11 million Smart Grid Investment Grant from the Department of Energy to deploy more than 57,000 smart meters and install the infrastructure and software necessary to support and integrate various smart grid functions and the two-way flow of information between the utility and its customers. The project will complete the automation of the city?s electric grid, providing automatic, computerized meter readings in real-time, enabling streamlined customer billing and increased billing accuracy. The smart meters will provide residents and businesses more information about their energy use, allowing them to analyze and adjust their energy use patterns, save energy and manage their electric bills. The city estimates it will create over 70 jobs over the life of the project.

'Grid modernization projects like the one taking place in Naperville are important ways to improve the economy, create jobs, and get our country's electric systems on track, while also working to lead our country away from dependence on non-renewable energy,? said Senator Burris. 'I am pleased that such an innovative Recovery Act project has been implemented right here in Naperville, Illinois, and I look forward to seeing improvements made to Naperville?s electronic grid during the coming months.'
Senator Burris and the Democratic-led Congress passed the 2009 American Reinvestment and Recovery Act that was signed into law by President Obama in February of last year.

###

U.S. Senator Roland W. Burris Statement on Mayor Richard M. Daley's Decision Not to Seek Re-election

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2010
Contact: Audrey Till, 312-886-3506

U.S. Senator Roland W. Burris Statement on Mayor Richard M. Daley's Decision Not to Seek Re-election

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Roland W. Burris issued the following statement on Mayor Daley's decision not to seek re-election:

"During his 21 years as mayor of the City of Chicago, Richard Daley served his community with devotion and tireless effort, working to transform Chicago into the first-rate city that it is today. After a career spanning four decades, Mayor Daley's dedication and leadership can be seen in schools, businesses, and communities across the City of Chicago. Mayor Daley will be sorely missed, but his legacy will continue to thrive and carry on through his beloved city."

###

U.S. Senator Roland W. Burris to hold Small Business Panel Discussion and Expo on Friday, September 10

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2010
Contact: Audrey Till, (312) 886-3506

U.S. Senator Roland W. Burris to hold Small Business Panel Discussion and Expo on Friday, September 10

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senator Roland W. Burris will host a Small Business Panel Discussion and Expo, 'Revitalizing and Refreshing Illinois? Small Business Community' on Friday, September 10 from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Chicago State University.

This event is an opportunity for small businesses to meet with distinguished leaders in business and government from communities across the state of Illinois to discuss federal assistance programs, as opportunities for small businesses to obtain loans through the federal government. The event will feature a panel discussion with remarks from Senator Burris and Eric Dobyne, Chicago Regional Director of the Minority Business Development Agency moderating the event; representatives from Banks; and representatives from primes including Boeing, Hewlett Packard and General Dynamics. An expo will be held for the duration of the event, featuring booths from various federal agencies including the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, Veterans Affairs, Labor, and Energy, as well as the Small Business Administration.

This forum is free of charge. Discounted parking is available.

For more information, please call Frank McClatchey or Jazmine Hasty at (312) 886-3506.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

9 AM - 2 PM Senator Burris Small Business Forum: 'Revitalizing and Refreshing Illinois? Small Business Community'
Chicago State University
New Academic Library Auditorium (4th Floor)
9501 South King Drive
Chicago, IL 60628

###

Senator Roland W. Burris Statement on President Obama?s Remarks at Fort Bliss

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 2010
Contact: Jim O'Connor, 202-224-2854

Senator Roland W. Burris Statement on President Obama?s Remarks at Fort Bliss

Senator Roland W. Burris issued the following statement tonight in response to President Obama's speech on the end of combat phase in Iraq:

'Tonight, President Obama spoke to the nation about the end of the combat phase in Iraq. I join President Obama, my fellow Senators and my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee in expressing my gratitude and support to all the men and women in uniform who have fought courageously to ensure America's security and to help Iraq create a better future for itself.

'While we begin to see American troops leaving Iraq, it is important to remember that there is still work to be done during this period of transition. We must strive to protect the aid workers, civilians and diplomats still remaining in Iraq who are working to rebuild the country. We also have a responsibility to ensure that our wounded warriors are receiving the care they deserve so that they can better transition back into life at home. Finally, we still have a difficult road ahead of us in Afghanistan, but I am confident that under the leadership of our Commander-in-Chief, we will successfully complete that mission as well.

'I salute President Obama and commend him for his courageous leadership, as well as the thousands of troops who fought so hard and sacrificed so much to bring us to this point. This is a proud moment for our nation and I respectfully welcome home our troops.'

###

'Republican Obstruction Slows Long Awaited Civil Rights Gains,' says Burris

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 6, 2010
Contact: Jim O?Connor, 202-224-2854

'Republican Obstruction Slows Long Awaited Civil Rights Gains,' says Burris

Washington, DC --Senator Roland W. Burris issued the following statement today, after the settlement of Pigford II and Cobell lawsuits for minority farmers and Native American trust account holders were blocked for the sixth time this year:

'I am terribly disappointed the Pigford II and Cobell settlements were not immediately passed last night. For far too long, Republican obstruction has slowed long awaited civil rights gains and brought justice for these farmers to a standstill.

'Legislation has failed to address the problem, and as a result the number of black farmers in Illinois continues to decline. The bill will help make right this history of discrimination by one of our own government agencies and put an end to this long-standing practice of prejudice.

'I challenge my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to join us in our fight to right wrongs and ensure a fairer America for everyone. I hope when the bill reaches the floor for a second time in September we will hold politics at bay and work side by side to cure this injustice.'

In 1997, a group of black farmers led by Tim Pigford of North Carolina filed a class action lawsuit against the USDA. In all, 22,000 farmers were granted access to the lawsuit, and in 1999, the government admitted wrongdoing and agreed to a $2.3 billion settlement -- the largest civil rights settlement in history.

However, an estimated 9 out of 10 farmer's claims were dismissed on technicalities. Since then, the number of black farmers has steadily declined. Set to expand this settlement to those who were excluded, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack declared 'A New Civil Rights Era at USDA,' and has agreed on a settlement known as Pigford II. Last night, the settlement of the Pigford II lawsuit was blocked for the sixth time this year.

###

Senator Roland W. Burris Attends White House Ceremony Honoring Recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 4, 2010
Jim O'Connor, 202-224-2854

Senator Roland W. Burris Attends White House Ceremony Honoring Recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal
Two Illinois citizens honored with prestigious medal for exceptional service in their communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- United States Senator Roland W. Burris today attended a White House ceremony recognizing Chicago residents Daisy M. Brooks and Lisa Nigro, upon their receipt of the prestigious Presidential Citizens Medal. The Presidential Citizens Medal was established 40 years ago to recognize American citizens who have provided outstanding service to their country or fellow citizens, and is one of the highest citizen medals the President can bestow.

'I am deeply honored to see two Illinois citizens receive this important award,? said Senator Burris. ?The actions of both Ms. Brooks and Ms. Nigro exemplify everything the medal stands for: courage, self-sacrifice, and service. From sheltering homeless teens to feeding the hungry, these modern day heroes saw the need in their communities and made a decision to take action. The changes Ms. Brooks and Ms. Nigro have brought to their communities is immeasurable and I honor these two women for their admirable service to our nation.'

About the recipients:

Daisy M. Brooks, Chicago, IL
When a pregnant teenager with no place to stay arrived at her door, Daisy Brooks welcomed the young woman in. What followed was a lifelong commitment to helping many of North Chicago?s young mothers and their infants. Brooks opened Daisy's Resource and Developmental Center to serve as a dormitory, school, and catalyst for young women to improve their lives. Brooks receives the Citizens Medal for offering guidance and support to young women across Chicago.

Lisa Nigro, Chicago, IL
Beginning with a wagon full of coffee and sandwiches, Lisa Nigro?s mission to aid those living on the streets of Chicago has inspired us all. Her wagon gave way to a restaurant for homeless men and women, expanding with partner organizations to provide housing, job training, and vital support to Chicagoans affected by poverty. Nigro receives the Citizens Medal for her tireless service to her fellow citizens.

###

Senator Roland Burris Applauds Selection of Illinois as a 'Race to the Top' Finalist

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:07:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, United States Senator Roland W. Burris applauded the selection of Illinois as one of 19 finalists for the second round of funding from the U.S. Department of Education's 'Race to the Top' grant program. More than $3 billion will be made available for the winners of the second round of competition.

"In this time of budget cuts and short falls, this announcement brings Illinois and our schools closer to being provided much needed federal funds to improve our state's education system," said Senator Burris. "This award would help ensure that schools throughout the state are provided the resources they need so students in the classroom can receive the first-rate education they deserve."

The finalists chosen today will travel to Washington during the week of August 9 to present their plans to the peer reviewers who scored their applications. After the state's presentations and an extended question-and-answer period, the peer reviewers will finalize their scores and comments.

'Race to the Top' is a $4.35 billion competitive grant program funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) that aims to inspire education reform and increase student success throughout the country.

###

Senator Roland Burris Applauds Selection of Illinois as a 'Race to the Top' Finalist

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 27, 2010
Contact: Jim O'Connor, 202-224-2854

Senator Roland Burris Applauds Selection of Illinois as a 'Race to the Top' Finalist

WASHINGTON, D.C. --Today, United States Senator Roland W. Burris applauded the selection of Illinois as one of 19 finalists for the second round of funding from the U.S. Department of Education's 'Race to the Top' grant program. More than $3 billion will be made available for the winners of the second round of competition.

"In this time of budget cuts and short falls, this announcement brings Illinois and our schools closer to being provided much needed federal funds to improve our state?s education system,' said Senator Burris. 'This award would help ensure that schools throughout the state are provided the resources they need so students in the classroom can receive the first-rate education they deserve.'

The finalists chosen today will travel to Washington during the week of August 9 to present their plans to the peer reviewers who scored their applications. After the state?s presentations and an extended question-and-answer period, the peer reviewers will finalize their scores and comments.

'Race to the Top' is a $4.35 billion competitive grant program funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) that aims to inspire education reform and increase student success throughout the country.

###

Burris Resolution Honoring the Montford Marines Passes Senate by Unanimous Consent

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2010
Jim O'Connor, 202-224-2854

Burris Resolution Honoring the Montford Marines Passes Senate by Unanimous Consent

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- On July 22nd, a resolution introduced by United States Senator Roland W. Burris passed the United States Senate by unanimous consent. S.Res.587 recognizes and honors the legacy of African-Americans in the United States Marine Corps and designates August 26, 2010 as Montford Point Marines Day.

'As we approach the 68th anniversary of the first day African-American recruits began training at Montford Point training camp, it is with great pride that I see this resolution pass,' said Senator Burris.

'The heroism and commitment demonstrated by the Montford Point Marines forever changed the culture of the Montford Point training camp?uniting the camp and inspiring the service of future generations of African-Americans in the United States Marine Corps. The sacrifices, dedication to country, and perseverance of the African-American Marines trained at Montford Point Camp should never be forgotten.'

Between 1942 and 1949 approximately 20,000 African-American Marines received basic training at Montford Point after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a Presidential Directive integrating the United States Marine Corps. By September 1949, the Montford Marine Camp was deactivated, ending 7 years of segregation in the Marine Corps. Despite unwarranted stereotypes, the African-American Marines who trained at Montford Point became known as the Montford Point Marines due to their brave and honorable service. S.Res.587, Montford Point Marines Day, honors their service and sacrifice.

###

Burris Resolution Honoring the Montford Marines Passes Senate by Unanimous Consent

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:07:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On July 22nd, a resolution introduced by United States Senator Roland W. Burris passed the United States Senate by unanimous consent. S.Res.587 recognizes and honors the legacy of African-Americans in the United States Marine Corps and designates August 26, 2010 as Montford Point Marines Day.

"As we approach the 68th anniversary of the first day African-American recruits began training at Montford Point training camp, it is with great pride that I see this resolution pass," said Senator Burris. "The heroism and commitment demonstrated by the Montford Point Marines forever changed the culture of the Montford Point training camp -- uniting the camp and inspiring the service of future generations of African-Americans in the United States Marine Corps. The sacrifices, dedication to country, and perseverance of the African-American Marines trained at Montford Point Camp should never be forgotten."

Between 1942 and 1949 approximately 20,000 African-American Marines received basic training at Montford Point after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a Presidential Directive integrating the United States Marine Corps. By September 1949, the Montford Marine Camp was deactivated, ending 7 years of segregation in the Marine Corps. Despite unwarranted stereotypes, the African-American Marines who trained at Montford Point became known as the Montford Point Marines due to their brave and honorable service. S.Res.587, Montford Point Marines Day, honors their service and sacrifice.

###

Senator Roland Burris Hosts Climate Change Exhibit

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:07:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Senator Roland Burris Hosts Climate Change Exhibit

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- This week United States Senator Roland W. Burris will host The Faces of Climate Change-- an exhibit sponsored by the National Wildlife Federation. The exhibit, which boasts an impressive collection of photos and quotes from communities across our nation about the challenges of climate change, will run from Monday, June 28 - Friday July 2, 2010 in the Russell Senate Office Building Rotunda.

"I am honored to host an exhibit that highlights one of the most important environmental issues our country is facing today,' said Senator Burris. "Climate change is real and will pose a significant threat to our future if we do not take action. The need for environmental awareness is critical to the health of our citizens, the growth of our economy, and most importantly the long term sustainability of our planet."

"We must be good stewards of our environment by seeking sustainable ways to harness our natural resources and investing in alternative energy. Doing these things can end our dependence on foreign oil and ensure a better quality of life for ourselves and our children."

The Faces of Climate Change exhibit is open to members, staff and constituents.

###

Background of The Faces of Climate Change

In the fall of 2009, The National Wildlife Federation conducted a national photo contest titled, The Faces of Climate Change. The goal of the contest was to collect diverse images of climate change impacts and solutions, and use them to paint a picture of what climate change means to people from communities across our country and the world.
NWF received almost 150 submissions, creating a photo banner that highlights the contest winners. The exhibit in the Russell Rotunda displays the photo banner, several other photos submitted during the contest, and other photos obtained from individuals and organizations in NWF?s network. Additionally, NWF reached out to prominent figures from partner organizations providing powerful quotes to accompany the photos.

Senator Burris 'Confident' in Kagan Nomination to Supreme Court

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 00:10:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2010
Contact: Jim O'Connor, 202-224-2854

Senator Burris 'Confident' in Kagan Nomination to Supreme Court

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, United States Senator Roland W. Burris voiced support for the nomination of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court.

'Earlier this week, I met with Solicitor General Elena Kagan in my office,? said Sen. Burris. After speaking with her, I am confident she will be a worthy addition to the Supreme Court. General Kagan?s legal training is second to none, and her diverse experience will bring added depth to the highest court in the land.'

'In the last few months, the nominee has offered thoughtful testimony, and proved herself to be a woman of powerful intellect and sound judgment.'

'As the current U.S. Solicitor General and a former Associate White House Counsel, she possesses a keen understanding of current issues, and a strong commitment to the values of public service. More importantly, she will be the first Justice in many years who was not elevated from a lesser court. I believe this will lend fresh perspective to the highest judicial body in the land. It will bring new diversity to the Supreme Court-- and help to build debate, rather than consensus.'

'As we move forward in one of the most trying and transformative periods in our countries history, it is with great pleasure that I stand in support of Solicitor General Elena Kagan. I urge my friends on both sides of the aisle to join me in supporting her timely confirmation.'

###

Senator Burris 'Confident' in Kagan Nomination to Supreme Court

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:07:00 GMT

Senator Burris 'Confident' in Kagan Nomination to Supreme Court

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, United States Senator Roland W. Burris voiced support for the nomination of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court.

"Earlier this week, I met with Solicitor General Elena Kagan in my office,' said Sen. Burris. After speaking with her, I am confident she will be a worthy addition to the Supreme Court. General Kagan's legal training is second to none, and her diverse experience will bring added depth to the highest court in the land."

"In the last few months, the nominee has offered thoughtful testimony, and proved herself to be a woman of powerful intellect and sound judgment."

"As the current U.S. Solicitor General and a former Associate White House Counsel, she possesses a keen understanding of current issues, and a strong commitment to the values of public service. More importantly, she will be the first Justice in many years who was not elevated from a lesser court. I believe this will lend fresh perspective to the highest judicial body in the land. It will bring new diversity to the Supreme Court-- and help to build debate, rather than consensus."

"As we move forward in one of the most trying and transformative periods in our countries history, it is with great pleasure that I stand in support of Solicitor General Elena Kagan. I urge my friends on both sides of the aisle to join me in supporting her timely confirmation."

###

Senator Roland W. Burris Statement on the Passing of Senator Robert C. Byrd

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:06:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - United States Senator Roland W. Burris today issued the following statement on the passing of Senator Robert C. Byrd:

"Early this morning, our nation lost an icon and a national treasure. I was deeply saddened to hear of Senator Robert C. Byrd's passing, and offer my heartfelt condolences to his friends and loved ones in this difficult time. For decades, Sen. Byrd faithfully served the people of West Virginia. He became a legend in his own time, and in many ways came to embody the institution of the United States Senate. As a leader, and as guardian of this chamber's procedure and tradition, Sen. Byrd was without equal. His legacy of public service, and his remarkable journey from West Virginia coal country into the annals of history, should serve as an inspiration to us all."

###

Senator Roland Burris Statement on President Obama's Decision to Relieve General McChrystal of His Command

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:06:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Armed Services Committee member Senator Roland W. Burris issued the following statement following President Obama's decision to relieve General Stanley McChrystal of his command in Afghanistan:

"As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I fully support the Commander in Chief's decision to relieve General McChrystal of his command in Afghanistan," said Senator Burris. "General McChrystal has given years of loyal service to our country and to our troops, and I salute his service and sacrifice in defense of our nation. I also congratulate General David Petraeus on his nomination to lead the war in Afghanistan,, and I have full confidence that once approved by the Senate, he will continue to carry out this critical mission."

###

Senator Burris Announces $9.6 Million Contract for Construction of New Facility at the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:06:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senate Armed Services Committee member Senator Roland W. Burris today announced that JM Industrial Supply Inc./River City Construction LLC Joint Venture in Peoria has been awarded a $9.6 million federal contract to build a state-of-the-art operations facility at the Illinois Air National Guard's 182nd Airlift Wing.

The facility is designed to be around 27,700 square feet and will accommodated the following C-130 Hercules operation functions: weapons and tactics, intelligence, briefing/debriefing, standardization/evaluation, flight planning, flight safety, flight records, physical training, life support, survival equipment including space to repair parachutes, life rafts, and other emergency gear; scheduling; unit administration; aircrew chemical warfare equipment; base command post; base operations; and transient passenger waiting area. The project will incorporate Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and sustainable development concepts, so as to achieve optimum resource efficiency, constructability, sustainability, and energy conservation, while minimizing adverse impacts to the built and natural environments through all phases of its lifecycle.

"With this funding, the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria will upgrade its facilities and operations so it can continue to protect citizens in Illinois and across the country from threats abroad," said Senator Burris. "This new facility will not only enhance operational capacity and efficiency, but will also provide much needed construction jobs for local residents and help bolster the local economy."

Construction is scheduled to begin around July 2010 and should be completed by November 2011.

###

Senator Roland W. Burris Announces Grant Funding to Fight Homelessness among Veterans in Illinois

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:06:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Roland W. Burris today announced that grant funding from the Department of Labor's Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) is going to Illinois to fight homelessness among veterans by providing job training programs.

Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis announced yesterday that 97 grants, totaling more than $24 million, will be awarded to approximately 14,000 veterans across the country. Funds are being awarded on a competitive basis to state and local workforce investment boards, local public agencies and nonprofit organizations, including faith-based and community organizations.

The funds for Illinois are being directed as follows:

-    Chicago: $300,000 to The Inner Voice, Inc.

-    Peoria: $200,000 to Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois

-    Woodstock: $299,154 to Transitional Living Services, Inc.

"As a member of the Veterans Affairs Committee in the Senate, I am pleased to see that we are continuing our efforts to combat homelessness among veterans by providing them valuable job training programs," said Senator Burris. "This announcement serves as a chance to give back to those who sacrificed so much for us. Through these grants we hope to afford our veterans the opportunity to achieve professional and personal success here in Illinois."

Through the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program, homeless veterans may receive occupational, classroom and on-the-job training, as well as job search placement assistance, including follow-up services.

Department of Labor's Programs for Veterans
www.dol.gov/vets

###

Senator Roland W. Burris Announces Public Broadcasting Grant Awards for Illinois

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:06:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - United States Senator Roland W. Burris today announced that $105,326 in grant funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) will be allocated to public broadcasting stations in Charleston and Peoria, IL to fund enhancements to station operations.

The funds are being directed as follows:

- $95,000 to WEIU-FM in Charleston, IL: According to the station, "This is a digital conversion project for WEIU-FM in Charleston, IL in partnership with WILL-FM (Urbana). WILL and WEIU have come together to form a unique collaboration in the Illinois Public Media Community. WILL-FM will support the conversion of WEIU's main transmitter. In turn, WEIU will put WILL's programming on the additional digital channels (HD2 & HD3). The agreement is designed to extend WILL-FM's news and classical music services to an underserved area, while also being an exemplary way for public stations to work together."

- $10,326 to WTVP-TV in Peoria, IL: According to the station, "This project includes the purchase of equipment, critical to meeting minimum FCC requirements, which will allow the station to provide closed captioning services to their deaf community. The stations master control operates an HD primary channel and additional equipment is needed to monitor the on-air demodulated signal and to convert HD produced content which will be aired in SD."

"I am pleased that funds from the CPB are headed to Illinois to support public broadcasting updates and improvements," said Senator Burris. "It is important that we continue to provide support to public broadcasting stations so they can continue to deliver innovative and educational content to consumers across the country."

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) is awarding over $11 million in digital conversion grants to local public television and radio stations across the country. These funds are part of the almost $350 million in funding that Congress has provided to CPB since 2001 to help both public television and radio stations to convert from analog to digital broadcasting.

A special appropriation from Congress to CPB ($36 million in Fiscal Year 2010) helps local public broadcasters purchase the equipment necessary to provide this public service.

Corporation for Public Broadcasting
www.cpb.org

###

Senator Roland Burris Sponsors Legislation Recognizing Juneteenth Independence Day

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:06:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Roland W. Burris introduced a Senate Resolution this week to recognize and honor the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day. Senator Burris' legislation, S. Res. 159, passed with unanimous consent.

Although President Lincoln's signing of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863 officially ended slavery in the Confederate states, many slaves had yet to learn of their freedom. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved African-Americans were now free. Juneteenth Independence Day recognizes the historical significance of this day and stands as a reminder to communities across our nation of the promise of the American dream.

"Over the past 144 years, Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations have been held to honor African-American freedom," said Senator Burris. "It is a day of reflection - a day to remember those who came before, who fought and suffered and died. It is up to each one of us to ensure that our sons and daughters know an America that is even more free, more fair, and more equal than the America we live in today. I hope my colleagues and citizens across the United States will join me in celebrating this historic occasion."

S. Res. 159 is cosponsored by Senators Carl Levin (D-MI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Dick Lugar (R-IN).

###