 The caucus will promote legislation and budgets that ensure the
taxpayers of Illinois get the most from their state's unique
heritage. Leading the caucus, which last met in 2010, are Sen.
Pamela Althoff, R-McHenry; Sen. Andy Manar, D-Bunker Hill; Rep. Rich
Brauer, R-Springfield; and Rep. Jerry Costello II, D-Smithton.
"Our history in Illinois is rich, and our sites and structures
should be preserved and appreciated," Althoff said. "The kind of
economic development that stems from our historical sites and
structures is valuable. The caucus recognizes and will work to
promote that."
Manar added: "Illinois' historic sites are vital to our state's
heritage and connect our citizens to the generations that came
before them. It is important that we not only preserve these sites,
but actively promote our rich heritage."
The revival of the caucus was announced during National
Preservation Month, when groups around the country remind the public
of the economic, educational and entertainment value of historic
sites. This year's theme for National Preservation Month is "See!
Save! Celebrate!"
Last year, some 2.2 million people visited historic sites
operated by the state of Illinois. Others visited different spots
with historic connections -- cruising along Route 66 perhaps or
enjoying towns in the Illinois Main Street program.
"It's wonderful to see so many members of the General Assembly
bringing their energy and ideas to the task of protecting history,"
said Amy Martin, director of the Illinois Historic Preservation
Agency. "I'm confident they'll make the caucus an important voice on
behalf of all Illinoisans."
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The state's heritage includes major buildings, like the Old State
Capitol and Ulysses S. Grant's home. But it also includes entire
neighborhoods, from the industrial Pullman Historic District in
Chicago to clusters of beautiful homes in communities across the
state. And business districts in many cities and towns remain
healthy because they emphasize their roots and architecture.
The objectives of the caucus are to strengthen and preserve
Illinois historic structures, resources and sites; help educate and
motivate the public on the importance of maintaining our heritage;
and make Illinois a more attractive place for people to visit, live
and work.
"Abraham Lincoln, of course, is the biggest name in Illinois
history, but our story goes far beyond one man or one part of the
state," Brauer added.
"This caucus represents an opportunity to continue raising
awareness of our state's history and the economic impact historic
sites and structures can have if they're supported properly,"
Costello said.
Landmarks Illinois will join the Illinois Historic Preservation
Agency in providing advice and expertise as legislators study the
best ways to protect and promote history.
"We look forward to collaborating with the Historic Preservation
Caucus to identify policy initiatives and incentives that will
enhance the social and financial value of these irreplaceable assets
in our communities," said Bonnie McDonald, president of Landmarks
Illinois.
[Text from file received from the
Illinois Historic Preservation Agency] |
