'Save Logan Correctional Center' march Oct. 13

[October 04, 2011]  A collaboration has been created between the Lincoln/Logan County Chamber of Commerce, Local 2073 of the AFSCME Council 31 union, and the Lincoln & Logan County Development Partnership in an effort to stop the closing of Logan Correctional Center and to educate the public and lawmakers on the effects of the closure.

At present, the collaboration has started a petition for local leaders, business owners and the general public to sign. The petition calls for "Governor Quinn to halt the closure of Logan Correctional Center and related cut backs to vital programs that help safeguard and sustain children and families." This effort has already proven successful, with over 1,600 signatures showing support for Logan Correctional Center staying open.

On Friday, a contingent representing the collaboration marched in the Lincoln Homecoming Parade. The group distributed candy, informational fliers, collected more signatures and sold T-shirts. Fliers had the phone number 1-888-912-5959, which will allow callers to contact their state elected officials to share their concerns and voice their opinions. All proceeds from the sale of T-shirts will go to the Save Logan Fund, which will be used to fund all efforts to stop the closure of Logan Correctional Center.

Finally, the collaborative is planning a march in an effort to show community support and the need to not close Logan Correctional Center. The march is scheduled for Oct. 13 at 4 p.m. Business leaders, elected officials, union members and the general public will meet at 1555 Fifth St. -- the chamber of commerce and economic development office -- and march to the courthouse square, where there will be a press conference to discuss the need for Logan Correctional Center, the impact a closure could have on local communities and the effect it can have on those who may lose their job.

A public hearing set by the Illinois General Assembly regarding the closing of Logan Correctional Center has been scheduled for Oct. 26 at 5 p.m. at the Lincoln Christian University chapel. The chamber of commerce is encouraging the community to come out and show their support for "Saving Logan Correctional Center."

[Text from file received]