Barbara Flynn Currie.

February 9, 2009

CHICAGO – State Rep. Barbara Flynn Currie, D-Chicago, received a legislative award from Friends of the Parks at its 34th Annual Meeting on Thursday for her efforts in the Illinois legislature to improve and protect Chicago parks.

“Chicago is renowned for its world-class schools, arts, and culture, but our parks are also one of our city’s magnificent jewels,” Currie said. “Hundreds of selfless volunteers work hard day after day and year after year to make sure Chicagoans can enjoy the outdoors and preserve open spaces for future generations.”

Friends of the Parks recognized Currie for her work in helping to secure $725,000 for improvements to Nash Park, Jackson Park, the South Shore Cultural Center, and Burnham Park. On Wednesday, Gov. Pat Quinn signed into law a supplemental spending bill that returns $9.25 million to the state Department of Natural Resources and prevents the loss of more than $15 million in federal funding. The bill restores funding to six state conservation funds, including the Illinois Habitat Endowment Trust Fund and the Illinois Habitat Fund. Currie, who serves as majority leader in the House, helped ensure passage of the bill in the General Assembly.

“The state of Illinois faces a number of significant challenges in meeting its obligations to its citizens,” Currie said. “As we work through many tough issues, including stimulating a sluggish economy, we cannot forget the importance of protecting our natural environment. We have worked hard together to make Chicago a city that places a high value on both economic strength and environmental protection. We must not let up in our efforts.”

Friends of the Parks is a non-profit park advocacy organization that works to protect, preserve and improve parks and forest preserves in Chicago. Friends of the Parks builds stronger communities by empowering Chicagoans to take ownership of their neighborhood parks through volunteer activities and civic engagement. For more information, visit www.fotp.org.