Quinn Announces Proceeds from Special Edition Calendar

CHICAGO-Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn today announced the proceeds from the special edition 2005 Illinois Military Family Relief Fund calendar presented by U.S. Cellular and created by the winners of the statewide "U.S. Cellular Coloring Contest."

Quinn was joined by one of the winners, Hailey Becker, 7, and her parents, Illinois Army National Guard Major Jeffery Becker and wife Aimee. Her picture of her father was selected as the cover of the calendar. A native of North Aurora, Major Becker recently returned from a yearlong deployment in Iraq.

The participants in the contest were children ages 3-14 whose parents or other close family members are serving in the military. The contest asked them to draw a picture depicting why they are proud to have a relative serving our country.

"Through their artwork these children have shown loving support of their family members who are serving our country," said Quinn. "Their drawings reflect the gratitude and encouragement that all of our servicemembers deserve."

Quinn was joined by Conrad Hunter and Leon Henson of U.S. Cellular who presented the check.

The Illinois Military Family Relief Fund assists the families of Illinois National Guard members and reservists called to active duty who may be facing financial hardships with expenses such as rent, groceries, or utility bills. The Fund has already distributed more than $2.7 million to more than 5,000 Illinois military families. Inspired by Illinois' model, nine states have created their own military family relief fund and another 24 states are now considering it.

To find out ways to help the troops or to donate on-line, visit www.OperationHomefront.org. With nearly 10 million hits, it is one of the country's most informative websites regarding U.S. troops.