DUQUOIN, IL, AUGUST 25, 2001 -- More than 1,800 foster and adoptive family members are expected to attend the Department of Children and Family Services' 16th Annual Foster and Adoptive Families Day at the DuQuoin State Fair.

The annual event, sponsored by Governor George H. Ryan, First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan, Fair Manager Samaline Fark and DCFS, is held on Family Day at the State Fair to honor the thousands of families throughout Southern Illinois who have opened their homes to abused and neglected children.

Foster and adoptive families attending the DuQuoin State Fair will be invited to a picnic that includes food, prizes and entertainment donated by 60 local businesses, community organizations and individuals. Some of the contributors include the Marion Pepsi Cola Bottling, General Henry Biscuit Company, Marion Elks Lodge, Knight Hawk Coal, Salem-Marion Lodge 130, Gilster-Mary Lee Corporation, and the Herrin Fire Department.

The picnic also features musical entertainment provided by "The Chosen" from Murphysboro, the Dixon Cisco Singers from Hoyleton, and singer Stacie Lynne Hines from Belkamp.

"Our families look forward to this wholesome outing for the children all year long," DCFS Director Jess McDonald said. "This is a great way for Illinois to show its thanks to the families who have opened their homes to children who need their love and protection, and to highlight the ongoing need for more people to consider becoming foster and adoptive parents."

People interested in learning more about becoming foster or adoptive parents to call the Foster Care Hotline (800-624-KIDS) and the Adoption Hotline (800-572-2390) both during and after the DuQuoin State Fair.

-- 30 --