[Today’s Date]



Honorable Governor Rod Blagojevich
207 State House
Springfield, IL 62706

Dear Governor Blagojevich:

It is crucial that the State of Illinois provide our citizens places of recreation and to acknowledge the importance of historical sites.  The closing of the Channahon State Park is taking away more than a mere piece of turf from the citizens of Channahon and the many people who come to visit our park.  This park is an intricate connection to the I & M Canal bike trail and the unique history of Channahon and Illinois.

Illinois state parks provide a perfect resource for recreation, fitness and an appreciation for the outdoors.  It is these types of resources that provide healthy options for our youth to engage in productive activities, a place for our senior citizens to continue to be active and a haven for all of the citizens to utilize in leading active healthy lives.  People come to this park, because of all that it offers.  Hiking, biking, camping and fishing are just a few of the activities enjoyed in this historical site.  

The Channahon State Park is located adjacent to the I & M Canal bike trail and plays an intricate part in the accessibility and functionality of this trail.  It offers parking, restrooms, picnicking, camping areas and more to the citizens using the trail.  There is not another site, near to the vicinity, that offers all of these facilities and at such a crucial point along the I & M Canal trail.  The I & M Canal is 160 years old and has been a great source of pride and history for the area.  The Channahon State Park is vital to the functionality of this historic landmark and recreational site.  

The Village of Channahon and the people who travel from many communities to enjoy the Channahon State Park will be adversely affected by its closing.  The closing of the Channahon State Park will permanently alter a way of life for the businesses and citizens of Channahon and all those who enjoy recreation in this area.

Sincerely,



[Your name here]