Homer Glen, IL – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13th) today joined Homer Glen Mayor Jim Daley, Ronald McDonald, area students, and other village officials to celebrate Earth Hour, during which residents, businesses, and municipalities turned off lights from 8:30 to 9:30 pm to show their support for protecting the environment.  The celebration was hosted by McDonald’s in Homer Glen, one of 2,848 cities, towns and municipalities in 84 countries that are participating.  Other participants include Naperville and Aurora.
 
           “I’m thrilled to join Mayor Daley and other Homer Glen residents in celebrating this world-wide green initiative.  Earth Hour is a great opportunity to raise awareness about the need for clean, renewable energy alternatives,” said Biggert, a senior member of the House Science and Technology Committee.  “Our environment and economic prosperity depend on our reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources.  That’s why it’s so important to promote research and development on alternatives like hydrogen, geothermal, and clean coal technologies.”
 
           Biggert and Daley turned off the lights while diners ate by candlelight and showcased the efforts of local students to raise awareness of climate change, including creative posters.  Homer Glen was one of the first communities to sign on to support Earth Hour, and Biggert is the sponsor of a resolution, H. Res. 268, in the U.S. House of Representatives recognizing the initiative. 
 
           “As a flag ship community representing small town U.S.A., Homer Glen is honored to have Congresswoman Biggert choose our community in which to celebrate Earth Hour 2009,” stated Mayor Jim Daley. 
 
           Biggert and Daley together turned off the lights with a giant ceremonial switch while participants ate free ice cream cones purchased with coupons distributed by Ronald McDonald.  Over 60 Homer Glen businesses participated in the event last year, leading to a 7% drop in energy consumption, according to ComEd.  The event also darkened some of the world’s most famous skylines and icons, including the Empire State Building, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Coliseum in Rome and the Sears Tower.  Google’s homepage even went dark for the day.  This year, organizers hope for even greater results. 
 
           “Protecting the environment must be an international priority,” said Biggert.  “And this worldwide initiative event helps bring much-needed attention to the issue.”
 
           Earlier today Biggert joined representatives of the World Wildlife Fund, ComEd and other officials for a media briefing in Chicago encouraging residents and local businesses to participate in Earth Hour, recognizing the importance of fighting climate change, and addressing the importance of advancing energy alternatives.  For more information, visit www.EarthHourUS.org.

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