* Technically, I’m still on vacation, but there are a few important items of note that I should point out today. First, Democratic state Rep. Kathy Ryg is stepping down and taking over as the new president for Voices for Illinois Children. From a press release…

As families face ever-increasing challenges, Voices for Illinois Children gains a new leader who shares its strong commitment to improving kids’ education, health care and economic security: State Representative Kathleen Ryg.

Voices Board Chairman Craig Culbertson announced today that Ryg will join the organization as its new president, effective Sept. 1. The move launches an ambitious new chapter for the organization, as Voices deepens and expands its efforts to confront some of the greatest fiscal challenges to good public policy in Illinois’ history.

Ryg has served Lake and northern Cook counties since 2003 as the 59th District State Representative. She is resigning that post, effective Aug. 31, upon accepting her new position as president of Voices. In addition to 20 years of public service at the state and local levels, Ryg has experience in direct counseling of persons with developmental disabilities and mental illness and administration of community-based organizations, experience she will draw on as she transitions from elected office into the leadership of this public policy and advocacy organization.

That district may now be in play. More for subscribers tomorrow.

* Gov. Pat Quinn will sign a government transparency bill into law today…

The current law forced members of the public and media to file a lawsuit if their request was denied for government records. Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan says at all levels of government, officials often ignored complaints that they’ve violated the state’s Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Madigan says the new law will make it easier for the public to access records. And for the first time, those who violate the sunshine laws could face penalties of up to $5,000. Governor Pat Quinn is expected to sign the bill later today.

* GOP gubernatorial candidate Bob Schillerstrom had some rather interesting things to say to the media the other day. The only reporter to pick up on them was Patterson…

Schillerstrom also said lawmakers should consider a gasoline tax increase [rather than video poker to help fund the capital construction program], and he would be open to discussing raising alcohol taxes and vehicle fees even higher to get video poker off the table.

Schillerstrom has made his opposition to the video poker plan a centerpiece of his campaign, but now he’s on record in favor of considering tax hikes instead.

* And, FYI a few of us are meeting downtown at Miller’s Pub at 4 o’clock or so in preparation for tonight’s White Sox game.