A prototype of a unique construction panel, specially made in Ridgway Illinois, is on its way to Australia for further testing. It's used to make buildings stronger and is made by Levee Lock. State Senator Dale Fowler says the panels are the result of top of the line engineering.
"It's a concrete-like substance and it has a styrofoam panel on the inside, it's actually earthquake proof, hurricane proof, fire-resistant."
Senator Fowler says the panels are built by Strata Manufacturing in Ridgway, one of only two places in the country where this is made.
Senator Fowler says this product is one of many manufactured in southern Illinois.
"Oil dry in Mounds, as an example that produces kitty litter that's sold all over the nation. And not only that the job opportunities that lie in these businesses. These businesses are always looking for good people."
Fowler spearheads the southern Illinois made Expo, which is held annually and was instrumental in getting the Cairo Port Project jump-started.
