Burris announces state-wide 'listening tour'

SPRINGFIELD -- Sen. Roland Burris plans a "listening tour" next week that will take him to several Illinois cities for the first time since his surpass appointment to the U.S. Senate.

The Democrat's schedule includes stops in Chicago, Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, Rockford and North Chicago. He plans to deliver speeches, meet with elected officials and talk to leaders in education, labor, the military and more.

Burris says he wants to hear the "hopes, priorities and concerns" on people's minds.

Burris was appointed to the Senate in December by embattled Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who was removed from office soon afterward. Burris filled the vacancy created by Barack Obama's move to the White House.