Kankakee Times

State Rep. Tom Bennett (R-Gibson City) has used his time off from the legislature in Springfield to tour the 106th district and talk with his constituents about how they've been holding up as the state continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bennett wrote about his trip on his website.

"With the legislative session wrapped up for the year, I have had the opportunity to travel around the district visiting with our small business owners, first responders and community leaders to find out how they have been doing as we approach the end of the year," Bennett wrote on his website. "It is always good to hear their thoughts and concerns."

During his tour of the district, Bennett spoke with Carl and Marlene Shipman of Hoopeston who recently sold their Pizza King business after running it for four decades.

"They have touched the lives of many families in the community and beyond with great food and a wonderful place to catch up," Bennett wrote.

Bennett took time to have lunch with Watseka Fire Chief Kenneth Baier and firefighter Tom Sandeno to talk about the things that are impacting the state's first responders. 

"We had a great conversation about the issues affecting the fire service in particular and first responders in general," he said. "I appreciated their time and all that they and all of our firefighters do for our communities."

As part of his tour, Bennett also attended the Gibson Area Chamber lunch meeting.

Earlier this summer, Bennett urged Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D-IL) to help small businesses in Illinois reopen after the pandemic, according to the Kankakee Times.

The Kankakee Times also reported he honored Marvin Perzee, a civic leader, by designating May 20 Marvin Perzee County Fair Day in the Illinois State House of Representatives.