Kankakee Times

In a Facebook post on May 16, Illinois State Sen. Thomas M. Bennett said he was pleased to speak at the recent meeting of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in Bloomington. He praised the organization's commitment to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and ensuring America's future through enhanced education.

"Thank you for the invitation to speak to the Daughters of the American Revolution at the Doubletree in Bloomington," Bennett said. "Glad to join Rep (Dennis) Tipsword at this great event. Wonderful turnout! DAR is a special organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education! Thank you for all you do! We need you."

The DAR traces its origins back to October 11, 1890. It was founded to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the men and women who achieved American Independence, educate Americans about the Revolution, and "to cherish, maintain, and extend the institutions of American freedom, to foster true patriotism and love of country, and to aid in securing for mankind all the blessings of liberty," its website says.

Bennett was appointed to fill the seat of outgoing Sen. Jason Barickman in 2023. Barickman stepped down in December 2022. 

In related news, The Rochelle News-Leader reported that Zalak Patel received one of 10 ILDAR general scholarships that are available to students who will be attending a college or university in Illinois. These scholarships are exclusively available to students who will be attending colleges or universities in Illinois. The amount of the scholarship is $1,000.  

Applications for ILDAR chapter scholarships must be submitted each year by Feb. 1 to a sponsoring DAR Chapter. Full information is available on the ILDAR website.