Kankakee Times

State Representative Jackie Haas provided an update on recent activities and upcoming events in Illinois’ 79th District. In her August message, Haas highlighted the busy month of July, which included participation in community celebrations, business openings, and outreach initiatives.

Haas noted her office’s involvement in several local events. She attended the Kankakee Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Fourth of July celebration and welcomed new businesses such as Culver’s and Crumbl Cookies to Bradley during their ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Her office also participated in the Cities United 2025 Leading the Way Tour, a national effort focused on ending gun violence through collaboration with organizations and youth leaders.

Other community engagements included attending the Monee Parks and Recreation Senior Fair, celebrating the opening of Kankakee County Housing Authority’s West Harbour Residences, supporting Park Forest Youth Day by distributing school supplies collected from a district-wide drive, and joining festivities at the Merchant Street Music Fest in Kankakee.

Haas recognized FastSigns of Kankakee as her July Local Business Spotlight for its commitment to customer service and job creation. "I am thrilled to recognize FastSigns of Kankakee for my July Local Business Spotlight because of their outstanding commitment to customer service and job creation. They’ve grown their business with a people-first approach and continue creating good-paying local jobs," she stated. The business is owned by Dave and Sonya Comer, who have expanded staff since taking over operations.

The representative also promoted upcoming events hosted by her office. A blood drive will be held on August 13 at Village of Monee Parks & Recreation with advanced reservations recommended. Office hours are scheduled for August 20 at Monee Village Hall and August 28 at Park Forest Public Library.

Haas encouraged students from kindergarten through fifth grade to participate in her annual summer reading program before August 15. Students who complete ten or more books will be invited to an ice cream party and certificate ceremony later this summer.

Additionally, residents can request free passes to Chicago museums through Haas’ Museum Resource Card Request Form available via her office.

Haas concluded by inviting constituents to contact her district office with questions or concerns.

Haas was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 79th House District in 2020, succeeding Lindsay Parkhurst.