Dear John,

In this week's newsletter, honoring a hero, my meetings in DC, and more of my travels around the 16th District. If you need help with federal agencies, please reach out to one of my offices listed at the bottom of the newsletter.

Honoring a Hero

I was honored to present Michael Curry with the Presidential Unit Citation for his heroic service in the U.S. Navy and commitment to our nation. We were proud to host him and his loved ones in my Peoria office for this presentation.

The brave men and women who have served our country deserve our greatest admiration and gratitude for their sacrifices to protect our rights and ensure the United States remains a symbol of freedom around the globe.

Participating in the McLean County Tamil Sangam Celebration

Thanks to the McLean County Tamil Sangam Association for hosting me as the guest of honor for their celebration of Tamil culture and heritage in Normal. 

It was great to participate and learn more about their history and traditions!

Supporting our EMS Professionals

It was an honor to receive the 2024 Legislative Recognition Award from the American Ambulance Association.

As a member of the EMS Caucus, I will always support our emergency service personnel as they continue to provide life-saving services to protect the health and safety of our communities.

Visiting with Machesney Park Officials

I recently stopped by Machesney Park to meet with village officials, James Richter, Aaron Wilson, and Mayor Steve Johnson. 

I appreciate their efforts to better the community and look forward to continuing to work with them on critical issues like affordable housing and upgrading infrastructure.

My Work to Designate Route 66 a Historic Trail

I applaud the Committee on Natural Resource for unanimously passing my bill - the Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act - out of committee.

This bill would promote and preserve Route 66, which offers economic opportunities to many communities in Illinois' 16th Congressional District and along its 2,400-mile stretch.

Thanks to Representative Bruce Westerman for his leadership and collaboration on this important legislation!

Read more: LaHood’s Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act Passes Natural Resources Committee

Getting Ready for Thanksgiving

I’m proud to represent the Pumpkin Capital of the World - Morton, Illinois - where Libby’s Pumpkin is grown and canned! 

Thanks to Katie and Colby for swinging by my DC office with a can just in time for Thanksgiving!

The 2024 Fallen Heroes Tree of Honor Dedication Ceremony

It was a privilege to be a part of the 9th Annual Fallen Heroes Tree of Honor Dedication Ceremony this morning at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. 

We will never forget the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedoms, and must do all we can to support their Gold Star families.

Many thanks to Frances Maddox, Darin Funk, and John Morris for their work putting this incredible event together to honor Gold Star families and the loved ones they lost.

Meeting with the Society of American Florists

On Tuesday, I met with members of the Society of American Florists - including Bill LaFever of Rockford - to discuss the importance of renewing the GSP trade program. 

By renewing GSP, we can strengthen trade relations, expand market access, and provide a needed boost to the economy.

   One More Thing: Congratulations to Judge Hawley

Last week, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Judge Jonathan Hawley's appointment to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois.

Judge Hawley's distinguished legal and judicial career serving our community in Central Illinois makes him eminently qualified for the appointment to fill the vacancy in Peoria for the Central District of Illinois. I know that Judge Hawley has the temperament and respect for the rule of law to dutifully serve the Central District fairly, and I am pleased the Senate confirmed his appointment.

It is a privilege to serve the constituents of Illinois' 16th Congressional District. Thank you for subscribing to my newsletter. Please do not hesitate to reach out to one of my offices if we can ever be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Darin LaHood
Member of Congress