State Rep. Ladisch Douglass Highlights Tour of Illinois, Emphasizes Importance of Understanding Shared Issues in Every Community

WESTMONT, Ill. – As part of efforts to better understand the issues impacting all Illinois residents, State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, recently took a family tour across Illinois to see firsthand the shared and unique challenges and opportunities facing communities across the state.

“In an era of division and isolation, it’s important to visit unfamiliar areas to gain appreciation and a better, more informed perspective,” Ladisch Douglass said. “The decisions we make in Springfield impact every corner of the state, and this trip was a wonderful opportunity to engage residents, hear their stories and build a better understanding of the common issues we face – such as improving infrastructure, supporting classrooms, and increasing access to food and health care.”

Over a period of two weeks, Ladisch Douglass and her family visited numerous communities, from the state’s southern tip of Cairo to Joliet. In addition to viewing historic sites that tell the state’s history, Ladisch Douglass engaged local residents, businesses and organizations. Stops along the journey included:

• Fabyan Windmill (Batavia)
• Camp Hunt (Ottawa)
• The Rootbeer Stand (Oglesby)
• State Farm Research and Development Center (Bloomington)
• Joliet Iron Works Historic Site (Joliet)
• ASIP Local 150 Training Center (Wilmington)
• Rivian (Normal)
• Lincoln’s Tomb (Springfield)
• Tiger Fiber (Sauget)
• Fountain Creek Limestone Arch Bridge (Waterloo)
• Holy Cross Lutheran Church (Waterloo)
• Fort de Chartres (Prairie du Rocher)
• Fort Kaskaskia (Ellis Grove)
• Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial (Kaskaskia)
• Mary’s River Covered Bridge (Chester)
• Popeye Statues (Chester)
• Rockwood Trading Post (Rockwood)
• Inspiration Point Trailhead (Wolf Lake)
• Peachbarn Winery and Café (Alto Pass)
• Bald Knob Cross of Peace (Alto Pass)
• Trail of Tears (IL 146)
• Fort Defiance State Park (Cairo)
• Warren-Henderson Farm Bureau (Monmouth)
• ComEd Switching Station (Joliet)

“Illinois succeeds when every region and every community succeeds,” Ladisch Douglass said. “This was an excellent trip for my family, and I encourage others to travel and spend some time discovering the countless treasures around our state. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something you enjoy.”

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com.