Dear Neighbor,

It’s been such a busy month since the end of session. Being back home in our district is the best part of my job! I get to meet so many people, learn more about the great communities I represent, and knock door to door to connect with my constituents.

I want to share a few stories from the doors since it’s the one-on-one touches that often stick with me the most. A few years ago when I was first running for this role, I knocked on the door of a man who was getting ready to go in for a stem cell transplant. That day we talked about his hopes and optimism for the future despite all that he was going through. Recently I knocked on his door again and learned that he is in remission! It was like a homecoming to see his smile and greet each other. I was pleased that he remembered me, because I had not forgotten about him over the last few years.

During my walk, I also met a mom with 4 daughters who took the door knock as an opportunity to teach her girls about what a State Rep does. While on the spot, I felt good that I had an answer, especially one that might inspire a young person to also run for office one day. I went back the next day to bring them a handbook that contains additional information about how the Illinois State Government runs. If you’re interested in getting a free copy of the Government Handbook, please reach out to my office directly.

On that same block, a family was getting ready for a huge wedding with many out-of-town guests. Another door refused my literature after learning I was a democrat. While they may not want to talk to me, I’m here ready to serve them with a smile should they ever need my offices’ services. That is how a representative government works.

I look forward to seeing all of you out and about as the summer sees more of us outdoors.

Sincerely, Suzanne

TEACHER APPRECIATION MONTH

Our teachers have the important task of educating and guiding our students, and in this way, they shape our society’s future. We are so grateful for all that you, especially over the last several years in the face of the pandemic.

McHenry County Educator of the Year Awards
I was proud to attend the McHenry County Educator of the Year Awards Dinner alongside McHenry County Board Member Kelli Wegener.

Teacher Appreciation at Canterbury Elementary School
My staff and I dropped off donuts and coffee from local favorite Country Donuts at Canterbury Elementary School in Crystal Lake to show our appreciation for teachers and faculty. Each month we’ll randomly select a D66-based school to celebrate!

If you are interested in donating gift cards, food, coffee, or thank you notes for our monthly teacher appreciation events, please email us directly at info@repsnessil66.com.

MAY RECAP

Northern Illinois Special Recreation

I had the opportunity to tour Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) in Crystal Lake and learn about all of the incredible resources and programming they provide for people living with disabilities in our community. Their cooperative model relies on partnerships with Park Districts across McHenry & Kane County, which is key to their innovation and service.

End of Session Town Hall

Thank you to those who attended our End of Session Town Hall at the Community Foundation for McHenry County.

Habitat for Humanity Women’s Build

My staff and I had an awesome day participating in Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley’s Women’s Build in Carpentersville. Thank you to the incredible Habitat Volunteers & Staff who do so much to support families in our community.

Naturally McHenry County Tour

The team at Naturally McHenry County took me on a tour of some incredible spots in District 66. Thank you to Lincoln Farmstead, Tom’s Farm Market, and UpRising Bakery and Cafe for having me.

Girls on the Run

I absolutely LOVED spending time with Girls on the Run NW Illinois! I had the honor of giving a quick pep talk, handing out medals, and even running in the 5K.

Clearbrook Legislative Tour

I had the opportunity to attend a Legislative Tour at Clearbrook alongside State Representative Lindsey LaPointe. We visited their new Community Mental Health Center, The Commons (an intermediate care facility), and a Community Integrated Living Arrangement Home (CILA).

Thank you to the wonderful team at Clearbrook for graciously opening their doors for us and fiercely advocating for people living with disabilities in Illinois.

McHenry County CASA Tour

I met with the CASA of McHenry County to learn about the instrumental role they play in the lives of children who are navigating the child welfare system.

Intern Insights: John Lim, Spring 2022

“Rep. Ness’ office was a wonderful internship opportunity. I was welcomed warmly, treated well, and given meaningful work. I learned things that never really came to mind when I thought of elected officials – such as the distinction and separation between state offices and political work, the role we play in connecting constituents to free community resources, or even the redrawing of district boundaries from census data. I attended many community events and loved talking with other constituents and seeing people smile. I love the way Suzanne interacts with the community she serves.

In my time at Rep. Ness’ office, I wrote and researched for issues I grew to be more passionate about. I worked on projects for issues ranging from anti-weight discrimination and work place accommodations, to ending youth solitary confinement, to improving Illinois land quality with greater support given to conservation districts. I felt fulfilled helping make a difference. Suzanne Ness’ office has inspired me to do better, even after the conclusion of my internship.“

John graduated from McHenry County College in May of 2022 with his Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies. John plans to attend a 4-year university in the fall while working as a paralegal professional. Our team is so grateful for John’s contribution to the office and wish him well in this exciting next stage of his life!

Photo Caption (LEFT): John at the Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce’s Home + Business Expo
Photo Caption (RIGHT): John + Rep. Ness out meeting constituents

June’s Adoptable Pet of The Month – Asha

Each month, we’ll be sharing an ‘Adoptable Pet of the Month’ in our newsletter to promote a pet who is looking for their forever home! Thank you to District 66-based Hoof Woof and Meow Animal Rescue for partnering with us!

2.5 year old Asha is a lab mix that warms up quickly to new people and loves to play fetch. She’s active and intelligent – knowing several commands she’s proud to perform for treats. Asha sleeps soundly through the night in her crate and tolerates being crated for periods throughout the day, although given the choice, she’ll happily stay by the side of her family members. She’s continuing to work on her leash training skills and requires an adopter who will continue this. Asha comes with 1 or 2 FREE training sessions at our trainer’s house in Algonquin. She would love a family with older children who would enjoy playing ball with her. A family with a dog that matches her energy and loves to play would be ideal, but she would also love to be a single dog. A home with a fenced yard would be preferred, but an active family with no fence would be considered. A home filled with squeaky toys, her beloved elk antlers and lots of gentle hands to rub her silky golden coat would be her dream come true. She weighs about 45 lbs.

Her adoption fee is $350. Please email adopt@hoofwoofmeow.org with any questions. You can find out adoption procedures and application on our website – www.hoofwoofmeow.org

Click here to fill out an application or to learn more about our other adoptable pets!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Crystal Lake Public Library
Wednesday, June 1st
10 AM – 12 PM
126 W. Paddock St.
Crystal Lake, IL 60014

Huntley Area Public Library
Monday, July 11th
10 AM – 12 PM
11000 Ruth Rd.
Huntley, IL 60142

Rep. Ness will be hosting mobile office hour events near you!
Constituents are welcome to walk in or schedule an appointment with our office ahead of time at: info@repsnessil66.com or call 224-484-8620.
Stop by to say hello, share ideas or concerns, and ask questions!

Learn More Here

Fox River Valley Library District’s
Summer Reading Kick Off
East Dundee Library Front Lawn
Saturday, June 4th
1 PM – 4 PM

Be sure to stop by our booth!

Learn More Here