Metro East Sun

Earlier this week, State Representative Kevin Schmidt engaged with various community members and businesses in the 114th District during his "Day in The District" tour. The event aimed to connect with business owners, grade school students, food pantry volunteers, and constituents attending his Citizens Utility Board (CUB) event.

Rep. Schmidt first visited Holy Childhood of Jesus Catholic School in Mascoutah. While there, he interacted with students and read them "Daisy-A True Story of a Brave Duck," a book by Freeburg native Barbara Brueggemann, illustrated by Erika Borowski. "We donated the book to the classroom and gave each student a State of Illinois Activity book," said Schmidt.

His second visit was to Betty Ann Market, a family-owned business with a history dating back to 1930 when Ben Norrenberns opened the Norrenberns Meat Market in Albers, Illinois. The current store, located in Mascoutah, remains focused on community values, offering services such as catering and floral arrangements. The business is presently involved in store upgrades in collaboration with local union workers.

Schmidt awarded Wisper ISP with a certificate honoring them as his "Business of The Month" in the district. Founded by CEO Nathan Stooke, the company started from humble beginnings and now operates across six states. "Wisper employs more than 200 people and has grown to service more than 20,000 subscribers," noted Schmidt during the visit.

At the Mascoutah Food Pantry, Rep. Schmidt recognized the efforts of volunteers providing free food and hygiene items to those in need. "These ladies work hard to help families in need," Schmidt stated, emphasizing the importance of the pantry's service to the community.

The day concluded with a Citizens Utility Board (CUB) event at the O’Fallon Public Library. The event aimed to help residents find ways to save money on utilities. "A CUB specialist reviews your gas, electric, and telecom bills," Rep. Schmidt explained, noting the success and benefit of the event for attendees.

Rep. Schmidt encourages nominations for local businesses to be recognized as the Business of the Month. Nominations will be acknowledged on his social media, website, and through local media.