Carbondale Reporter

The last week was one of traditions for Illinois state Rep. Dave Severin.

For the third time in his political career, Severin (R-Benton) was sworn in to serve another term on Jan. 13 in the House of Representatives.

Over the weekend, the tradition continued when he presented Mary Powell with a certificate from the House of Representatives to recognize her birthday — something he has done for the past four years on her birthday.

This particular celebration was for Powell's 105 birthday.

Powell had a valid driver's license until she turned 102.

Severin asked Powell what suggestion she would offer to politicians today. Her reply Severin posted on Facebook was, "It would be great if they were interested in what's best for the people now what's best for themselves."

Entering his third term, Severin said he would continue to sponsor legislation to clean up corruption, strengthen ethics laws and restore public confidence in the government.

"I will also continue to stand up for our Constitutional rights while opposing attempts to spend money the state of Illinois does not have," he said in a Jan. 15 Facebook post.

Severin said lawmakers need to restore financial stability and acknowledged the state's situation and put an end to passing bills that are empty promises.

Severin was first sworn into the House in November 2016. He acknowledged the trust placed in him as he was once again sworn in to serve the 117th District, noting the state has come to a historical crossroads.

"I was in the House when Speaker Michael J. Madigan's (D-Chicago) nearly 40-year reign as Speaker ended," Severin said. "I also want to express my sincere congratulations to incoming House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch (D-Hillside). Speaker Welch will serve as Illinois' first African American House Speaker, a significant historical change that I hope begins a new era of politics and cooperation in Illinois."