Departing Bond honored in Senate

SPRINGFIELD — The Senate said goodbye to Sen. Michael Bond Tuesday, but many of his colleagues believe it won't be long until they say hello again.

The Grayslake Democrat served his last full day in the Senate Tuesday. Suzi Schmidt, a Lake Villa Republican, is set to take over after she defeated Bond in November's elections.

Bond's fellow Democrats praised his technical wizardry on the campaign trail and his ability to explain complex legislation in simple terms.

Sen. Terry Link, a Waukegan Democrat, said he would not be surprised to see Bond walk into the Senate chamber again.

“He just may be back here joining us again,” Link said. “But until that time comes ... I hope he remembers that this is home and Lake County is home.”

Bond said that seeing the democratic process up close was a fascinating and rewarding experience.

“This has been a truly enriching four years,” Bond said. “This is a truly special place.”