DeWitte Honors Local Veterans During Appreciation Event in St. Charles
I have always been proud to live in a community like St Charles, that consistently and conscientiously takes the time to honor our veterans, who left home and loved ones, to defend our constitution from aggressors at home and around the world. It was a privilege to attend the City of St. Charles’ Veterans Day remembrance ceremony last Tuesday morning. Several other communities across the 33rd District also held services honoring veterans last week, and I thank them all for hosting ceremonies that honor the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of our military.
Our veterans represent the very best of this nation. They are the men and women who put service before self, who stepped forward when their country called, and who have sacrificed their time, comfort, and in many cases their health, to protect the freedoms we often take for granted. Their courage has preserved the values and security that define America. We owe them a debt of gratitude we can never fully repay.
To all who have served, thank you. Thank you for your bravery, your sacrifice, and your unwavering commitment to protecting our nation. Your service ensures that future generations can live in freedom and opportunity. We honor you, we appreciate you, and we will never forget the sacrifices you and your families have made on behalf of us all.
DeWitte Tours Heritage Woods, Talks with Veterans on Veterans Day
After the service in St. Charles on Tuesday, I headed to South Elgin for a tour and great conversation with the staff and residents of Heritage Woods. I appreciated their time on a busy Veterans Day. I met a veteran who had served as a Navy Seal in Vietnam. He showed me pictures of his service days and we had a wonderful conversation. Thank you for your service!
U.S. Mint Ends Production of the Penny After More Than Two Centuries
After more than 230 years in circulation, the United States Mint has officially stopped producing the penny. The final one-cent coin was struck on November 12, 2025, at the Mint’s Philadelphia facility, marking the end of an era for America’s longest-running coin.
The penny was first authorized by Congress in 1792 and began circulating in 1793. Over the centuries, it has featured several designs, with President Abraham Lincoln appearing on the front since 1909. Over time, the makeup of the penny has changed, with it being made of 97.5 percent zinc and 2.5 percent copper since 1982.
Officials say production costs were a major factor in the decision. In recent years, it has cost nearly four cents to make each penny, far exceeding its face value. While new coins will no longer be produced, existing pennies will remain legal tender and continue to circulate for years to come.
Safety Reminders for Illinois Families This Thanksgiving
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I wanted to share some helpful tips to ensure that you and your family have a fun and safe holiday. The graphic also offers tips so our four-legged friends can also have a good Thanksgiving.
According to the American Red Cross, Thanksgiving and the day before are the top two days of the year for home cooking fires in the United States. Nationwide, cooking-related incidents cause an average of 158,400 home fires each year, accounting for 44 percent of all home fires. With millions of Americans preparing large holiday meals, the Red Cross warns that simple mistakes in the kitchen can quickly turn dangerous.
To help families stay safe this Thanksgiving, Illinoisans can follow these helpful cooking safety tips:
- Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
- Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
- Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
- Keep anything that can catch on fire — potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains — away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.
- Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
- Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.
- Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
- Check your smoke alarm batteries.
Following these precautions can help prevent kitchen accidents and reduce the likelihood of a holiday fire emergency.