Senator DeWitte Makes Special Deliveries at Sherman Hospital During Nurses Week
Last week was National Nurses Appreciation Week and hospitals across the country took steps to make sure their nurses knew they were valued and appreciated. As has become a tradition in the 33rd Senate District, on the last day of Nurses Appreciation Week my staff and I were up early and we met the nurses at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin and gave them treats and flowers. We were able to see the night shift nurses as they were leaving, and the day shift nurses as they were arriving.
Nurses are frontline healthcare heroes who work long hours to help keep us healthy. It was an absolute pleasure to thank them personally during Nurses Appreciation Week. Click here to view a short video highlighting the special day.
Sen. DeWitte, Rep. Ugaste to Host Mobile DMV Event on May 17
Just a reminder that State Representative Ugaste and I are partnering with a mobile team from the Secretary of State’s office for a Mobile DMV event on Friday, May 17 from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM in Elburn. The appointment schedule is filling up, so do not delay if you want to participate.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT AND WALK-INS CANNOT BE SERVED.
To register you can use the QR code at the bottom of the flyer to the left or you can go to https://repugaste.com/rep-ugaste-mobile-dmv/ . If you have difficulty registering, please call my district office for assistance at (847)-214-8245.
Appointments for this event are expected to fill up quickly so do not delay in registering for your appointment. Please visit realid.ilsos.gov to see a list of the required documents you will need if you want to obtain a REAL ID.
ISAC Provides Free FASFA Help for Students
High school students can access valuable resources to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
The FAFSA form is an application process that determines how much federal financial aid a student is eligible to receive, which could include grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans.
ISAC aims to ensure that every student, especially high school seniors navigating the challenges of FAFSA, is aware of the free assistance available for financial aid and college planning. It’s important for students intending to pursue post-high school education this fall to know that there is still time to apply for financial aid.
Students can visit ISAC’s website for free assistance with the college planning and financial aid process—including help completing the FAFSA or Alternative Application for IL Financial Aid.
DeWitte to Host Household Cleaning Product and Toiletry Drive
The St. Charles (Tri-City) Salvation Army and Food for Greater Elgin have both expressed a need to replenish supplies of household cleaning products and toiletries for those who rely on the pantries for services. During the week of May 20-24, my two offices will serve as drop-off locations for donated items.
The 33rd Senate District community always donates generously to those in need, and I am hoping to have wide participation in this event. Both offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:30-4:30.
West Dundee Office
641 South 8th Street
West Dundee
St. Charles Office
406 Surrey Woods Drive, Suite A
St. Charles
Senate Moves to Formally Recognize Space Force as Official Military Branch
The Illinois Senate recently advanced legislation to formally recognize the United States Space Force as an official branch of the United States Armed Forces. House Bill 5640 changes state law to include the Space Force wherever the Armed Forces are mentioned.
The United States Space Force, established on December 20, 2019, is designated as an armed force within the Department of the Air Force. The Space Force’s mission is to ensure the U.S. can operate freely in space, manage space operations, and protect American interests.
This legislation passed out of the Senate Veteran Affairs Committee unanimously on May 2 and now advances to the Senate floor for further action.
Law Enforcement Appreciation Month
In observance of Law Enforcement Appreciation Month this May, the Illinois State Police, together with law enforcement agencies across the state, are honoring the dedication and sacrifices of police officers.
This annual month of recognition was created to unite in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, to honor current and former officers, and to extend support to law enforcement personnel and their families. It’s also an occasion for citizens to express gratitude to the dedicated individuals who safeguard our communities while facing the inherent risks of police work.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, law enforcement ranks consistently among the top ten most hazardous jobs in the United States. In 2021 alone, the nation mourned the loss of 159 officers, with approximately 40% of fatalities resulting from assaults or homicides and another 40% from transportation incidents.
Throughout the month, the Illinois State Police will be active on social media, sharing images and posts from various events designed to celebrate and recognize the brave men and women in law enforcement.