Kane County Reporter

Senator Don DeWitte attended a Veterans Day remembrance ceremony in St. Charles last week, joining local residents in honoring military veterans from the community and across the 33rd District. Other communities within the district also held ceremonies to recognize those who have served.

"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," DeWitte said.

He added: "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."

DeWitte continued: "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."

Following his attendance at the St. Charles event on Tuesday morning, DeWitte visited Heritage Woods in South Elgin where he spoke with staff members as well as residents including a Vietnam-era Navy SEAL veteran.

"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!" DeWitte said.

In other news shared by DeWitte’s office this week, it was announced that after more than two centuries in circulation since being authorized by Congress in 1792—and featuring President Abraham Lincoln since 1909—the United States Mint has ended production of pennies as of November 12 at its Philadelphia facility due to high production costs exceeding face value.

Officials noted that although new pennies will no longer be produced because each one cost nearly four cents to manufacture—well above its one-cent value—existing coins will remain legal tender.

Ahead of Thanksgiving celebrations later this month, DeWitte provided safety reminders based on American Red Cross data showing Thanksgiving is among top days nationally for cooking-related house fires—with an average of over 158,000 incidents annually attributed mostly to kitchen accidents during holiday meal preparations.

He advised Illinoisans preparing meals during Thanksgiving holidays to stay attentive while cooking; avoid loose clothing; keep flammable items away from heat sources; regularly clean surfaces; keep children or pets clear from cooking areas; check smoke alarms; use timers; consider fire extinguishers; turn off appliances when leaving or going to bed—all measures intended to reduce risks associated with holiday kitchen fires.

DeWitte is currently serving as State Senator representing Illinois' 33rd Senate District after being elected in 2018 as a Republican succeeding Karen McConnaughay.