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Wednesday • April 16, 2025 INSIDE THIS ISSUE - GAMES & PUZZLES - PAGE 6
One Month Out From REAL ID Enforcement Date, Giannoulias Lays Out the Facts With 30 days left until the REAL ID enforcement date takes effect on May 7, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias wants Illinoisans to get the facts about REAL IDs as many scramble to get one. “The federal REAL ID rollout has caused a great deal of confusion across the country, including here in Illinois,” Giannoulias said. “We’re monitoring REAL ID demand and adjusting our services to efficiently accommodate the unprecedented surge.” Giannoulias noted if you’re not traveling after May 7, you probably don’t need a REAL ID right away. Given the recent surge at Illinois DMVs, Giannoulias advised Illinoisans who don’t need a REAL ID in May to consider holding off to avoid waits at facilities. He added that the May 7 “deadline” isn’t really a deadline. On May 7, Americans will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or ID, or a valid passport, to board a domestic flight; however, DMVs will continue to issue REAL IDs after May 7. He also announced the office is extending its REAL ID Saturdays program until the end of May to provide more options to get one. Before visiting a DMV to get a REAL ID, Giannoulias urged residents to confirm that they actually need one. The Secretary of State’s office is proactively raising awareness about REAL IDs through its dedicated portal, realid.ilsos.gov. The portal makes it easy for Illinoisans to determine: 1) if they need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and 2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near them. Most important, REAL IDs are not mandatory for driving a vehicle or required for valid identification or proof of citizenship. The primary reason for Illinoisans over the age of 18 to obtain a REAL ID is to fly domestically on a commercial
aircraft or visit certain federal facilities, such as a military base or federal courthouse, as of May 7th. Individuals who have a valid U.S. passport, a passport issued by another country or a permanent resident card – and those under the age of 18 – will not need a REAL ID. To meet the demand, the Secretary of State’s office has expanded service across Illinois with a new REAL ID Supercenter in Chicago’s Loop and the REAL ID Saturdays program offering weekend hours statewide through May 31. Visit realid.ilsos.gov to learn more. The office’s expanded REAL ID service processed over 450,000 REAL ID applications between February and March of 2025. Individuals applying for a REAL ID must do so inperson at an Illinois DMV and are required to present: 1. A U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Naturalization Certificate, Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card or a foreign passport with an approved I-94 form is also acceptable. If you’ve changed your name, you’ll need to provide name change documents. 2. Proof of a full Social Security number (SSN). Examples include: a Social Security card, a W-2 or a pay stub with your full SSN. 3. Two current residency documents that list your full name. Examples include a utility bill, rental agreement, deed/title or a bank statement. 4. Proof of your signature. Examples include: a signed credit or debit card, canceled check, or current state driver’s license or state ID. Illinois residents can go online to access an interactive checklist to make sure they have the documents they need before heading to a DMV.
Military Women’s Memorial Celebrates Contributions by Daughters of the American Revolution Totaling $1 Million in Support of Preserving Stories of Women Servicemembers ARLINGTON, Va. – The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Military Women’s Memorial (MWM) proudly announce that the longstanding commitment by the DAR to support MWM’s mission to honor and tell the stories of women who serve our nation has recently reached a cumulative total of $1 million in contributions to the Memorial. The announcement of this milestone support during Women’s History Month underscores the significance of the decadeslong collaboration between the two women’s organizations in their dedication to preserving history, honoring military service, and promoting patriotism. DAR’s most recent donations will support a stateof-the-art gallery renovation at the Military Women’s Memorial including sponsorship of the future Defending a New Nation Gallery. This gallery will highlight women in the military from the nation’s founding through the 19th century, reflecting the evolving role of women in American society. The revitalized visitor experience and exhibition spaces will incorporate the latest technologies and interactive displays telling the stories of women who have served our nation through the Armed Forces. “DAR is honored to be a longstanding supporter of the Military Women’s Memorial to celebrate and preserve the remarkable stories of America’s servicewomen,” said Pamela Rouse Wright, DAR President General. “From the Revolutionary War to today, women have played critical roles in our nation’s defense. By sponsoring the Defending a New Nation Gallery, DAR reaffirms its commitment to ensuring their legacies endure.” DAR has been a steadfast supporter of the Military Women’s Memorial since its inception, supporting and participating in key MWM events, including the Memorial’s
dedication in 1997. This latest commitment builds on that legacy, reinforcing DAR’s deep investment in preserving the stories of America’s servicewomen. Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women’s Memorial, expressed gratitude for DAR’s support. “This extraordinary and enduring commitment from the DAR enables us to further our mission of honoring the women who have served with courage and dedication. DAR’s support will highlight the earliest contributions of women in the military, a history too often overlooked.” The Military Women’s Memorial efforts align with DAR’s mission to commemorate those who secured American independence and to recognize the ongoing contributions of servicemembers throughout history—values the DAR has upheld since its founding in 1890. The Military Women’s Memorial has begun an important campaign to revitalize its historic landmark that sits just outside the gates of Arlington National Cemetery. The renovation will introduce an enhanced visitor experience featuring new exhibits, digital engagement, immersive media, and interactive programs. With DAR’s generous support, MWM moves one step closer to bringing its planned renovation to fruition while supporting its current exhibits and programs. The Military Women’s Memorial aims to relaunch the renovated galleries in the fall of 2027 in honor of its 30th anniversary. To capture more recent memories and to continue to build the MWM’s robust archives, organizers also encourage any women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces to share their stories and experiences through the MWM Register. For more than 30 years, the Memorial has been permanently documenting military women’s experiences and their impact on American, military and women’s history. Registration is free.
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